Special effects makeup is the process of applying things like prosthetics, life casting, body paint, moulding among other things to transform the subject into character. This application is used to create some of the most famous Television and Film characters.

Special effects is a tool that has been used for decades and it was Lon Chaney who pioneered this type of application back in the 1920s. He created his own special effects makeup to help him transform into character.

So how does special effects makeup help the actor get into character? To put it simply it helps them get into character. Special effects makeup and hair is used to create a character or elements of the character without it needing to be true to who they are normally. For example it could be as simple as creating an open wound for an action character. Or as extravagant as turning them into a totally different looking person from who they are, like an older character on a younger actor or an out of this world creature or monster. This transformation is all part of the routine of getting into character and making an actor feel like they are ready to immerse themselves in the role they are playing.

IMAGE COURTESY OF AACM https://aacm.edu.au/ STUDENTS

IMAGE COURTESY OF AACM https://aacm.edu.au/ STUDENTS

As budgets for film and TV grow, so do special effects makeup techniques. Today we see performance capture technology and visual effects combined with special effects makeup to provide a truly amazing transformation on screen.

You can learn all about the evolution of special effects makeup and gain skills in how to apply through various techniques by undertaking a diploma of screen and media course. The diploma of screen & media in specialist makeup services, covers makeup and hair for film, television, fashion, editorial and special effects and is one of the highest qualifications you can receive in Australia. It gives students all the skills they need to start working right after they graduate. It is an exciting career path that can take you into the world of screen, media or fashion. You can find a screen and media course in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and all other major cities in Australia.