Fast Changeovers: The Story Of My Life!

Anyone who has experienced the kind of magic that happens in the hair and makeup trailers can relate to this. It usually sounds something like my everyday life …

ME: I need 1 hour to get them ready.

CREW: 1hr?? Can you do it in 45 mins?…

ME: I can try but I’m letting you know it usually takes a full 1 hour.

CREW: Okay thanks, anything quicker will help.

ME: Okay you know we always do everything we can to get it done as fast as we can.

*CUT TO: THE DAY OF *

(AFTER 30 MINS IN MY CHAIR)

CREW: We need them now!! Now!!

It never fails! That’s just one example, I could give so many. Usually, we are asked to literally make the impossible happen. I always say,

“HMMMM LET ME SEE WHAT I HAVE IN MY MARY POPPINS BAG TO PULL THAT OFF”.

Sometimes I walk away from quick changeovers not knowing how I got it done…..Complete MAGIC! Just remember you are not the only one out there going through it. No matter the tier of the show or movie, you’re always getting pressure to go faster. And I completely understand. When you break down the finances and understand how much a minute is worth it’s outrageous. But at the same time, don’t be afraid to put your foot down and say no. There are so many other ways they can tighten up their time and they don’t. We shouldn’t let our work or the actors suffer because we are the easy targets. Don’t abuse this but if you can’t do it in under 1 hour don’t agree to it. It sets a tone for our industry and they start expecting it from all of us and in return makes us put out shit work.

LIFE FACT: EVERY ACTION EACH ONE OF US TAKES IN THE BUSINESS IS SETTING THE TONE FOR THE REST.

Let’s always remember that and always be thinking of the bigger, long-term picture to help each other out. If we get done quicker than our estimate, GREAT, you look like a hero. But don’t underestimate yourself, you’ll look way worse and gain that reputation.