Joining a Film Union · IATSE
Hair & Makeup: how to join IATSE
Hair and makeup create and maintain every look on camera, from clean beauty to prosthetics and blood. It's an IATSE craft local, Local 706 in Los Angeles, joined with documented days, a kit, and references.
Good to know
In Los Angeles it is the Make-Up Artists and Hair Stylists Guild, IATSE Local 706, and hair and makeup are distinct classifications inside it, so you roster on the one you actually work. Beyond documented days you will need a real working kit and references, since department heads hire on trust and a portfolio.
Roles in this craft
The jobs that make up this craft, each with its own page on pay, the day-to-day, and how to break in.
How to join, step by step
Know your union
- In LA it is the Make-Up Artists and Hair Stylists Guild, IATSE Local 706.
- Hair and makeup are distinct classifications: you roster on the one you work.
Build a kit and a book
- A real working kit and a strong portfolio are non-negotiable.
- Beauty, character, and prosthetics are different specialties: build the one you will sell.
Work covered days
- In LA, covered days register through Contract Services; elsewhere, apply to the local.
- Non-union film, TV, and commercials are where you build days and references.
Roster and join
- Documented days plus references put you on the roster to join Local 706.
- Department heads hire on trust: keep the relationships warm.
What you’ll need
- Documented workdays: call sheets and pay stubs from every show
- References (Georgia's 479 wants four; two from active members)
- Application + initiation funds (479: about $100 + $1,400)
- Residency proof where required (479: about 18 months in GA/AL)
Find your local
IATSE membership runs through a local for your market. Look up the one that covers where you work on the union’s site.