"How can I find a job as a makeup artist? I look online and in the classifieds, but I can never find anything about actually doing makeup professionally."
You will see ads for makeup artists in industry publications like Backstage, and sometimes on community message boards like craigslist.org, but you're right, it's rare to see a listing in the general classifieds for a makeup artist. That's not because there's a lack of work for makeup artists, but rather because the people and industries that need to hire them are already plugged into the makeup artist community, and know how to find one without casting such a wide net. Professional makeup artists establish relationships with production companies, photographers, editors, agents, stylists and other makeup artists. Jobs can come through any combination of word-of-mouth recommendation, networking, connections, professional representation and savvy self-promotion. If you are good, you will be known and sought-after.
Don't worry, there's lots of work out there! The better question is: How do I get to that point as a makeup artist?
Assuming you've had proper training, start putting together a resume and a portfolio. When assembling a portfolio, get a professional book and fill it with high-quality images shot by an experienced photographer. Your portfolio is the tool that will get you paying work, so make sure your prints are top-notch. In order to really flesh out your portfolio, you will probably have to take on some non-paying gigs on projects like student films and independent print publications. You're not making money yet, but these jobs can be great opportunities to meet people and get your foot in the door.
A lot of makeup artists get their starts at retail makeup counters. Makeup counter work is a good way to practice and meet potential clients, and you'll be well paid too. If you think you would like to work at a makeup counter, go to places like Macy's and Sephora with your resume and portfolio. It's always best to speak to someone in person to introduce yourself and find out their hiring requirements.
You can also contact production companies and photographers to see if they're looking for new makeup artists to work with. Try to snag an apprenticeship with an established makeup artist – this will open so many doors for you. Successful makeup artists here in New York City are often searching for assistants during Fashion Week, which occurs biannually. Interviewing with these artists well ahead of their busy seasons can put you at the head of the pack (you can contact established makeup artists off the Web, and there are also agencies that represent professional makeup artists). Additional sources for locating makeup artists, agents and production companies are the books Le Book and the Black Book Creative Industry Directory. Online, try fashionbook.com and fashion.net.
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