Sure, being a makeup artist is fun, but if you'd prefer to be your own boss, freelancing is the way to go. Freelance makeup artists are 100 percent in charge of their income potential, which is limited only by the ability to generate enough business. Becoming a successful freelance makeup artist takes hard work, long hours and a ton of advertising. If you are up for the challenge of creating a successful career in freelance makeup artistry but don't quite know where to start, you'll be glad to hear that the first steps mimic those of most small business entrepreneurs. Instructions 1 Build a portfolio. Your portfolio is your resume in the freelance makeup artist business. You don't need years of experience to develop an impressive makeup artist portfolio; you need talent and models. Find your makeup models by volunteering at local fashion shows and photo shoots. Since fashion shows typically employ the services of several models, you c