How do freelance make-up artists go about finding work?

I am seriously considering a career as a make-up artist. To work on film + tv programmes as well as fashion shows + photoshoots. I plan on taking a course as I am a complete beginner. But I'd like to know, if any of you are in this field, how do you go about getting work? Are there agencies out there? Or just making contacts somehow? How do you do it?How do freelance make-up artists go about finding work?
I have a makeup artist for 20yrs. I have freelanced with photographers, fashion shows, all that you mention. I started out and tell everyone who is interested to go to a department store and apply for a cosmetics position. You will make great conatacts, the companies will train you for free and you will learn everything about the industry. You will have to a lot of foot workto do, Have a portfolio, go to modeling agencies with cards, find out what 1/2day and full day rates are for your area, be dilligent, on time, and professional. Most photographers will ask you to do more than just makeup,like hair and styling with clothes,ect... It will be a lot of who you know.This is why I say to get into the cosmetics departments. Not only will you learn but you will make money as well. Many of makeup artists in the departments moonlight with freelance until they make a name for themselves.How do freelance make-up artists go about finding work?
Go to the high school hang-outs around prom time and homecomming alot of those girls needs someone to help them with their make-up. Let them know that you can help and voila thats that.
by word of mouth. friends, friends of friends and so on. start making contacts that way.