Every photographer or videographer at a point in their carrier was once a freelancer before they eventually set out to be on their own. Choosing to become a freelancer is a very difficult decision in one’s career because at a point you will want to settle down to have your own startup.
I will be sharing with you the pros and cons of being a freelance photographer and videographer.
THE CONS
RUSH EDIT AND DELIVERY: This is one of the challenges photographers face even much more worse with freelancers, most clients don’t know that it takes a lot to edit images. I just concluded a shoot some hours ago and the client is already on my neck to send the images to them and I was trying to explain that it might take a little while which would be the next day before I can send the images. This directly puts pressure on the photographer to edit as fast as possible to meet unrealistic demands or deadlines just to satisfy a client. Every freelance photographer should state a disclaimer on when to deliver work to the client in an agreement.
PAYMENT DELAY: This has always been an issue between a freelancer and the client. Most clients or companies defy the terms and conditions given by the freelancer which influences the output of the photographer. Again clients or companies would not respect or value you as a creative to pay the fee for the service rendered.
EXPLOITATION: As a freelancer in whatever field you find yourself in, you will be exploited by clients, friends, and family. I have been a victim of clients who call me and request I take their pictures for just two hours and that only a few people will be at the shoot. When I got to the venue I saw hundreds of people and I had to photograph every one of them, leaving me to spend over four hours as opposed to the initial two hours planned for the shoot. Annoyingly, I was not compensated for the extra time spent. This literally the most annoying thing when it comes to freelancing.
THE PROS
CONVENIENT HOUR: It is very difficult to get a freelance job or a boss that will allow you to work at your own free time. There’s no freedom to work at one’s best time which can be very difficult. The freedom to travel and work on the move is usually an option. Usually, most times you decide where it is convenient for you to work. For me I found myself going to the restaurant or cafe where I pay for the internet to research what to write or to edit my images.
POTENTIAL: As a freelance photographer or videographer you have the opportunity to make extra income for yourself. If you compare yourself or research on those who work 9-5 hours, you will discover that you’re earning more than they do if not double of their income a month.
COUNTLESS OPPORTUNITIES: There are numerous opportunities that come with working as a freelancer. These opportunities allow you to network and expand your business and allow you to put more into your craft only if you explore the possibilities.
