Why You SHOULD Work for Free as an Artist
For those of you who clicked on this post thinking WTF, we’re with you! It’s a complicated topic that’s hard to navigate in any industry.
In our latest YouTube video which you can watch here, we spoke with Adam Vicarel on when artists should and shouldn’t work for free.
When You Shouldn’t Work for Free as an Artist
If a client is the one starting the conversation about working for free or says the word “exposure”, this is a red flag.
You should be the one to start the conversation with a client because you’re the one bringing the value and solving a problem for them.
We recommend avoiding working with clients who ask for free work right off the bat.
Working for Free as an Artist
There’s a lot to consider and factor into your decision about working for free. Let’s talk about a few reasons you may consider working at a lower rate (or free):
Future Opportunities
Sometimes project opportunities arise that may not be able to pay you your normal rates. Is this project something you’d love to work on? Look at it as a way to build a relationship with the client. Ask yourself this:
Will this lead to future work?
Would it be the perfect portfolio piece?
Does it get your foot in the door for bigger & better work?
Is it something you’re really passionate about?
Depending on the answer to each of these questions and if you’re able to work at lower rates temporarily, you may want to consider this opportunity!
Passion Projects
Building your portfolio is a huge time & energy investment. What if you could get paid, even if it’s at a lower rate, to build your portfolio?
Is this “free project” worth the investment? If you’re passionate about the company’s mission, or the industry the client is in, then definitely consider hearing them out.
Think of it this way, if you want to include more work in this industry the client is coming from but you say no to them because you don’t want to work for their rates… Will you end up working on it on your own to build out your portfolio anyway? 🤔
Case Studies
Adam worked on a beer can design project at a lower rate than he usually quotes client work. Why? Because he really wanted to showcase his abilities in this industry but didn’t have a case study for it yet. This project led to booking MORE projects in this industry.
If you’re interested in adding more case studies to your portfolio and need data from a client in a new industry you haven’t worked in yet – you may want to consider saying yes to the project!
Is working for free hurting the industry?
Is the creative industry the only industry that does free work? We go over this & so much more in our video. Watch now by clicking below!