How to Secure Your First Freelance Client
Embarking on a freelance career in photography and videography is an exciting journey, but the path to success often begins with securing that elusive first client. Drawing from years of personal experience in the industry, I'm here to share practical insights that will guide you through the process of landing your inaugural freelance gig. Once you secure that first client, you will find that it will be like a snowball of success that leads to future clients and recommendations.
Begin by Leveraging Your Inner Circle:
Starting with your friends and family may seem like an obvious step, but it's a crucial one. In fact, it is how I got my very first full time job in videography. My family had a connection with someone at the athletics department for the University of Texas. My mom shared my work with her friend in the job, and my videos made it all the way up the chain. A few months later I got a call offering me to move to Texas and take on the role of an athletic videographer! Always start with your inner circle. These initial clients will serve as your foundation, providing not only work opportunities but also valuable feedback to help refine your skills. Offer discounted rates or even free services in exchange for constructive criticism and testimonials that will boost your credibility.
Build a Stellar Portfolio:
Before you reach out to potential clients, it's essential to showcase your best work through a professional portfolio. It is perfectly fine for your first portfolio to be a social media page, don’t let that stop you. Curate a selection of your finest photographs and videos, highlighting diverse styles and subject matter. A visually appealing and well-organized portfolio can leave a lasting impression, making it easier for potential clients to envision your capabilities. This will also allow you to see all of your work in one place, helping you note how you can improve for future clients.
The Upside to Spec Work:
Engaging in speculative (spec) work by creating content for products or brands you use or have around your house is a fantastic way to build your portfolio and hone your skills. This approach allows you to showcase your creativity and expertise while working with familiar subjects. For instance, practice food photography by capturing the visual appeal of your meals or experiment with brand videography on items like a new pair of shoes you recently acquired. Not only does this provide you with valuable content for your portfolio, but it also allows you to demonstrate your capabilities to potential clients. By utilizing everyday items and experiences, you can craft visually appealing content that reflects your personal style and attracts attention in your chosen freelance niche.
Approach Local Businesses:
Tapping into the local business scene can be a goldmine. A real life example is I used to scan local newspapers for any news on new restaurant openings, giving me the opportunity to reach out to these establishments and offer my photography services for their menu items and new location imagery. Additionally, you can explore the online presence of various businesses in your area. Visit their websites and social media pages to identify gaps in visual content, particularly short-form videos for advertising. Initiating contact with local companies can open doors for collaboration, and don't hesitate to propose creative exchanges—a classic example being offering your photography skills in exchange for services, such as getting a free haircut in return for professional headshots for a local barber. Another avenue worth exploring is reaching out to real estate offices; professionals in this industry often require updated headshots, presenting a chance for you to offer your expertise while establishing valuable connections in your community. Craft a compelling pitch that emphasizes the benefits of professional photography and videography, showcasing how your services can enhance their brand image.
Conclusion:
Securing your first freelance client as a photographer or videographer is a pivotal moment in your career. By leveraging personal connections, building a stellar portfolio, networking effectively, utilizing social media and approaching local businesses, you'll create a solid foundation for long-term success. Remember, persistence, dedication, and a strategic approach are key to unlocking the doors to a flourishing freelance career. Don’t be afraid to start small, even if it is within your own household. If you don’t have connections, start with spec work and build your portfolio from that. Once you have a portfolio you are proud of, local businesses will see your value and be willing to hire you.