Skills are the most valuable investment in one’s growth. You don’t buy a camera to just work for free, especially if you’re trying to set up a photography business. As a beginner photographer, everyone comes across a lot of unpaid opportunities. This can be complex. Grabbing some of these opportunities might grow your career, while others just waste your time and energy.
Luke Cleland, a wedding photographer, talks about this problem in a video. It’s worth watching, and I would suggest watching it if you’re trying to figure out how to set your boundaries while navigating the world of working for free. In the video, he shares his experience of the free jobs and the temptation of gaining exposure. He has learned the hard way when it’s best to accept an offer and when it’s better to decline.
Good Unpaid Work Can Build Your Photography Business
Yeah, unpaid work can oftentimes be productive, but only under the right conditions. Luke tells about his experiences with unpaid opportunities that contributed to his growth, especially in his working for free journey. Gaining real experience, learning new skills, and making important connections are all part of this growth. There are many newcomers in this field who work with professional photographers to build portfolio. Sometimes they also cover events where there are high chances of work being noticed by target clients.
And when the opportunity goes parallel with your photography goals, it could be a wise decision. I think this is a good area for beginners to focus their “free” efforts.
Free Work That Hurts? It’s More Common Than You Think
But, have you ever been triggered by questions like “Could you just bring your camera?” Don’t bring yourself forward for such people. These requests often come with unclear promises like “You’ll get great exposure” or “It’ll enhance your resume,” but they lack any benefits. Luke says that most of these opportunities don’t lead anywhere meaningful. You invest your time, gear, and effort, and what do you get in return? Maybe a thank-you email (if you’re lucky).
At times, exposure doesn’t pay for new lenses. I have been in such situations and I can relate. I know pure intentions may urge you to help out and build some positive connections. But, in the end, you might lose real paid gigs or opportunities that could give wings to your career. Hence, it’s important to acknowledge your worth and prioritize your time wisely.
Does This Fit Your Business Goals?
Before you say yes to working for free photography business, ask yourself: will this opportunity help me in achieving my goals?
For example, if you’re passionate about wedding photography and someone asks you to shoot product photos for their store for free, your answer should be a clear no. Because it doesn’t match your goals.
Luke says when he started to focus on weddings as his niche, filtering through job offers became easier. He only accepted those unpaid work offers that pitched up his wedding photography portfolio and experience.
Luke clearly emphasizes that working for free without setting limits can lead to serious burnout. When you keep saying yes just to be nice, it’s easy to slip into resentment. Gradually, you might find yourself frustrated with the passion that once inspired you.
Final Thoughts
Apart from being a photographer, it is always important to your time and energy. Be intentional about your choices. Think strategically about how this opportunity matches your big goals within the photography business. If someone pushes back when you say no, that’s a sign that you’re on the right track.
I ain’t saying that unpaid opportunities are bad. But, when it’s a deal of zero plus zero, it isn’t worth it. Of course, you’re running a business, not a charity. You have bills to pay and gear to maintain. Don’t undervalue yourself or the effort you invest to upgrade your skills.
Respect your journey behind the lens!
[I Wish I Never Worked For Free as A Photographer | Luke Cleland]
