Filmmaker | Photographer

January 2023

Self-Employed Filmmaker

As a young, self-employed individual in the creative industry, I have learned a lot about the ups and downs of being my own boss. At 27 years old, I have already had the opportunity to work with clients such as Vogue, Barboza, Stihl, Porsche, and Fjällräven as a photographer and licensed drone pilot. While working self-employed has its benefits, it also comes with its own set of challenges.

One of the biggest advantages of being self-employed is the freedom and flexibility it offers. I have the ability to set my own schedule and choose the projects that align with my personal and professional goals. This allows me to pursue my passions and create a career that is fulfilling and meaningful to me.

However, being self-employed also means that I am responsible for all aspects of my business, from marketing and networking to accounting and taxes. This can be overwhelming at times, especially when juggling multiple projects and clients. It is important for me to stay organized and prioritize my tasks to ensure that everything gets done efficiently.

Another challenge of working self-employed is the lack of a steady income. As a freelancer, my income can vary from month to month and it is up to me to consistently seek out new opportunities and clients. This can be stressful at times, but it has also taught me the value of financial planning and budgeting.

Despite the challenges, I am grateful for the opportunity to work self-employed and pursue my passions. It has allowed me to develop important skills, such as time management and self-motivation, and has given me the freedom to create a career that is fulfilling and meaningful to me. If you are considering working self-employed at a young age, my advice would be to be prepared for the ups and downs, stay organized and focused, and don't be afraid to ask for help when needed.