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How Do I Become a Freelance Videographer?

Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari

As a freelance videographer, you will be responsible for creating videos, editing them, and delivering a finished product to various clients who hire you for such services. In order to become a freelance videographer, it helps to first develop a passion for film and video, and to learn as much as possible about current technology. You are likely to work with digital video cameras in this job, so be sure to learn as much as possible about this type of camera work. If at all possible, invest some money into a good camera that will allow you to create professional videos for clients.

You do not necessarily need any specific level of education to become a freelance videographer, though a high school diploma or equivalent qualification is certainly helpful, as is some post-secondary training in videography or film. If you intend to become a freelance videographer, you will need to build your credentials so potential clients have a reason to trust you can create good work. Some education is a good way to show your professional credentials, but more importantly, you will need to develop a strong portfolio of your best work that clients can see before hiring you.

Freelance videographers are expected to have their own editing software, as well as a professional camera.
Freelance videographers are expected to have their own editing software, as well as a professional camera.

Your portfolio will contain only your best work, and it should be available for viewing quickly and easily. The best way to present your work is to build a website that potential clients can access easily. Make sure your website is designed properly and is easy to navigate, as this will also reflect on your business if you want to become a freelance videographer.

Freelance videographers may work on projects in their spare time at home.
Freelance videographers may work on projects in their spare time at home.

It will be important to know your limitations as well. When you start out as a freelance videographer, you may not have all the equipment you need to make professional videos. If this is the case, do not advertise your services until you are prepared to meet the needs of clients. If you do book jobs and do not have the proper equipment, be prepared to buy that equipment or rent it in time for the shoot. Remember that post-production editing services will also be your responsibility, so you will need a reliable computer system with all the appropriate software. It may be a good idea to seek out a business loan to ensure you have all the proper tools and equipment you need to do a professional job for clients. Remember that a bad job is not just a bad job for one client; it is negative advertising that can affect your business in the long term.

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    • Freelance videographers are expected to have their own editing software, as well as a professional camera.
      By: AntonioDiaz
      Freelance videographers are expected to have their own editing software, as well as a professional camera.
    • Freelance videographers may work on projects in their spare time at home.
      By: stokkete
      Freelance videographers may work on projects in their spare time at home.
    • Videographers are increasingly getting more work covering weddings.
      By: tomas del amo
      Videographers are increasingly getting more work covering weddings.
    • Videographers may help a couple capture moments that can be used in an engagement announcement.
      By: Mat Hayward
      Videographers may help a couple capture moments that can be used in an engagement announcement.