There are plenty of misconceptions about being a photographer, but especially so as a freelancer. There’s a lot more going on than making your own hours, taking some photos, and editing on your computer while sitting in a coffee shop.

It’s about drive, being in control, and actually doing something about it.

As a freelancer, you are your own boss. Sometimes you have to work hard and sometimes you have to work smart and most of the time, you have to work alone.

As a photographer, you have a specific vision. You take the photos, you edit them, you sell them for a price you know to be good for your quality of work. You’re in control! If you’re a freelancer, you know what works for you. Sure, people can teach you things to help you excel, but evidently, you’re the one in charge of your business. It’s cool to make your own hours and even work from home, but sometimes there’s too many excuses to be lazy and too many distractions to not get much work done. You need to have self-discipline. You need to have drive.

It’s important to stay focused and make your work the best it can be. I mean, you never know when the next paycheck might be coming in, and so it’s important to work hard and work smart on every project and to really show people what you’re made of and what you’re capable of doing.

The freelance life is a challenge. How do you get inspired? How do you create something with that inspiration? Being a freelancer means to make something happen because you want it to, because you’re motivated enough to go with an idea. If you have a passion in the arts, making something out of it.

Sure, being a freelancer is overwhelming sometimes, but you have to invest in it in order to make it work. Save up and buy the equipment you need. Make a professional website and build your portfolio on it.

It will take up a lot of time and money and sometimes it will be very disheartening and challenging. Nonetheless, when everything pays off in the end and you are proud of something you’ve created, it’s all worth it. Keep moving forward. Remember: drive.

The freelance life is a lot more than what it seems. Why? Because it’s something you make it out to be.