When Is It Good to Work for Free as a Videographer/Photographer?

Over the last 6 years, I’ve worked with a wide range of clients—from projects where I didn’t charge a dime to those that paid well. Through these experiences, I’ve learned that while working for free isn’t always ideal, there are moments when it can be a smart move for your career. Let’s break down when and why it might be worth considering.

Let’s be honest; videography, especially in places like Thunder Bay or smaller markets, can be challenging to break into. As a beginner, you’re likely eager to build your portfolio, gain experience, and start making a name for yourself. But how do you do that when opportunities are scarce, and everyone’s asking for something you haven’t yet proven you can deliver?

This is where the concept of working for free comes in, and no, I’m not suggesting you should be the “free video guy” for everyone who asks. But there are strategic moments when offering your services without charge can lead to long-term gains that outweigh the immediate lack of payment.

1. Building Your Portfolio: If you’re starting and have little to no work to show, offering your services for free can help you create a portfolio that speaks for itself. For example, you can offer to shoot a local event or work with a small business to create content so they can see the value you can bring to them.

2. Networking Opportunities: Sometimes, working for free can open doors to connections you wouldn’t have otherwise. Let’s say you volunteer to shoot an event for a local charity or community organization. Not only are you doing something positive, but you’re also getting your name out there. The people you meet could lead to paying gigs down the road. Word of mouth is powerful in Thunder Bay and similar communities—one great experience can lead to many more.

3. Gaining Experience and Confidence: There’s no better way to learn than by doing. If you’re new to videography, working for free allows you to experiment, make mistakes, and grow without the pressure of a paying client’s expectations. It’s a safe way to build your confidence and refine your skills before you start charging for your work.

4. Strategic Partnerships: Sometimes, offering your services for free can be a way to establish a partnership with a business or organization that could lead to ongoing, paid work. For example, offer a local realtor your services and show them how you can showcase the property better and enhance their online presence. If there’s a brand you love and want to work with, creating a free video to showcase your capabilities could be the foot in the door you need. If they’re impressed, they might return to you for more—this time, with a budget.

When NOT to Work for Free!

That's an actual client text

While there are good reasons to offer your services for free, knowing when to say no is just as important. Don’t work for free if the project doesn’t offer you anything in return—no portfolio piece, networking opportunities, or real experience and "EXPOSURE" is a big red flag Period. Be cautious of clients who expect free work in exchange for “exposure” with no clear benefit to you. If it’s a project where you feel your skills are being undervalued or taken advantage of, it’s better to walk away.

With all of that being said, Here's

The Value of Your Time and Costs to Consider

Before agreeing to work for free, it’s essential to consider the true cost of delivering your services:

• The value of your time: Every hour you spend working for free is an hour you could spend on a paying job or improving your skills.

  
  

• The cost of your equipment: Don’t forget the ongoing expenses like insurance, maintenance, and wear and tear on your gear.

  
  

• Annual marketing expenses: Even if you’re just starting, promoting your services comes at a cost—whether it’s website maintenance, ads, or networking events.

  
  

• Subscriptions: Think about the software, editing tools, and online platforms you subscribe to, which all add up annually.

  
  

• The cost of delivering the work: From travel expenses to the time spent on post-production, these are all factors you need to account for.

So, when is it actually good to work for free as a beginner videographer? When it’s strategic. When it’s about building your portfolio, expanding your network, gaining experience, or opening the door to future opportunities. The key is to be selective—don’t give away your work for nothing, but recognize the situations where the long-term benefits outweigh the short-term loss of income.