Most Important Skills for an Independent Media Professional
For a freelance artist or independent media specialist, the most crucial skills aren't technical abilities, but rather "being okay with instability" and financial sacrifices, maintaining strong relationships within their community through consistent engagement even outside of work assignments. This commitment to community building and financial resilience are key factors for success in this career path.
Financial Responsibility, Relationship Building, Adaptability, Self-Motivation, Resilience
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Willa Cutolo
Independent Media
Independent Organization
UCLA
N/A
English, Writing & Education, English
Arts, Entertainment & Media
Operations and Project Management
Scholarship Recipient, Pell Grant Recipient, Took Out Loans, Worked 20+ Hours in School, LGBTQ, First Generation College Student
Video Highlights
1. Financial responsibility and stability: The interviewee highlights the importance of being comfortable with financial instability and managing finances responsibly, especially during periods with less work. This is crucial for independent contractors and freelancers.
2. Relationship building and networking: Maintaining strong relationships with clients and colleagues is vital for long-term success. Showing up for events and actively participating in the community helps build trust and generate future opportunities.
3. Adaptability and compromise: The interviewee emphasizes the need to be adaptable and comfortable with compromise, especially in situations where maintaining personal authenticity may conflict with workplace expectations. This includes being okay with lean times and prioritizing financial stability over the perceived security of a full-time job.
Transcript
What skills are most important for a job like yours?
I think if you're going to be a business owner, trying to build something on your own and make a living with it, it requires a certain type of person. Not everyone has the means to do it, but many people are uncomfortable with the sacrifices and compromises that come with it.
If you're a beginner trying to be a full-time photographer or artist, the hardest part isn't figuring out how to make a beautiful photo, painting, or graphic. The hardest part is being okay with instability. There are many times I don't have anything booked and am doing other things that I can't do if I'm actively taking clients or on location.
Part of that materially is being okay with living lean sometimes. It means ensuring there's enough money to cover business expenses and your personal living costs, while also handling any debt. You need to be able to do all this without losing a lot of money or letting debt spiral out of control.
Many people I talk to aren't comfortable making those sacrifices. That's fine. Some people really value the security that comes with a full-time job, and that's also fine. I don't share that belief. I feel best when I'm in control of the money I'm making and get to decide what work I take.
For me, especially as a trans woman, that's really important. I've been in work environments where I've had to compromise parts of myself and act a certain way to get the respect I feel anyone deserves from a work environment.
Honestly, it doesn't take a lot to create a beautiful image. It's a craft, a skill that takes years to hone, but anyone can do it. What's unteachable is being okay with that compromise. That's a commitment people have to make.
Another vital thing is being able to maintain relationships. This means showing up to people's events, even when you're not working. It's important to show up to keep those relationships alive, to support them, and be part of their community.
You're not just expecting clients to do everything for you. For me, it's an exchange, an ongoing one, even long after the photos are delivered.
In short, if you want to be a freelance artist or independent media specialist, be okay with not making a ton of money at first. Expect months where things are a little murky and be ready to commit to relationships and the communities you serve. That's really important.