Careers in Film. Freelance vs Full Time?

Film film, many of us are hit with the choice of how we want to work. Do we work Freelance or Full-Time? Well often it isn’t up to us, but we can strive to work one way or the other. 

Before we do a deep dive into this, we need to first understand what I mean when I say Freelance jobs or when I say Full-Time jobs.

Freelance

Freelance jobs are when you work for yourself. Self Employed, the maker of your own destiny. 

The pluses of this are great! Make your own hours, freedom to have a solid work life balance, no boss! 

But the downsides are freaking huge. No healthcare, pension, consistent paycheck, hours can become insane, or no work for an unspecified amount of time. 

It is the very nature of boom or bust! Some years you might make 6 figures and the next one barely make a livable wage. 

Full-Time

Full-Time jobs are when you work for a company or employer. 

Having a steady income, and benefits is hard to beat. Many people who were freelancers look at normal 9-5ers with envy over these things. Also like the paycheck, their hours are steady and consistent. Makes it very easy to plan your life. 

However there are downsides, these include not being able to pick your own hours, having a boss, not being able to pursue your passion and passion projects, and being unable to go and work any gig that comes your way.

Final Thoughts

Listen, when we think of Freelance vs Full-Time work in film, the option is usually not in your control. Both are careers, and whichever helps you pay your rent, car note, and feed you, is the right one for you. 

I know for me, I didn’t get a choice in the matter. I only have ever worked Freelance. It is why I have the time to edit the Cat’s Cast podcast and write these blog posts. I wouldn’t trade it for the world. 

See what works for you, what is available for you to do, and go for it!