10 Things I Learned About Freelancing as a Motion Graphic Designer for 12 Years

Recently going back to full-time motion graphics has made me reflect on what I have learnt while freelancing for the past 12 years.

1. Representation matters.. until it doesn’t.
   Having an agency to represent you can be a game-changer. Years ago, another motion designer advised me to have 2 to 3 agencies represent me non-exclusively. In my experience, though, one agency got me 95% of my work—until lockdown in 2020. Since then, most of my work has come directly from clients. And word of mouth has been more powerful than outreach for me.

2. Perspective on Time
   The time between jobs becomes more precious. I learned to apply the same work ethic to personal projects as I did with client work. Achieving quality personal work in a short space of time.

3. Plan for Breaks
   If you’re like me and tend to work until almost on the verge of burnout, book holidays in advance! Otherwise, you probably won’t take them. Build habits that force you to rest!

4. Taxes Are Real
   Freelancing pays well, but taxes will hit hard if you don’t set aside at least 20% of your earnings. Seek financial advice—it’s a journey! I went from being a sole trader to using an umbrella company to having a limited company. Figure out what’s best for you.

5. No such thing as a ‘Soft Life’ when freelancing
   In my experience, freelancing often means squeezing 12 hours of work into 8. On the flip side, you can work half the year and still make what you would in a full-time salary.

6. Experiment & Explore
   Freelancing has given me the freedom to explore my hobbies and travel for months at a time. Documenting art and life through photography and music has been one of the biggest blessings of my career path.

7. Embrace Pressure
   You’ll be surprised at what you can produce under tight deadlines. Consider applying that same pressure to personal projects—hold yourself accountable like you do for clients. Urgency can drive creativity, embrace it.

8. Only Show Your Best Work
   Your portfolio should only feature work you’re proud of. People hire you based on what they see, not your potential. If you want to showcase new skills, create personal projects—most clients won’t take a chance unless they’ve seen you do it before.

9. Short Contracts Have Their Perks
   Motion graphics jobs often come in short contracts, which I initially disliked. But over time, I realized they aligned with my short-term goals, like finishing music and other personal projects. You learn to adapt.

10. Know Your Value
    When you’re securing work without an agent, you need confidence in what you bring to the table. Discussing day rates, project rates, and performance fees can be intimidating at first, but these are conversations you must get comfortable with to thrive.

Final Thoughts
Freelancing isn’t for everyone, especially in these crazy economic times we’re in, but if you’re prepared for the challenges, it can be super rewarding. Whether you’re looking for time freedom, financial growth, creative exploration or dynamic work, understanding these lessons can help you navigate the journey more smoothly.

I hope this has helped anyone curious about a creative career path. Let me know what resonated with you!