Good idea?

[Blade Borge]

To gain experience and confidence to charge people for my work, do you think I should approach local businesses for free video work? Do you think id be seen as just another pesky soliciter eventhough im giving something free which would help their business?
I kinda feel like im in a death loop where i dont have the confidence to take on professional projects because i dont have experience, and i cant seem to gain experience because i dont have the confidence. But maybe if i start small and free i could build up that confidence?

 

[Cole]

I think a better idea would be to approach your "warm" market first. This includes people in your circle of friends and/or family or someone they know that might benefit from your type of service. They will be in a position to understand and want to help. They will cut you a little slack as you learn and you avoid setting the tone as the guy that works for free.

Once you have a portfolio of various examples then you can market to the business owners you don't know. I would put a price on it though and not just sell it as a no cost item. When you talk with them tell them that you estimate this would cost "x" amount of dollars, but you want to gain the experience so it will be no cost to them this time.

And since this is a learning exercise for you should treat it as a paying job. Create some type of agreement that explains the expectations of both sides. Give yourself a reasonable deadline and deliver on time, if not early. Keep track of your expenses and time invested and this will help you price your services down the road.

Good Luck!

Cole

 

[David W. Jones]

Why not get a job at a production house where you will learn the skills you need and gain valuable experience, while drawing a real paycheck?

All the Best!

Dave