Understanding Collaborations, Partnerships, and Subcontracting (Part 2)

In my previous post, I introduced three additional ways professional freelancers can land projects and assignments. Now, let's get down to the nitty-gritty details of collaborations. You may ask, when is it reasonable to allow others to hire you on a commission basis?

Be aware that when you collaborate with other workers, it's highly likely that you won't be the one calling the shots when it comes to setting rates. To illustrate, there are event organizers that offer package deals for pre-nuptial shoots that cater to engaged couples. This recent trend has resulted to an increase in the demand for wedding photographers.

Event organizers charge Php25,000 (at the lowest) for a wedding package, and just like any services, the price could vary according to a number of reasons. This could also depend on the season. There are certain months when weddings are at their peak. If you're a freelance photographer, ask yourself if it would be worth it to accept a commission based on that amount.

Of course, any amount would be worth it if in the process of working, you learn the value of being flexible and adaptable, and you end up more capable in handling clients.

Speaking from more than a decade of experience, I have now realized that a freelancing professional's success depends a lot less on his range of skills and more on how effective he is in negotiating with people.

Don't get me wrong. Skills are important. Your skills set or range of skills is what you offer to prospective clients. But a good part of a freelancer's work involves "communicating his worth," or making his clients see why he's the best man for the job.

Also, be aware that some clients out there still view freelancing as a form of "cheap labor," where they can make all sorts of demands while paying a lot less.

The truth is, freelance workers charge less because the majority of freelancing professionals work from home, so their overhead expenses is cheaper. But this doesn't justify poor treatment from clients.

I'll talk about collaborations further in my next articles.