It’s been a week since I officially announced that I was going freelance as a fashion and commercial photographer. And although it’s only been seven days, I’ve already learned a lot,  looking back on what’s brought me here and forward to what’s still to come.

I always said I’d never go freelance. I wanted the security of working for a company, knowing I had a steady and reliable income. But the reality of graduating and applying for jobs has been tough, most of the time, I hear nothing back, or I’m told, “Sorry, you don’t have enough experience.” It’s been a whirlwind. Yet, in the middle of all this, I kept receiving messages from friends and connections I’ve made over the past three years asking if I was available for shoots. That’s when I realised that maybe freelancing wasn’t as scary as I once thought.

While studying in the South West, I tried my best to gather as much experience as possible. But honestly, opportunities in fashion photography and creative direction were limited down here. What I managed to achieve has helped me grow, but it hasn’t yet been enough to secure a full-time role. Freelancing, I realised, could be the chance to gain more experience, open new doors, and build stronger connections.

And so far, it’s been working. In my first week alone, I’ve booked four jobs, from professional portraits to commercial work, and even an editorial fashion shoot with students and emerging designers. I’m incredibly grateful for the support and for the trust people have in my work. It motivates me to keep going, and I know this is only the start.

The truth is, freelancing is like any other job, you can’t sit around and wait for people to find you. You have to put yourself out there: posting on social media, sending emails, reaching out to people, and constantly showing up. The grind never stops. I knew it wouldn’t be easy, but I don’t think I realised how much hard work it would take either. Even so, I’m not giving up. I love what I do, and I know others value my work too. Whether I continue freelancing or eventually work for a company, I believe I can make this career a success.

This is just the beginning. I wanted to share these thoughts because I don’t often see people talking about the leap from being a student to becoming a freelancer. Most of the time, you’re figuring it out as you go. But like any job, it’s all about learning along the way.