I know it is an older video Brent, but I just want to say, great job on this and thanks for sharing your story and for all the work you do in helping others on their journey!
Great video, I am sure many people will be able to use your advice. You're right though, it does require risk, but life is a pretty much a collection of calculated risks when you think about it..
yow tom i just finished watching you videos and i learned a lot of it i want to became a freelancer alsoi but im a bout to start college life and i dont know where to start
This video is definitely older but is definitely timeless in the information it contains. I saved this video because it was so great even if the information is short; it’s very valuable. Watched it again today and I needed this so much, just to hear the simple steps I need to take. I quit my media production job that was so so to move to california on not a huge amount of money; to freelance/look for good work opportunities if they present themselves. I do decently (I feel anyway), graphic design, photography, video production, motion graphics, wordpress design. But doing all those things at my last multi-disciplinary job I feel like was a blessing and a challenge since I was all over the place. I have gotten stuck the last month in the mindset of just trying to do anything I can get and everything to make money just to keep life rolling; but seeing your video and hearing the information I already have heard and thought before; I think was expressed in your video in a manner that really banged me on the head of why I’m not getting anywhere really. Man, thanks so much for this video. I can just feel it that doing these steps to a T; will help me to start getting work and good work at that. Do you or anyone else reading recommend or discourage any freelance sites like upwork? Do you guys recommend any other sites similar or relative for getting work/ jobs?
Hey Gavin! Thanks so much for the kind words! It means a lot to hear my video can be a positive reminder for you to start getting the work you want! As for the job sites thing, I actually made a video all about that: ruclips.net/video/D4QIBVNtzAM/видео.html Hope it helps! And if there's any other topics you might like to see me cover in a future video, let me know! I'm working on getting back on a schedule to make videos.
Thanks so much for responding Brent! It's funny because I found your other video shortly after some of your other videos, haha. Couldn't see where my previous comment went to. As for what I personally would like to see that you mentioned in your newest video. Your idea similar to doing daily life of a freelancer/graphic designer would be awesome. Hate to say it, but kinda like vlog style just for seeing how one runs all sorts of things or solves problems one might have while freelancing and graphic designerizing
I remember watching this video back in high school, and thinking about the routes I could take if I became a graphic designer. Since I’ve graduated and gotten my degree since last year, it’s been tough, hopping from job to job, and I thought I found my big break, but it turned out the people turned me down, which is a big mistake on their part. I’m subject to change, and I’m more than willing to learn what I’ve done wrong throughout the whole interview, but as I grow and become a big graphic designer in the meantime, find a job that fits with me, and not only that, but make an income, if not multiple, while also having the passion to do what I love, in the end of the day, looking at this video resonates with me so much that, In the end of the day all I can really say is thank you. Thank you after 7 years, because without this video, I wouldn’t be reminding myself to push myself to do what I love to in the first place for years at this point. I have all the resources there, but haven’t pushed myself to do what I’ve been meaning to do.
My ears perked up once you mentioned a technical school, which is the exact situation I am currently in. I will be entering my senior year and my second year of tech. Here is to my future in graphic design!
New video: How I Became a Freelance Graphic Designer There were many risks and opportunities I took that have led to where I am today in my freelance career as a graphic designer, and that's what I'd like to share with you - how I became a freelance graphic designer.
Brent Galloway first off if like to say, you're truly an inspiration. I am a gamer who is interested in learning graphic design, and I am currently working full time. I can not attend a 4 year at the moment. therefore, I am looking into it in a self taught manner. I look forward to gaining more insight in this matter through your media content. keep it up!
I’ve just seriously started to look at my Freelance Graphic Design business. I’ve picked up a few local jobs, designing logos and branding. It’s time for me to step back and figure out who I am, what I do and who for. I’m going to follow this whole series and I’ll keep you updated on my progress.
Well done, im a university student study a diploma of graphic design, im now studying it, and i enjoy it, my goals are to work in atore store and at home, i'm loving it, its been a passion of my for a long time, and im glad you find the same feeling as well, great job on your success bro!
Thankyou for the pieces of adviced sir. I've been struggling and anxious on how I start to know and learn to be freelance and when I found this I felt motivated to study and learn. I'm a beginner anyways with zero knowledge and I want to become a freelance soon..
Thank you so much for sharing. I'm graphic designer and I didn't start my own business yet. A friend like you will help me so much to start my own business.
Thank you so much brent! . I am now starting my freelance graphic designing, finding clients, and marketing. I think your video really helps me a lot. Good Job brent!
Thanks for sharing your experiences Brent! I just watched 10 of your videos and it really helped get me in the right mindset. I recently quit a corporate job to go full-time freelance. I loved the idea and redesigned my website but wasn't sure where to start after that. I was just about to hunt on Upwork but saw your other video about those sites, and am so glad I did! Looking forward to more videos. Thanks! 👍
Thank you sooo much for this video ❤️ This is a thing I'm struggling with right now bcs I don't see myself in any other field than graphic design. So thank you for what you're doing ❤️
Hey Brent. Just found your video on RUclips. I guess it was a suggestion from them. Very cool video and story. You have calm cool nice guy thing going on. Reminds me of myself. I've been out of graphic design game a while, but It has never left my heart. When I did not have a computer, I used a pencil doing concept for myself and future projects or friends business. This video was great I'm starting over today and trying get back into the swinng of things. Look forward on learning more and eventually get my own freelancing going on.
Thanks for the kind words, James! Excited to hear you're rediscovering that passion for design! The best thing you can do right now is just start and continue to create for the fun of it. All that freelance stuff will flesh itself out naturally as you define your own work processes and style. Best of luck with everything! ✌️
Thanks for sharing your story - very interesting! I'm also freelancing full-time and recently started a youtube channel with the hopes of helping other freelancers as well. I agree with what you said about blogging, it's so important to help get discovered. Great video & portfolio! :)
That's really inspiring buddy, thanks. I have a very decent portfolio, but I just can't get clients because I don't know how to market myself. I want to focus on logo design.
My latest video actually shares my thoughts on how to market yourself and stand out online as a freelancer. Check it out if you haven't already: ruclips.net/video/dARaFjzi8QE/видео.html
Hi Brent, I just come across this while designing my logo, I would say this is very motivational and very clear presentation.I wish you could share about marketing the skill.Thanks
I'm graduating next week and thinking about starting as a freelance graphic designer. What I'm concerned about is the business and legal side of it. What about contracts, agreements, licenses and all those things? What is the important paperwork needed when you work as a freelancer?
My best advice here is to not overthink the paperwork. Just start doing the work you want to be doing. The paperwork will present itself as you need it-You land a project and need to create a contract, research and create a contract. You need to invoice the client, create an invoice. You don't need to have every detail prepared just to get started. As for the legalities, every state/country varies, so do a quick search for operating as a sole proprietor/freelancer in your specific area. The worst thing you can do is let the overwhelming thought of paperwork hold you back from starting. You'll figure things out as you grow, I promise you that. The most important thing is to start and focus on doing the work itself. Best of luck!
Brent Galloway thank you so much! I’m currently taking a media business law class and it’s been making me overthink about the legal and business part of this field ever since. This helped me relax a little. Thank you! You are awesome.
Thank you Brett for this awesome video. Its 2am here in Melbounre, Australia at the moment that i came across your videos. You pointed exactly what i was looking for to be freelancer and defining my business to customers. I run a business from called Shaie Designs, i post my work here and there my Facebook and Instagram pages, but buiness isnt that great to be honest. I hope to open a studio sometime in the next a year or two, but before i do that, i have to first identity what i enjoy doing and not doing all sorts of designs to scrap by as you mentioned. And i think, thats my mistake, trying to take onboard jobs just for the money. I have a brand identity and my name is out there in the community, but i want to acheive more so my income well, business doing great and cliental that brings in 80% of new customers. Thanks once again for this great video, as i can related to what you have mentioned. Thanks mate :)
Im 63 going on 64, I’m pretty advanced using the Wix free edition, I do not sketch or design logos on paper, and the idea of becoming a freelancer looked interesting, where do I go from here with a business model and lack funds to design my brand stationary?.
hey Brent, happy New Year to you. I believe your video just hit me at the right exact time of my life. I've been struggling with a lot of those areas as well. been having trouble freelancing. I know my identity and I resonate with everything you say about spending time elsewhere. I believe I have an audience and I am in the eyes of the right people. however I may be having trouble with the process slowly but surely I am finding my calling. thank you so much for sharing and thank you for your advice
+Donald Fleshman III Happy New Year to you as well, Donald! The process is an iterative process that'll come with time. I'm constantly reworking how I do things in my freelance business. Stick with it and keep up the hard work. Everything will continue to evolve and fall into place. Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment! :)
I'm stuck at an Office supply store FULL TIME (Print Supervisor, so I make what I need). I'm pregnant so risk are not a thing right now. I really don't want to be there but my new family needs to eat and stuff... I went to a community college for graphic design but wasn't focused. It's been a year, how do I get focused now??
hi, yeah your story really gave me a push walk forward with the work what i am doing, but i have one question! i am video designer i had many ideas of creativity but now can feel and can see that my creative ideas are losing why is the happening actually nothing comes to mind when i am working.
Hey Brent! I want to say how much I enjoy this video. I'm looking to start a freelance business as a 3d artist focusing on product development and some animation as well. My question to you is that did you have a battle with yourself about which pieces to use in your portfolio and what ways do you recommend for marketing yourself?
i also started with editing photos for people I know and creating logos. Now i m like some sort of stuck ! I am an active user in instagram ! bt i dont get enough post like or viewers for my works. i would like to know how did you create peoples attraction towards your works ! inspiring one ! 👍 thanks
Hi Brent! I am currently a Senior HS student, and I have decided to freelance just recently. I have done several free works for my institution, like shirts and logos for clubs, organizations, and colleges. But I still am not confident on how to set rates on my designs, and I'm quite reluctant if my works in school would actually measure up to actual designs in the designing field. Most of my clients right now are my acquaintances who have known me for my work. How should I set my rates for them? And how should I set my rates in general?
I was in your exact situation when I was a senior in high school! I took on projects pro bono through my career center, and took on small projects outside of school. The confidence in your work will only come with time, but don't be afraid to put it out there! Be proud of all the work you do - it'll only get better! As for rates, that's tough to answer without knowing more about where you're at and what you're doing for your clients, but I wrote an article on this that might help: yourfreelancecareer.com/how-to-set-your-freelance-rates-and-never-get-ripped-off-again/
Wow, it really makes a difference when you receive insights from people whom you share the same experiences with. You're an inspiration, really. Thank you very much! I'll make sure to keep those in mind. :)
I study software engineering but I don't enjoy at all , this semester I've taken an art class as an elective class and i really enjoyed it and i did very well and my professor liked what i did , i have a small experience about designing since i was a kid and Ive sold some of my work. But the problem is how do I start as graphic designer , i still have the fear of failing, what should i do ?
im in 12th grade (graduating this year) and im also a freelance designer. but in my case, people dont usually respect me since im still in high school. so i dont get paid that much. the stuggle is real.
+Marsh Production I once knew that struggle all too well. It can be tough to be taken seriously, but you'll find your confidence in time, and that respect will follow. My tip would be to present yourself as professional as possible. And the same goes for how you brand yourself and your work. If you present yourself as a professional, you'll be treated as one. It's awesome that you're freelancing in high school. Gaining that experience early on is so great. Stick with it! :)
I am going to a University for Photography and Graphic Design.... it is my passion and I love them both... I am now a senior in high school and am moving away in august... I honestly don't know what I am going to do after college. And I wanted to talk, maybe ask a few questions... I am just concerned that my dreams are too large
Your dreams are NEVER too large. You're heading into University, which is awesome. Don't stress too much on what you'll do after college. Focus on the now and do your best while you're there. You'll connect with so many people and amazing opportunities will come up as a result. I know the unknowing can be daunting, but instead of worrying about the future, enjoy where you're at now - enjoy the journey. When I discovered freelancing in high school, never could I have imagined I'd end up where I am today in my career. You can't plan this stuff. Just do your best and always strive for those big dreams. As long as you're working for them, you'll be doing great things. :)
i am really fascinated about graphic design because i want to create my own job knowing that job opportunity in my country is very difficult. my fear is age, i am 40 years of age and thinking how am i going to start a new discipline. i need your advise
First of thanks for a great video man. Very inspirational. My question for those of u who are full-time freelance graphic designers or digital nomads. How do you get your the clients? What are your strategies?
When I first started it was all word of mouth. Then I started blogging about what I was doing, and that brought traffic to my website, which slowly landed me random jobs. Once I focused my portfolio around t-shirt design and then blogged about that, I started landed more of those type of projects. As my portfolio grew, so did my clients and eventually I started connecting with larger and larger clients. Now I get a consistent amount of work through clients who I've built a relationship with and continue to get new leads through my website.
Hello BRENT. I liked your video. But I need a piece of advice. Would you please tell me wich website is better for graphic designing? And of course tell which software you mostly used for doing your job. THANK YOU
Thanks for watching and liking! By which website is better for designing, are you referring to a portfolio website? If so, there are many free options. Just do a simple Google search. But if you're looking to set up something more professional, I highly recommend Squarespace. As for software, I use two programs: Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
Great video! I am just starting out in graphic design, but I know its definitely what I want to do- I can't let it go. What software would you recommend learning first? Illustrator, Photoshop, and Dreamweaver to build the website/portfolio? Or something different? Thank you!!!
Andi Stevens illustrator and photoshop for sure! They are the industry standard for graphic design. For a portfolio, something like Squarespace is affordable and super easy to use compared to hosting and building your own site from scratch.
@@BrentGalloway thank you! I really like t-shirt graphic design. Two questions: 1) Is illustrator the better software, or, is photoshop needed as well? 2) I'm not really interested in the production aspect of the apparel design, just creating the graphic content for the shirts. What's the best way to go about this? Create a bunch of designs and post in a portfolio? Any advice is welcomed...I'm starting from complete scratch, as I'm sure you can tell. Thanks!
Illustrator will be the better software for t-shirt design. Photoshop can be very useful if you're ever designing photo t-shirts or wanting to heavily distress your designs with textures. The best way to go about starting is creating designs and putting them up on your portfolio and sharing them on Instagram. When I was getting my foot in the merch industry, I'd mockup all of my designs as t-shirts. Sharing and presenting my work as t-shirt designs helped attract t-shirt projects. Then that work helped fuel my portfolio and attract even more client work.
@@BrentGalloway great advice. I checked out your t-shirt portfolio @ brentgalloway.me - super awesome work, it's inspiring, and I see what you mean as far as presenting the designs as tshirts. Couple questions, did you mainly use Illustrator? (& Photoshop to create the distressed shirt-like texture)? And do you recommend sticking to a niche..example being, band tees...or just a mix of anything and everything?
Yes, I start nearly every project in Illustrator. Then use Photoshop for photo tees or distressing the designs I built in Illustrator. Sticking to a niche was how I was able to stand out and find my dream clients. But if you're just getting started, it can help to widen that focus and try a bit of everything. That way you can find the exact niche you truly love to design for. But eventually you'll want to find that niche. It'll help tremendously with marketing and attracting your ideal type of work.
its old video but then still I wana know without degree is there any possibility to be recognised by great or big company to offer you work ? career advice ?
whats up Brent thanks for sharing I would like to hear anything you have to say on how to get started. So many people have told me that I set my goal to high, start out small and build yourself up I dont have the time to do that . I would welcome any advise you had for me.Thanks
Freelancing is simply a business you're building from the ground up, and that won't happen overnight. I say you should have high goals. It gives you something to strive for. There's not much advice I can give without knowing every detail of your story, but if freelancing is something you want to experiment with, then start now rather than later. Whatever questions you have, simply Google them. There's endless amounts of free information on how to start freelancing online. I can say that writing a simple business plan can help. What do you want to be known for? How are you going to market yourself and to who? How will you make your money and handle your other business finances (i.e. taxes, expenses, how much will you charge, etc.)? Again, Google is your best friend, so don't hesitate to seek out answers and solutions as they come. Best of luck!
@@BrentGalloway my main focus is on graffiti fonts and it's been along time dream of mine to do work for Adidas I have transitioned over from doing work on paper to illustrator and that's how far I've gotten
hey ...I want to b a graphic designer ...BT m pretty confuse wht should I do ..how should I start..m in second year of my graduation .....need ur help ...plz guid...lov from india
Nice video Brent! I just kind of stumbled upon it spontaneously. I do have one question though, I am very interested in becoming a graphic designer. I am close to my 30´s and have a full time job and have no idea where to start. any piece of advice? school is not an option at this point.
Hey Daniel, that's awesome to hear! Good news for you is that school is not a requirement for becoming a graphic designer. The best thing you can do is spend any amount of free time you can make to practice. Put all of your value and effort into creating! Experiment with different techniques and start by creating for yourself. As you develop your skills, questions will arise. You'll naturally seek out the answers and things will just start to fall into place. Find what type of work you want to do then follow those that succeed in it. Observe, experiment, and create! :)
Brent, I have a question about working internationally as a freelancer. Are your clients from specific nationality or geographical area? How are the boundaries changing? I have an international background, but currently studying design in a small town - if I want to eventually build up a broad range of clients, do you think I'd better continue my studies (MA for ex.) in a different country? (like Europe or the States?)
+Kim Jeen Hi Kim, Since my business is primarily ran online, I get clients from all over the world. It doesn't matter where you get your education. Your clients will come from where you market yourself/business. If you promote it locally, you'll obviously get regional clients. If you market online, then you'll make connections all over the world. Hope this answers your question!
Hey Austin, the best form of marketing I've experienced as a graphic designer is simply word of mouth and social media. I don't do any local business, it's all online for me, so my blog is definitely my number one asset. I do attribute my success to it. :) My go to sites to market my work is my blog, Twitter, Instagram, Dribbble, and RUclips.
Hi Brent Galloway I want to aske you one thing that about upwork freeelance website I was create account on upwork but still they do not approve my account yet can you help me about it thanks
I know it is an older video Brent, but I just want to say, great job on this and thanks for sharing your story and for all the work you do in helping others on their journey!
+Roberto Blake Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment, Roberto! It means a lot!
Brent Galloway Anytime!
+Roberto Blake Damn dude you're in literally every design video I watch. You're a pro at this youtube thing.
+Raven Ward I know right!
@@RavenWard HAHA! I noticed that, too, but hey..we sure know who he is. Definitely a pro. If only I could meet my social media quota.
Great video, I am sure many people will be able to use your advice. You're right though, it does require risk, but life is a pretty much a collection of calculated risks when you think about it..
yow tom i just finished watching you videos and i learned a lot of it i want to became a freelancer alsoi but im a bout to start college life and i dont know where to start
This video is definitely older but is definitely timeless in the information it contains. I saved this video because it was so great even if the information is short; it’s very valuable. Watched it again today and I needed this so much, just to hear the simple steps I need to take. I quit my media production job that was so so to move to california on not a huge amount of money; to freelance/look for good work opportunities if they present themselves. I do decently (I feel anyway), graphic design, photography, video production, motion graphics, wordpress design. But doing all those things at my last multi-disciplinary job I feel like was a blessing and a challenge since I was all over the place. I have gotten stuck the last month in the mindset of just trying to do anything I can get and everything to make money just to keep life rolling; but seeing your video and hearing the information I already have heard and thought before; I think was expressed in your video in a manner that really banged me on the head of why I’m not getting anywhere really. Man, thanks so much for this video. I can just feel it that doing these steps to a T; will help me to start getting work and good work at that. Do you or anyone else reading recommend or discourage any freelance sites like upwork? Do you guys recommend any other sites similar or relative for getting work/ jobs?
Hey Gavin! Thanks so much for the kind words! It means a lot to hear my video can be a positive reminder for you to start getting the work you want! As for the job sites thing, I actually made a video all about that: ruclips.net/video/D4QIBVNtzAM/видео.html
Hope it helps! And if there's any other topics you might like to see me cover in a future video, let me know! I'm working on getting back on a schedule to make videos.
Thanks so much for responding Brent! It's funny because I found your other video shortly after some of your other videos, haha. Couldn't see where my previous comment went to. As for what I personally would like to see that you mentioned in your newest video. Your idea similar to doing daily life of a freelancer/graphic designer would be awesome. Hate to say it, but kinda like vlog style just for seeing how one runs all sorts of things or solves problems one might have while freelancing and graphic designerizing
This IS the content we need. No rambling. And aesthetically pleasing enough that i don't become judgy 😂
Thank you.. I am attending Full Sail University, and I felt this was a great advice for my career ahead of me.
I remember watching this video back in high school, and thinking about the routes I could take if I became a graphic designer. Since I’ve graduated and gotten my degree since last year, it’s been tough, hopping from job to job, and I thought I found my big break, but it turned out the people turned me down, which is a big mistake on their part. I’m subject to change, and I’m more than willing to learn what I’ve done wrong throughout the whole interview, but as I grow and become a big graphic designer in the meantime, find a job that fits with me, and not only that, but make an income, if not multiple, while also having the passion to do what I love, in the end of the day, looking at this video resonates with me so much that, In the end of the day all I can really say is thank you.
Thank you after 7 years, because without this video, I wouldn’t be reminding myself to push myself to do what I love to in the first place for years at this point. I have all the resources there, but haven’t pushed myself to do what I’ve been meaning to do.
Thank you for taking the time to share this! 🙏 It's awesome to hear! Keep learning, creating, and pushing yourself!
My ears perked up once you mentioned a technical school, which is the exact situation I am currently in. I will be entering my senior year and my second year of tech. Here is to my future in graphic design!
New video: How I Became a Freelance Graphic Designer
There were many risks and opportunities I took that have led to where I am today in my freelance career as a graphic designer, and that's what I'd like to share with you - how I became a freelance graphic designer.
Gotta get back into watching. Awesome video Brent Galloway
Brent Galloway first off if like to say, you're truly an inspiration. I am a gamer who is interested in learning graphic design, and I am currently working full time. I can not attend a 4 year at the moment. therefore, I am looking into it in a self taught manner. I look forward to gaining more insight in this matter through your media content. keep it up!
2 year program did you go Bradford school?
I’ve just seriously started to look at my Freelance Graphic Design business. I’ve picked up a few local jobs, designing logos and branding.
It’s time for me to step back and figure out who I am, what I do and who for. I’m going to follow this whole series and I’ll keep you updated on my progress.
Well done, im a university student study a diploma of graphic design, im now studying it, and i enjoy it, my goals are to work in atore store and at home, i'm loving it, its been a passion of my for a long time, and im glad you find the same feeling as well, great job on your success bro!
Great video Brent. I just made the transition from employer to full-time freelancing and loving it! Just subscribe to your channel!
+Brian Leiter That's awesome to hear! Thanks for watching and subscribing, Brian! :)
Thank you for telling the story of your life, and really motivated me to continue learning graphic design.
I just learned one month self-taught
Thankyou for the pieces of adviced sir. I've been struggling and anxious on how I start to know and learn to be freelance and when I found this I felt motivated to study and learn. I'm a beginner anyways with zero knowledge and I want to become a freelance soon..
Thank you so much for sharing. I'm graphic designer and I didn't start my own business yet. A friend like you will help me so much to start my own business.
This video still inspires me. Thanks!
Thank you so much brent! . I am now starting my freelance graphic designing, finding clients, and marketing. I think your video really helps me a lot. Good Job brent!
Thank you for sharing your story Brent.
Thank you for sharing, you inspire me a lots.
Thanks for sharing your experiences Brent! I just watched 10 of your videos and it really helped get me in the right mindset. I recently quit a corporate job to go full-time freelance. I loved the idea and redesigned my website but wasn't sure where to start after that. I was just about to hunt on Upwork but saw your other video about those sites, and am so glad I did! Looking forward to more videos. Thanks! 👍
Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment, Cassandra! :)
Hey Cassie how things went with you know kindly can you share your updates with us ?
Thanks for sharing your success story brent. People are inspire very much form your video.
Great video! I am in my second year of college and this is very useful information... Thanks!
Thank you sooo much for this video ❤️ This is a thing I'm struggling with right now bcs I don't see myself in any other field than graphic design. So thank you for what you're doing ❤️
Amazing! Def. going to use these tips!
Nice job dude. Thanks for sharing your experience.
thank you sooo much for sharing such a valuable information
I am looking to do freelance graphic design along with blogging, so this is really useful.
i want
So inspiring. Thanks!
Hey Brent. Just found your video on RUclips. I guess it was a suggestion from them. Very cool video and story. You have calm cool nice guy thing going on. Reminds me of myself. I've been out of graphic design game a while, but It has never left my heart. When I did not have a computer, I used a pencil doing concept for myself and future projects or friends business. This video was great I'm starting over today and trying get back into the swinng of things. Look forward on learning more and eventually get my own freelancing going on.
Thanks for the kind words, James! Excited to hear you're rediscovering that passion for design! The best thing you can do right now is just start and continue to create for the fun of it. All that freelance stuff will flesh itself out naturally as you define your own work processes and style. Best of luck with everything! ✌️
Thanks for sharing your story - very interesting! I'm also freelancing full-time and recently started a youtube channel with the hopes of helping other freelancers as well. I agree with what you said about blogging, it's so important to help get discovered. Great video & portfolio! :)
So inspirational! Thank you!
0:06 i got the work from home part right, the "do something that i enjoy" part is coming soon
You've changed so much~
Also, very good videography ^^
Great advice! I'm trying to do some freelance work as a side job while studying and it was really useful :)
+justBorja Thanks for watching! :)
Brent great video especially for those who need some motivation once again good work
thank a lot for the video, just what i needed to hear
Thanks for the inspirational video!!!!
I like the design of lettering at the beginning very much =)
That's really inspiring buddy, thanks. I have a very decent portfolio, but I just can't get clients because I don't know how to market myself. I want to focus on logo design.
My latest video actually shares my thoughts on how to market yourself and stand out online as a freelancer. Check it out if you haven't already: ruclips.net/video/dARaFjzi8QE/видео.html
Thanks for the great videos and tips! I hope I can go freelance someday.
Hi thanks you so much for the video. and i am the junior of freelance graphic design. love your sharing and ya, make thing happen.
This is wonderful bud!
Thanks a lot for this video😇
Thanks for sharing your story. Your videos have inspired me to give RUclips a shot
Hi Brent, I just come across this while designing my logo, I would say this is very motivational and very clear presentation.I wish you could share about marketing the skill.Thanks
Very useful... Thank you for the video.
I'm graduating next week and thinking about starting as a freelance graphic designer. What I'm concerned about is the business and legal side of it. What about contracts, agreements, licenses and all those things? What is the important paperwork needed when you work as a freelancer?
My best advice here is to not overthink the paperwork. Just start doing the work you want to be doing. The paperwork will present itself as you need it-You land a project and need to create a contract, research and create a contract. You need to invoice the client, create an invoice. You don't need to have every detail prepared just to get started. As for the legalities, every state/country varies, so do a quick search for operating as a sole proprietor/freelancer in your specific area. The worst thing you can do is let the overwhelming thought of paperwork hold you back from starting. You'll figure things out as you grow, I promise you that. The most important thing is to start and focus on doing the work itself. Best of luck!
Brent Galloway thank you so much! I’m currently taking a media business law class and it’s been making me overthink about the legal and business part of this field ever since. This helped me relax a little. Thank you! You are awesome.
Thank you Brett for this awesome video. Its 2am here in Melbounre, Australia at the moment that i came across your videos. You pointed exactly what i was looking for to be freelancer and defining my business to customers. I run a business from called Shaie Designs, i post my work here and there my Facebook and Instagram pages, but buiness isnt that great to be honest. I hope to open a studio sometime in the next a year or two, but before i do that, i have to first identity what i enjoy doing and not doing all sorts of designs to scrap by as you mentioned. And i think, thats my mistake, trying to take onboard jobs just for the money. I have a brand identity and my name is out there in the community, but i want to acheive more so my income well, business doing great and cliental that brings in 80% of new customers. Thanks once again for this great video, as i can related to what you have mentioned.
Thanks mate
:)
Excellent advice Brent
Im 63 going on 64, I’m pretty advanced using the Wix free edition, I do not sketch or design logos on paper, and the idea of becoming a freelancer looked interesting, where do I go from here with a business model and lack funds to design my brand stationary?.
hey Brent, happy New Year to you. I believe your video just hit me at the right exact time of my life. I've been struggling with a lot of those areas as well. been having trouble freelancing. I know my identity and I resonate with everything you say about spending time elsewhere. I believe I have an audience and I am in the eyes of the right people. however I may be having trouble with the process slowly but surely I am finding my calling. thank you so much for sharing and thank you for your advice
+Donald Fleshman III Happy New Year to you as well, Donald! The process is an iterative process that'll come with time. I'm constantly reworking how I do things in my freelance business. Stick with it and keep up the hard work. Everything will continue to evolve and fall into place. Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment! :)
This was really helpful, thanks!
Thanks a lot you inspired me very much... thumbs up
This video just earned one more subscription in me. Great content sir!
Seanwes hype!
Super inspiring AND informative video. I'm working on the Overlap Technique right now but in 6 months I'm thinking I might be there ;)
The thing that haunted me always is lacking idea in designing. How to overcome this problem? I'm an software eng in few years later
No prob bruh.. Just give it some time. You will surely rock..
Thank you! Life Saver
Thanks Brent...its inspiring
Very helpful video.
Great video for inspiration ! thank you :)
Thank you so much for this :)
I'm stuck at an Office supply store FULL TIME (Print Supervisor, so I make what I need). I'm pregnant so risk are not a thing right now. I really don't want to be there but my new family needs to eat and stuff... I went to a community college for graphic design but wasn't focused. It's been a year, how do I get focused now??
where can I start learning Graphic Design ?
Thank you for this Video! Like it!
hi, yeah your story really gave me a push walk forward with the work what i am doing, but i have one question! i am video designer i had many ideas of creativity but now can feel and can see that my creative ideas are losing why is the happening actually nothing comes to mind when i am working.
Hey Brent! I want to say how much I enjoy this video. I'm looking to start a freelance business as a 3d artist focusing on product development and some animation as well. My question to you is that did you have a battle with yourself about which pieces to use in your portfolio and what ways do you recommend for marketing yourself?
Thank you
thank you for sharing
thank you very much from France !!!
i also started with editing photos for people I know and creating logos. Now i m like some sort of stuck ! I am an active user in instagram ! bt i dont get enough post like or viewers for my works. i would like to know how did you create peoples attraction towards your works ! inspiring one ! 👍 thanks
Hi Brent! I am currently a Senior HS student, and I have decided to freelance just recently. I have done several free works for my institution, like shirts and logos for clubs, organizations, and colleges. But I still am not confident on how to set rates on my designs, and I'm quite reluctant if my works in school would actually measure up to actual designs in the designing field. Most of my clients right now are my acquaintances who have known me for my work. How should I set my rates for them? And how should I set my rates in general?
I was in your exact situation when I was a senior in high school! I took on projects pro bono through my career center, and took on small projects outside of school. The confidence in your work will only come with time, but don't be afraid to put it out there! Be proud of all the work you do - it'll only get better! As for rates, that's tough to answer without knowing more about where you're at and what you're doing for your clients, but I wrote an article on this that might help: yourfreelancecareer.com/how-to-set-your-freelance-rates-and-never-get-ripped-off-again/
Wow, it really makes a difference when you receive insights from people whom you share the same experiences with. You're an inspiration, really. Thank you very much! I'll make sure to keep those in mind. :)
Thanks for your reply
i wanna learn how to design please..from where should i begin?
Thank you for this video
I study software engineering but I don't enjoy at all , this semester I've taken an art class as an elective class and i really enjoyed it and i did very well and my professor liked what i did , i have a small experience about designing since i was a kid and Ive sold some of my work. But the problem is how do I start as graphic designer , i still have the fear of failing, what should i do ?
im in 12th grade (graduating this year) and im also a freelance designer. but in my case, people dont usually respect me since im still in high school. so i dont get paid that much. the stuggle is real.
+Marsh Production I once knew that struggle all too well. It can be tough to be taken seriously, but you'll find your confidence in time, and that respect will follow. My tip would be to present yourself as professional as possible. And the same goes for how you brand yourself and your work. If you present yourself as a professional, you'll be treated as one. It's awesome that you're freelancing in high school. Gaining that experience early on is so great. Stick with it! :)
Thank you.
hii I want to start as a freelance graphic designer from where I should start
I am going to a University for Photography and Graphic Design.... it is my passion and I love them both... I am now a senior in high school and am moving away in august... I honestly don't know what I am going to do after college. And I wanted to talk, maybe ask a few questions... I am just concerned that my dreams are too large
Your dreams are NEVER too large. You're heading into University, which is awesome. Don't stress too much on what you'll do after college. Focus on the now and do your best while you're there. You'll connect with so many people and amazing opportunities will come up as a result. I know the unknowing can be daunting, but instead of worrying about the future, enjoy where you're at now - enjoy the journey. When I discovered freelancing in high school, never could I have imagined I'd end up where I am today in my career. You can't plan this stuff. Just do your best and always strive for those big dreams. As long as you're working for them, you'll be doing great things. :)
Brent Galloway thank you, this means a lot :)
How we can find out our level in design?
Thanks for sharing your experience! I wonder wether graphic designing is gonna stay as actual as today?
i am really fascinated about graphic design because i want to create my own job knowing that job opportunity in my country is very difficult. my fear is age, i am 40 years of age and thinking how am i going to start a new discipline. i need your advise
First of thanks for a great video man. Very inspirational. My question for those of u who are full-time freelance graphic designers or digital nomads. How do you get your the clients? What are your strategies?
When I first started it was all word of mouth. Then I started blogging about what I was doing, and that brought traffic to my website, which slowly landed me random jobs. Once I focused my portfolio around t-shirt design and then blogged about that, I started landed more of those type of projects. As my portfolio grew, so did my clients and eventually I started connecting with larger and larger clients. Now I get a consistent amount of work through clients who I've built a relationship with and continue to get new leads through my website.
i dont have a computer so how can i be like u
??
idk m8 but an android phone or tablet. should work
I wanted to learn how can I establish my self as an freelancer..
Hello BRENT. I liked your video. But I need a piece of advice. Would you please tell me wich website is better for graphic designing? And of course tell which software you mostly used for doing your job.
THANK YOU
Thanks for watching and liking! By which website is better for designing, are you referring to a portfolio website? If so, there are many free options. Just do a simple Google search. But if you're looking to set up something more professional, I highly recommend Squarespace. As for software, I use two programs: Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
Where should I showcase my Logo works to get my first paid job?? I got no degree or formal schooling , will I get job in logo design career??
what are the first steps to be a graphic designer
hello brent..can u teach how to do?
Great video! I am just starting out in graphic design, but I know its definitely what I want to do- I can't let it go. What software would you recommend learning first? Illustrator, Photoshop, and Dreamweaver to build the website/portfolio? Or something different? Thank you!!!
Andi Stevens illustrator and photoshop for sure! They are the industry standard for graphic design. For a portfolio, something like Squarespace is affordable and super easy to use compared to hosting and building your own site from scratch.
@@BrentGalloway thank you! I really like t-shirt graphic design. Two questions:
1) Is illustrator the better software, or, is photoshop needed as well?
2) I'm not really interested in the production aspect of the apparel design, just creating the graphic content for the shirts. What's the best way to go about this? Create a bunch of designs and post in a portfolio? Any advice is welcomed...I'm starting from complete scratch, as I'm sure you can tell. Thanks!
Illustrator will be the better software for t-shirt design. Photoshop can be very useful if you're ever designing photo t-shirts or wanting to heavily distress your designs with textures. The best way to go about starting is creating designs and putting them up on your portfolio and sharing them on Instagram. When I was getting my foot in the merch industry, I'd mockup all of my designs as t-shirts. Sharing and presenting my work as t-shirt designs helped attract t-shirt projects. Then that work helped fuel my portfolio and attract even more client work.
@@BrentGalloway great advice. I checked out your t-shirt portfolio @ brentgalloway.me - super awesome work, it's inspiring, and I see what you mean as far as presenting the designs as tshirts. Couple questions, did you mainly use Illustrator? (& Photoshop to create the distressed shirt-like texture)? And do you recommend sticking to a niche..example being, band tees...or just a mix of anything and everything?
Yes, I start nearly every project in Illustrator. Then use Photoshop for photo tees or distressing the designs I built in Illustrator. Sticking to a niche was how I was able to stand out and find my dream clients. But if you're just getting started, it can help to widen that focus and try a bit of everything. That way you can find the exact niche you truly love to design for. But eventually you'll want to find that niche. It'll help tremendously with marketing and attracting your ideal type of work.
its old video but then still I wana know without degree is there any possibility to be recognised by great or big company to offer you work ? career advice ?
whats up Brent thanks for sharing I would like to hear anything you have to say on how to get started. So many people have told me that I set my goal to high, start out small and build yourself up I dont have the time to do that . I would welcome any advise you had for me.Thanks
Freelancing is simply a business you're building from the ground up, and that won't happen overnight. I say you should have high goals. It gives you something to strive for. There's not much advice I can give without knowing every detail of your story, but if freelancing is something you want to experiment with, then start now rather than later. Whatever questions you have, simply Google them. There's endless amounts of free information on how to start freelancing online. I can say that writing a simple business plan can help. What do you want to be known for? How are you going to market yourself and to who? How will you make your money and handle your other business finances (i.e. taxes, expenses, how much will you charge, etc.)? Again, Google is your best friend, so don't hesitate to seek out answers and solutions as they come. Best of luck!
@@BrentGalloway my main focus is on graffiti fonts and it's been along time dream of mine to do work for Adidas I have transitioned over from doing work on paper to illustrator and that's how far I've gotten
Inspirational dude 👏🏼
hey ...I want to b a graphic designer ...BT m pretty confuse wht should I do ..how should I start..m in second year of my graduation .....need ur help ...plz guid...lov from india
Great video
Great motivational quote at the end
Nice video Brent! I just kind of stumbled upon it spontaneously. I do have one question though, I am very interested in becoming a graphic designer. I am close to my 30´s and have a full time job and have no idea where to start. any piece of advice? school is not an option at this point.
Hey Daniel, that's awesome to hear! Good news for you is that school is not a requirement for becoming a graphic designer. The best thing you can do is spend any amount of free time you can make to practice. Put all of your value and effort into creating! Experiment with different techniques and start by creating for yourself. As you develop your skills, questions will arise. You'll naturally seek out the answers and things will just start to fall into place. Find what type of work you want to do then follow those that succeed in it. Observe, experiment, and create! :)
what gcse's should i choose or need to become a free lance graphic designer?
Brent, I have a question about working internationally as a freelancer. Are your clients from specific nationality or geographical area? How are the boundaries changing? I have an international background, but currently studying design in a small town - if I want to eventually build up a broad range of clients, do you think I'd better continue my studies (MA for ex.) in a different country? (like Europe or the States?)
+Kim Jeen Hi Kim, Since my business is primarily ran online, I get clients from all over the world. It doesn't matter where you get your education. Your clients will come from where you market yourself/business. If you promote it locally, you'll obviously get regional clients. If you market online, then you'll make connections all over the world. Hope this answers your question!
Thank you for your reply! It did :) Thanks for your great videos as well!
What are the best marketing tools? You mention blogs, but is that the only thing you attribute to your success?
Hey Austin, the best form of marketing I've experienced as a graphic designer is simply word of mouth and social media. I don't do any local business, it's all online for me, so my blog is definitely my number one asset. I do attribute my success to it. :) My go to sites to market my work is my blog, Twitter, Instagram, Dribbble, and RUclips.
Hi Brent Galloway I want to aske you one thing that about upwork freeelance website I was create account on upwork but still they do not approve my account yet can you help me about it thanks
good man you are.......................inspired me############
can you give suggestions about the freelancer.............