What do you do if your self-employed animation career is off to a rocky start?

1 Assess Goals

When your animation career isn't going as planned, take a step back and reassess your goals. This means evaluating what you aim to achieve both creatively and financially. Are your targets realistic? Are you pursuing projects that align with your skills and passion? Sometimes, recalibrating your objectives can provide a clearer path forward. This might involve setting smaller, more achievable milestones or pivoting to a different animation niche that's in higher demand.

2 Refine Portfolio

A strong portfolio is your calling card in the animation industry. If you're hitting roadblocks, scrutinize your portfolio from the perspective of potential clients. Does it showcase your best work and range of skills? Is it accessible and well-organized? Updating your portfolio to highlight recent projects, demonstrating versatility, or even including personal projects that show off your unique style can make a significant difference. Remember, your portfolio should evolve as you do, always reflecting your current capabilities and artistic direction.

3 Network More

Networking is crucial in the freelance animation world. If you're struggling to find work, consider expanding your network. Attend industry events, join online forums, and connect with other animators on social media. Not only can this lead to job opportunities, but it also opens the door to collaborations and mentorships. Through networking, you can learn from the experiences of others, gain valuable insights, and build relationships that could lead to referrals or partnerships.

4 Learn Continuously

In an ever-evolving field like animation, continuous learning is vital. If your career is stalling, it might be time to upgrade your skills or learn new ones. Online courses, tutorials, and workshops can help you stay current with the latest software and techniques. This not only improves the quality of your work but also makes you more competitive in the market. Plus, diversifying your skill set can open up new avenues for income, such as teaching or branching into related fields like game design or visual effects.

5 Adjust Pricing

Pricing your animation services correctly is a delicate balance. If you're not getting enough work, it might be because your rates are either too high for the market or so low that they devalue your work. Research what other animators with similar experience and quality are charging. Adjusting your rates might make your services more attractive to a wider range of clients. It's also important to clearly communicate the value you bring to a project, so clients understand why you're worth the investment.