Let’s get this out of the way: working for free isn’t the goal. Your time, skills, and gear have value. But sometimes, very selectively, shooting for free can open the right doors.
I’m not talking about random "exposure" gigs or strangers asking for full edits for zero budget. I’m talking about strategic, intentional decisions that you choose, on your own terms, because you see long-term potential.
My Real Example.
During a few festivals, I took some photos I technically wasn’t hired for. We were already in contact, so it wasn’t out of the blue, but they hadn’t booked me officially.
Instead of waiting to be asked, I delivered a few great shots anyway.
And guess what? They saw the value. They saw what I could do. And they booked me for future shows. Two different bands, actually. One of them I had worked with before. That small effort turned into new paid opportunities.
It wasn’t about “getting lucky.” It was about creating a moment for them to see me in action. That experience reminded me that sometimes, showing what you can do beats telling.
Why It Worked:
- Existing connection: I wasn’t a total stranger. We’d talked before.
- No expectations: I didn’t demand anything. I just sent the photos and let the work speak for itself.
- Low pressure: I was already at the event. It didn’t cost me extra travel or a full day.
- Strong delivery: I made sure the photos were solid, edited, and ready to use.
This wasn’t "working for exposure." It was planting a seed that turned into income and trust.
It showed them I was reliable, creative, and ready. That small act stood out more than a pitch ever could.
I still had limits. I didn’t shoot the full set or burn myself out. It was enough to give them a taste.
What to Deliver if You Shoot for Free:
- 10-15 of your strongest, fully edited images (web version)
- Add your name/watermark subtly or in metadata
- A short note saying "Here are a few shots from the show — happy to share in case you find them useful."
- Mention you're available for future projects
- Link to your portfolio or Instagram
Bonus: You can still license those photos later. Shooting for free doesn’t mean giving away all rights — just be clear about what’s okay to use and how.
When It Might Be Worth It:
- You’re already at the event.
- You genuinely want to build a relationship with the artist or team.
- You control the delivery and communication.
- You’re not compromising paid work to do it.
- You see potential for a real future collaboration.
It can also help if you’re trying to break into a new scene or genre, and just need that one opportunity to show your value.
When It’s Not Worth It:
- You’re being pressured to shoot for "exposure."
- They expect full coverage and delivery like it’s a paid job.
- You’re spending your own money or time without clear benefit.
- You feel undervalued or resentful.
- If it drains your energy or pulls focus from paid gigs, think twice.
You should never feel forced to work for free. But sometimes, if the situation is right and you decide to shoot something on your terms, it can show people what you bring to the table.
Just make sure it’s your choice, not pressure from someone else.
If it leads to future work, a stronger connection, or direct bookings, then it wasn’t free. It was strategy.
Sometimes the best way to prove yourself is just to show up and do the work, quietly, confidently, and let your images speak for you.