When free work pays off – why unpaid work isn’t always a bad idea
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I was recently hired to take professional headshots at a career and internship conference hosted by a local chamber of commerce for college students in the area. For this job, I handled my own compensation, charging each individual for their headshot. To most attendees, this seemed normal. But for a few, it was completely unacceptable.
“They aren’t free?” “That’s too much money.” “Oh… never mind then.”
These were just a few of the responses I got when presenting the $35 price tag I (under)valued my work at. I wasn’t shocked, though—this is one of the most common challenges freelancers face.
Whether it’s a design project or a photography assignment, I constantly hear that people “don’t have the budget,” or they ask if I’ll work for cheaper, or worse—if I’ll accept payment in “exposure” or some other intangible perk. Learning to say no to these clients is a critical skill. But still, it’s worth asking: Is there ever a time when it actually makes sense to work for free?
Many people will tell you never to work for free, arguing that it devalues your services and sets a precedent that you’re not to be taken seriously. And in most situations, I agree. But I don’t think it’s quite that black and white.
For starters, you can’t expect to charge clients if you don’t have proof of the product you’re offering. Would you get a haircut from someone who’s never cut hair? Probably not. The same logic applies here: you need to demonstrate what your work looks like and how it has helped others.
When you're just getting started in creative work, doing free projects can be a smart move. Take logo design as an example. You can build a portfolio by designing logos for fictional companies or offering free work to real clients who are willing to take a chance on you. With no financial risk on their end, they’re more likely to say yes. And for you, it’s a valuable opportunity to build credibility and proof of concept for future paying clients.
Another valid reason to work for free is if a particular opportunity could elevate your professional standing. Say you’re a sports photographer. Early in your career, you may only land high school or Division III gigs. But what if you connect with someone who can get you a media credential to shoot a professional game—for free?
How could you say no? Gaining access to a pro-level event not only gives you exposure to a new tier of the industry but also lets you network with professionals who may later become high-paying clients. Just as importantly, you’ll now have proof that you’ve worked at that level—something that speaks volumes to future employers.
Finally, working for free can sometimes offer invaluable education. Imagine you’re a young filmmaker who’s made a few videos for small local businesses but has never been on a movie set. If you got the chance to work as a PA on a real set—even unpaid—it could be the gateway into the industry. The knowledge, techniques, and contacts you gain there could shape the rest of your career.
“Never work for free” as a blanket rule might cause you to miss out on key opportunities for growth. Exercising judgment about when it’s worth it to take an unpaid job could ultimately lead to greater income and success down the line.
When deciding whether a free gig is worth your time, ask yourself:
Do I already have a portfolio that proves my value to clients?
Will this opportunity open doors for future work at a higher level?
Will I learn something meaningful that strengthens my skills or professional network?
Hi! My name is Peyton McKenzie.
I am a professional graphic designer, photographer and content creator.
I encourage you to explore my portfolio to get a better idea of the work I create. If you are interested in working with me or have inquiries of any kind, don’t hesitate to reach out over email.
