Working as a Freelancer

Freelancing and the Jobs Within

Working freelance in the computer games industry means you do not belong to a company within the games industry. Instead, you’re self-employed and can be contracted to do different jobs for various clients. Freelancer jobs can be virtually anything that can be done as an employee. These can include 3D Modeling, Designer/Artist roles, Coding, Music production/sound design, and many more similar tasks. The flexibility of freelance work allows for a wide range of opportunities, making it an appealing choice for many professionals in the industry.

Resources as a Freelancer

To work as a freelancer, you will need both physical and digital resources such as Maya, Unity, Photoshop, Logic, Apple Mac, etc. You will also need an internet connection, electricity, and basic living supplies such as heating, which you will have to provide since you’re not in an office where your employer would cover these costs. Without these resources, it is impossible to complete your work, and consequently, you won’t get paid. It is essential to invest in quality tools and services to ensure efficiency and reliability in your work.

Professionalism

In the gaming industry, if you are a developer or hold similar positions, formal attire like suits is generally unnecessary. As a freelancer working from home, you can wear whatever you want. However, if you are meeting with a company that wants you to work on their game, it is advisable to dress in a suit to present a professional appearance. This approach can help ensure that clients perceive you as competent and are more likely to hire you for their projects.

Health and Safety

Health and safety as a freelancer are crucial because you will have to pay for your own medical care, whereas a company will usually provide you with health insurance. As a freelancer, you need to have a good chair (which an employer would typically provide) because if you spend hours each day sitting in an uncomfortable chair, it can harm your back, lead to poor posture, and eventually cause major health problems. Similarly, with your eyes, you need to take breaks and walk around; otherwise, you can harm your vision. If you work in sound design, it is important to keep your headphones at a safe sound level to prevent hearing damage.

Types of Contracts in the Gaming Industry

Freelancing - Advantages: custom work times, work from home, you’re your own boss. Disadvantages: finding your own work, sharing work with your contractor can be more challenging.

Permanent - Advantages: no time limit on your contract, being given this contract is a significant compliment. Disadvantages: most work is often suited for part-time workers.

Full-time - Advantages: paid sick leave, often provided health insurance, better career options later on. Disadvantages: long hours, difficulty balancing work and personal life.

Part-time - Advantages: very flexible hours. Disadvantages: much less pay due to fewer hours.

Voluntary - Advantages: experience, enhances your CV. Disadvantages: lack of pay, time-consuming.

Internship - Advantages: experience, skill development, and knowledge acquisition. Disadvantages: often unpaid positions, competitive to obtain.

Working to a Brief

When a company or individual wants you to perform a specific task for them, they will provide you with a brief that details everything they desire. You must follow this brief precisely; otherwise, the company or individual might not pay you if you do not fulfill their requirements. The ability to interpret and execute a brief accurately is a vital skill for freelancers, as it ensures client satisfaction and ongoing work opportunities.

Costing and Budgets

Costing involves determining what you need to do your job, including the resources listed above. You need to calculate these expenses to ensure you remain within your budget and avoid financial difficulties. Budget: the amount of money you have to spend, which is used to calculate your costs. Scheduling: you need to plan your tasks to meet deadlines, as failure to do so may result in losing your job. Risk Management: assessing and prioritizing risks, including time, reward, and potential negative repercussions.

Intellectual Property

Intellectual Property (IP) refers to creations that are original or unique. The owner of the IP is protected by copyright law, which prevents unauthorized use or replication of their work. Respecting IP rights is crucial in maintaining professionalism and credibility in the industry.

Copyright

Copyright is a law that protects owners of Intellectual Property from theft or duplication. Owners can file a copyright complaint and take legal action or remove infringing content. Sometimes, large companies attempt to abuse copyright laws to suppress competition or smaller companies. However, if a person has transformed or sufficiently altered the original content, they can claim Fair Use, which protects against such abuse (Fair Use is a Creative Commons license).

References:

• American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Copyright Basics. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/
• Modern Language Association. (n.d.). Understanding Copyright. Retrieved from https://www.mla.org/