How to monetise your creativity (without social media)

[@struthless]

I really hope this helps 💞like I mentioned, it's totally an overview so let me know if there's anything you want me to go into in more detail and I can :) Thanks for watching! cam xoxo

[@moegirl76]

How many hours are in your "day" rate? 8 hours? 10? 24!? 😝 Hope not that last one.

[@vanguardcycle]

Def building a shop and generating traffic. I've tried a few times in the past to sell what I think are pretty niche and rad items that people would dig, but just never got off the ground. month after month of dumping money into it I eventually cut my losses.

[@Obsessed_ZA]

You’re inspirational man, we appreciate you🙏🏾

[@franedenysschen]

which apps in Shopify are great for people who are trying to use it as a FTP account (budget constraints) and which apps are worth investing the monthly payments into?

[@peer4005]

I love how honest you are. Please make vid on how to make your own website to sell products

[@alexandrahhh789]

“There’s enough money to go around, so why not you” is such an obvious and simple way to look at it, and I never really thought about it like that before, thank you, actually more comforting and motivational than most of the other (good and bad) advice I’ve heard before when it comes to encouraging someone to monetize a creative skill set.

[@Anthonyyg]

Its all a big circle those with established careers one day will stop (retire etc) so others will take their place and those just starting provided their consistent, patience and practice their skills will also move on. Nothing stays still and nor does it have to be linear.

[@masterpig5s]

Huh. Yeah

[@aaraparrett2540]

When he said that I kind of cried a little. (Or a lot.)

[@juicebox5883]

I really loved that , I guess we all think it could never be us but it really can be

[@jeffbrownstain]

Except it isn't true, because at the end of the cycle all money ends up hoarded by those who already have the most of it.

[@Duncan2201]

As an accountant, I can confirm this is all excellent advice. Much respect for being open about the rates charged, that sort of information is so helpful for people looking to get into creative industries and it makes me sad when I see people not valuing their time enough.

[@sirubisan698]

CPA or CFA

[@ohmpatel3286]

saying no with a price is probably one of the greatest pieces of advice i’ve heard

[@vickynegrett]

I was doing this without knowing it, golden advice

[@fredericapanon207]

When I worked as a junior estimator for a custom precast concrete manufacturer, when we were asked to provide a quote for a job the chief engineer did not really want, he would crank up the profit margin a lot. That was so the request for proposal was not turned down directly which would hurt our chances of getting asked again by that construction management company. And if they went for it, bonus!

[@carrisebear3499]

I got knocked on my ass out of art college. I worked multiple creative jobs (murals, hand drawn maps, websites and graphic design) and the companies cut my final price to peanuts every time. It stung my soul. Confidence is a huge necessity in this business. Thanks for the video and the SPECIFICS!

[@populationme]

i wish you the bestttt, im currently having to apply to university and im still choosing whether to continue accounting, taking business or go to an art college, im just scared that my skills arent good and that i cant do it as my full time job after, but i hope youre doing well currently and not letting your experiences shy you away from creating :]

[@wyatt5291]

@@populationme if it feels most fitting and fulfilling for you to study art I say go for it! I myself am in my 2nd year of an illustration degree, before I started I was nowhere near ready to be working at a consistent professional level, my style was often different from week to week and I struggled a lot with drawing proper scenes. Now from being on a good course for a while, not even for that long, my illustration style has really developed, settled more and from all of what I've learnt it seems very viable for me in the future to go on to make books, comics and make work for videogames/animations. Definitely recommend an art course that teaches you the business side of it too, encouraging professional ways of working but also to be playful, experiment and have fun. Some courses seem very polarised, I've had friends that have done degrees and they're not equipped to be a professional, then heard of courses that are so focused on professionalism that there's no room for fun. Find what's right for you, many of us have imposter syndrome and feel we're not good enough but don't let that stop you and do the things you want anyway! Wish you well on your path :)

[@carrisebear3499]

18 years after college I have a super fulfilling job working with kids in my community. I get to do something different, challenging, and artistic every day. I created my job by being a hard worker, personable and professional with each job I’ve had. I don’t make much money but I’m satisfied with a nice house and family. My advice is this: nothing matters unless you have the drive, discipline, and professionalism that make you a confident business person enough that any trade you do will be successful. You need to know what you can handle and make yourself a little uncomfortable with risk-taking. I see a lot of crappy artists making tons of money because they keep at it every day.

[@Giovannatch]

@@populationme even if you choose business those are skills that you will use if you pursue art :)

[@jas_bataille]

You have to get thick enough skin to simply straight out refuse people who don't want to pay what you're worth. You'll find good clients. You're better to work odd-jobs IMHO than to be an unpaid intern of exploited artist.

[@keishaofficer9063]

I’ve been a graphic designer and illustrator for 16 years. Struthless is right on this stuff. My advice on charging clients is keep your hourly rate private and never tell the client; a flat rate is the way to go. During an introductory conversation with a client, I ask pointed questions to figure out what their budget is and give them a couple quotes based on what they are wanting. I sent my quotes in a “design agreement contact”, which outlines my process, the parties’ responsibilities for, expectations, etc. I can usually tell by their reaction to the “design agreement” if they are going to be a client I want to work with or will need to pass on.

[@helpfulcommenter]

Yes you really need to have things written out in black and white as a contract. I used to bid jobs as a two-phase contract because I was doing design work that involved a lot of material purchasing and really high overhead. I would bid a design process and a build process, essentially. That way I could bill for design services regardless if the client backed out of the job (which could happen from time to time) - the client had an out, and if they wanted to they could take my design and hire another contractor to do it, because I tended to be more expensive on the build side than a corner-cutting contractor who didn't have the creativity to do design work. Of course I only came up with this two-stage bid process after getting screwed over a few times, so often times you gotta take your hits early in your career to learn the ins and outs of how to protect yourself and make sure you get paid fairly.

[@ameliaheart5091]

Thank you for your amazing advice too!! I have a question- what do you mean by “pointed questions”? Could you give an example? I often struggle finding out the budget of my client without literally asking (which doesn’t feel like a smart move)

[@hurleyman77]

One of the most interesting pieces of advice I've heard was "Never avoid paying taxes... paying taxes means you're making money." I'm not sure about all countries, but in the US, tax is always a percent of PROFIT (deductions are meant to avoid taxing you for income that wasn't profit). This means that you'll never be taxed out of profitability (if you're calculating things correctly). So, taxes can be scary because it can be complicated paperwork, but taxes should never (in the US and similar tax environments) be scary because you're worried that you'll pay more in taxes than you make in profit.

[@jas_bataille]

Exactly. Paying your taxes wisely, such as investing in "third-world" countries like Goergia or open an oversea account for you or your business, isn't not paying your taxes : it's sending a part of it to a place where it's win-win for you (because of currency trade up), for them and for your government. This isn't the same at all as sending your money into a tax-free paradise.

[@imjustagirl9756]

Taxation is theft.

[@topperresistencia186]

@@jas_bataille dont try in argentina, taxes will destroy you :p

[@kev3d]

I pay my taxes mostly because if I don't, men with guns will come and take my things and sell them, arrest me and put me in prison, and when I get out, I would have to pay the tax anyway.

[@katalindan4531]

*laughs in eastern european*

[@Rumade]

That "Hi Jessica, thanks for your email" made my choke on my salad 🥗 Love these tips. I took a break from freelance art making for money because the winter was kicking my mental butt. It's time to begin again! I got your book but I haven't read much of it yet 👀

[@pdpUU]

Really good, helpful outline. So appreciate that your advice isn’t “get a degree, intern, network”. You gave a flexible framework that folks can apply to their situation. For some, that’s college, for others it’s a mid-career shift. Thanks for an inclusive approach. Very practical tips.

[@jazz9260]

This! His approach is v underrated, and I love that it’s accessible to many

[@sparklypoof]

TOTALLY into more videos like this - setting up your shop, getting traffic pointed there, etc.! I wanna know it all! Thank you so much for this video, it was really helpful!

[@mudpawkendra]

This was great. I've been freelance full-time for going on three years, and the bit about the 1 in 50 bites on emails/DMs was super encouraging (thought I was alone in that). And yes, absolutely get on the paperwork early. I hate paperwork so I've worked with an accountant since the beginning for all my tax stuff, and went through a local university's law school for the legal side of setting up the business entity. Since they're students they get credit and experience for the work, and it's free for businesses. It's also all reviewed by their professors so I knew it was all good to go. That's something to look into. Some bigger universities and colleges have small business centers or other resources like that, too. Highly recommend looking into them because it's usually free or low-cost and is also a great opportunity to meet folks.

[@madisonprice9835]

I love your videos Struthless!! They've helped me SO much, and I find myself being so much more productive than I was last year. I'm halfway done reading your book too! Hiiighly recommend

[@lilyw8721]

This pandemic and lock down really hit me hard. For 6 months I was in the dark, and it's pretty dark for a person who hasn't even crossed 20's yet. I was not doing so well mentally.The only thing that made me feel useful was drawing, so I used it in my favour and started to draw 2 hours or so daily, Some days i used to draw but felt depressed, but I drew anyways. I found your channel 2-3 months ago, and I'm working on myself ,you're being a great help,your views and opinions really help alot. Keep making these videos. I love you :)

[@LyndseyMacPherson]

Sending lots of love to you Lily! Pandemic hit me hard, too. I knew it was an opp to get my own work out there, but had no idea how much baggage I'd need to work through before I could be creatively productive. But I've done the work, I'm finally there, and the time is now. (Not that work on our personal selves is ever really done, but I'm at a point where I can do this.) Anyways, wishing you loads of success and hang in there, cuz this community is something really special. 💗

[@lilyw8721]

@@LyndseyMacPherson Thanks, Lyndsey!! I'm doing much better these days. It's nice to hear that there is someone who understands the effect these seemingly small problems can have and take a lot away from you .And yeah Creative productivity is something I struggle with a lot, I make plans that I'll draw these things, I'll draw anatomy and use the poses to turn into something of my own, I mean there's a lot I need to do but no matter what I do I'm never able to satisfy my hunger ,but the good part is it keeps me busy. I sometimes wonder, does this even matter? Is my art even getting where I want it to? But the effective solution I was able to find to this was just to keep drawing (or whatever work you want to) cause I can't control anything other than me practising daily.I learned to enjoy and believe in the process and expect nothing. Thanks,for letting me vent this long lol. I hope you're doing well too. We'll definitely get where we want to, keep shining and believing yourself. All the best wishes to you!!! :)

[@LyndseyMacPherson]

@@lilyw8721 awwww, you, too!

[@whalefall413]

I hate to be the 1 asking this, but since everyone sent the replies of comfort (which you can just copy paste and know I think the same). How's your drawing after all of that?

[@LyndseyMacPherson]

@@whalefall413 Not sure what you're asking, tbh.

[@ericadurda9027]

I am a creative (mostly fine art/sketch). I find what is tough for me is I'm interested in art as a career but don't know what to focus on. Art is a passion of mine but that is pretty vague. I love hearing that you made profit on murals when you never did it. That is really inspiring 🥰 I am excited to have some art in am upcoming exhibition. Small steps 😁

[@JoanOfArgghh]

A friend of mine started painting murals and is now a fairly well-known puzzle artist. Think about all the ways art is used and enjoyed!

[@ericadurda9027]

@@JoanOfArgghh wow that's awesome. Art is so versatile. I just need to focus on enjoying it 🥰

[@bobleglob162]

I would try to find a niche or a couple of niches that are really in demand and get REALLY good at those. If you want to make money you have to provide what people want. Be good and be fast.

[@legacy7381]

Duuude, same did you have any luck narrowing it down?

[@ericadurda9027]

@@legacy7381 not yet. I've just been experimenting. I was able to sell a piece at the exhibition and I have 3 commission pieces to work on! Still nothing specific. But as long as I'm enjoying the process I can't complain 🥰

[@indiabilly]

As always a million times more accessible understandable and relevant than your nearest competitors! Yes please to the shop advice please xx

[@Sharkuterie327]

I have trouble with confidence. It’s a hurdle to believe my work is valuable enough to monetize. I’m also slow to produce and worry I don’t have time to build the necessary skills beforehand, and in an environment where folks seem to expect instant results and a high volume of work, I start to feel resentful that I can’t just let go and do it, like in the mural example. In a word: perfectionism.

[@Bloodsong13T]

you may want to check out a book entitled 'secrets of six-figure women.' yeah, i thought that would never be me, either (not that it is), but it is REALLY good advice for straightening your mental attitude towards money and earnings, and your self worth.

[@Sharkuterie327]

@@Bloodsong13T Ah, I just saw your comment! Thank you for the recommendation. 🙂

[@rixatrix]

I struggle as well but this thought helps me: I’m not going to tell myself something won’t work. I’m going to put myself out there and let the world tell me whether or not it works. Limiting myself means I’ll never start. But putting something out there and measuring how well it’s received is really valuable information that can help me decide what to do next. You can always pivot. But you’ve got to allow yourself the room to start, knowing you’re imperfect.

[@avneet2.0]

Wow, this video is like a full on guide to monetization! So cool that you've actually experienced what you talked about and it's not just theoretical. I'm sure this video will help A LOT of people. Thank you! :)

[@szymonbrygidyn9513]

For me (I'm a motion designer) the formula of life expenses + what I would like to put aside / days I'm planning to work = a daily rate. And it's easly scalable so if my daily expenses gotten bigger I charge more, if I felt like I should by some gear or have a bit more comfort I charge more. And it organicly grew over the years, you just have to be resonable with your expectations. For past few years I'm working full-time and calculating my annual salary came down to the same formula.

[@artistate9596]

How did you get started in motion design? Im a illustrator but I’m not sure on how to begin the process of who I should even contact for work. I’ve gotten so many rejections because of my art style

[@szymonbrygidyn9513]

@@artistate9596 Painfull truth is that if you want to work with specific clients / industries you should show in your portfolio that you can do the job they need. And it's also about the style. If you want to go the other way around, find a studios / companies / agencys that might work with style similar to yours and write to them directly. With time you can develop your own brand, become a motion designer with a certain distinctive "own" style and then you'll find a niche were clients would like to have it done just as you do it. But at the beginning - find out what approchable clients need from a motion designer and show off in the portfolio that you can do it.

[@artistate9596]

@@szymonbrygidyn9513 thanks for taking the time to respond back to me! I am definitely working on updating my portfilio to something that's more consistent. Thank you for the advice

[@hono50]

Just finished your book and can say: as good as advertised and a whole lot more. Your way of condensing the information, making them actionable and relatable is astounding. Thank you!

[@MixedMediaEnterprise]

You are the best self improvement KZbinr. No bullshit hustle culture crap. Just wholesome, informative content.

[@masegomashigo3896]

So damn helpful ! You're hilarious dude ... and yeah, i personally would love for your to upload a video on building an online shop if that offer for your audience is still availible :) Also ! I hope the baby and your partner are healthy and happy 🖤

[@DiannaCarney]

This video is exactly what I needed today! I do some freelance writing on Upwork, and I write on Medium which pays per view. I’m super interested in branching out, and expanding my horizons in this path. This video has helped me figure out what my next step is on the path, and even given me some new ideas!

[@cacciatore_5320]

hi ! just suscribed to Upwork and I was wondering, how do you declare your taxes when doing so ? same for Medium ? is any of what you're doing 'official' ? i'm only a full-time student trying to figure things out haha

[@DiannaCarney]

@@cacciatore_5320 oh and deductions are money that you spent on your business whether it is a subscription like Grammarly to help you write or printer ink , keep all of those receipts even if it’s virtually like by scanning them in an app!

[@cacciatore_5320]

@@DiannaCarney oh i'm sorry i believe there's a message of yours that's missing ? but thank you very much for only thinking of replying this comment section is always so wholesomeee

[@Puddle]

this video was VERY MUCH needed this morning, thank you! always love what you have to share edit: really wish you'd not mentioned NFTs :(

[@max_busse]

What usually also helps, when you already have a skill (let‘s say its photography) give your client add-on options. I‘d say in 80% of the time in my case this has helped me to get more money from a job. For example: You‘re asked to do a photoshoot - tell your client you could also film a short video or help him with graphic design. You get the idea - something simple but yet useful for your client. Regarding the add on price… I‘d say it can reach from 15-30% extra of what the initial price was.

[@weversonponte]

This video is like a road mad to my life lol. I'm an Architectural designer and artist, I've been wanting to go out on my onw and freelance for other firms, while building my artist website, and although that sounds daunting this video make it all feel so possible. Thank you for always dropping so much knowledge and giving actionable steps for us to follow. have an amazing day.

[@soumyamarhual1408]

Hey Cam! This vid was delightful to watch! As someone in her mid 20s, who is still fidgeting around life, your vids give me a sense of direction lol, thanks for your generosity, honestly I would pay for this content :) 💜💙🧡 Another tip to sell without social media is to make your fancy ass influencer frens wear your merch! 💯 Also, can you make a video on setting up shop online? Ik the process is straight forward but there is plenty of knick-knack advice a business owner can give in hindsight, aka you! Lou, me. 🐸♥️

[@Heyitskatiekindred]

What advice do you have for someone whose creativity is performance based? Like a musician or a comedian? My husband is starting out in comedy and he’s really funny but social media and content creation is such a grind.

[@JoanOfArgghh]

Great video! When I had a small art gallery, there were many good artists who had no idea how to price their work. It really does make sense to track the hours and materials and decide that maybe you're better than $5/hour, and maybe a client isn't going to respect your work if you don't put it in a reasonably professional frame or pedastal. I had no problem selling my work because I always had a good story or pitch that becomes part of the buying experience. A little wine and cheese doesn't hurt, either.

[@michalpitowsky]

This is one of your best videos, and the competition is tough. The information you are giving here is so important and so rare to find. I'm a writer and I only just started making money from my skill recently, although I already published three novels with established publishers. It's due to a lot of reasons: having babies, the pandemic... but really, It's mostly just me doubting myself and undercharging. That undercharging bit was such a bitter laugh. You inspire me to believe my good-paying gigs now are not just a fluke, and that I will be making an even better income later in life.

[@jaimeleeb]

Oh I love it when you go into detail on anything! And I'm definitely interested in hearing more about getting traffic to your online shop. Also I got two copies of your book and my 7 year old says you did an amazing job on the cover. So, full marks all around!

[@TheCreatureWorksStudio]

My problem is having too much talent/skills. I graduated from Film, can draw, can build puppets, build websites and much more. Trying to focus on one skill and monetize from it is difficult because ppl contact me to build a puppet, make them a website etc. Hard to slot myself into one area. Any advice?

[@slumber.prince937]

It's just nice to hear someone talk logically and frankly about these topics with others success in mind

[@costanzapolastri]

the advice to go to advertisement agencies was LIFE CHANGING thanks dude

[@OnTheSensitiveSide]

This is the first true practical video on the subject of how to make money online! Many others brought only more question marks and even left me feeling defeated. This video inspires me and offers a clear, realistic and detailed path. I’m stoked!

[@kirasigncomics]

I wish I knew where I could find music artists who needs creative animated music videos for their music. I just love to listen to music, imagine a music videó based on it then making the animation with my characters or the person I imagine in that song. It takes a long time but I love making theese videos.

[@valerie7326]

Could you please make a video for people who lost all their creativity once they went to school for their discipline? Ever since I’ve been in uni for fashion, I feel like all my work sucks and I have no motivation and desire to make absolutely anything creative (even not related to fashion). I used to have so many ideas and creative energy, but now all I think about is hitting the deadlines and pleasing my tutors and it has completely destroyed my genuine creativity. And literally all of my friends who are also creatives in school feel the same way and we all just suffer together 😭😭😭 your videos are one of the few things that actually makes me feel I will be okay again lol Also if anyone else has any advice, please help lmao

[@mkuc6951]

Just from my experience in Landscape design, if you quote a low price you get less respect, more stuffy-around clients and more crap jobs. You just need to take a deep breath and say people straight; this is my rate, I'm worth it and i'll do a good job. People value things that are expensive for some reason. Best to have a part-time job when you start freelancing because you'll get a whole bunch of no's at first, followed by a small stream of candidates who lead to referrals. In the end you don't even need to advertise, but think of it as pushing a car without the breaks on, its a slow push to start and then it takes less energy to keep it moving.

[@swholeanimal3422]

At minimum creativity can be used in almost anyjob to nake yourself less replaceable and or giving you levrage for a raise.

[@ImprovementGang]

Fiverr could be a great way to build some portfolio work under your belt, and you can still make some money. However, no matter what route...if you are starting from 0 it is going to be quite the work to get to the top.

[@TC-8789]

This is a very helpful video, thank you! Another tip, look for commercial art industry conventions- not little art fairs. The Jacob Javits Center in NYC has a massive commercial art convention where artists can sell off portfolios of original work or get approached by art directors for licensing. It could be a big windfall after months of building up original art with no plan for it. Rejected client work or practice/concept work could get sold off here. You never know what someone is looking for and your random sketchbook doodles could be it.

[@em_buzz]

All of the practical tips are SO helpful. (In this video and all your others!) Would love to see a video on building a site too. PS have your book (in Seattle, WA) and it’s helped simplify and define so many thing during a time where my mind seems all over the place! Thanks!!

[@janathecookie]

This was super helpful and encouraging, thanks! Also yes please on the shop how-to! I'm low-key planning to monetize my fantasy map illustration hobby this year, hoping to do some commissions but also sell prints/greeting cards and the like.

[@gamewrit0058]

That sounds amazing! Have fun!

[@Idk-xdx]

I loved this video, its so refreshing to see someone share the money side of freelancing without being vague. And I'm so glad you're doing so well & getting paid 👏

[@ingridbmangubat]

I picked up sewing clothes at the thick of the 2020 pandemic. It was such a creative rush for me. And of course I’d share my work and WIP on my socials. Naturally too, people began telling how I could start selling my work. Several would ask me how much I would charge if I make this or that for them. Since then I’ve been going back and forth whether I would or could push through selling my work or sewing for profit. I’ve only been sewing for a little more than 2 years and I’m just not confident enough to sell for profit. There’s just so many expectations - also all the paperwork, making sure I make profit, making sure I’m not undercharging or overcharging, etc. This video really helped me somehow pick the cluttered directions of my thoughts about my dilemma. Now, I have a kind of outline and checklist to go through as I consider monetizing my creative outlet. This channel rocks!

[@MariJadeWrites]

I am making coloring books, four of them out on Amazon via KDP :D So happy about having products out there in the world, and hope to publish a fifth coloring book soon and spice up those sales a bit :) can't make a full-time income yet off of this side-hustle, but I hope to get there eventually :) I am also considering making a Character Design Reference Book full of references on how to make characters as that's what I do for my coloring books :)

[@ingwaybee]

Could you also make a video on how to monetise your creativity WITH social media?

[@aliivmark335]

Thank you so much, this was a great way to start my day - your content and production is drooool-worthy! I just bought your book and YES please! I'd love to hear about setting up a shop, especially how you're thinking about best "productizing" your merch. Love your work - You are 🌈 for the soul!

[@FranciscoBurrola]

2k is like a 3 month wage for graphic designers in Mexico 😞

[@jakefinn5101]

Is there a way to apply most of these techniques to creating music, Or would it just be developing other marketable skills and/or learning how to produce music to fund your own projects? I personally couldn't see ways that these techniques connect to music but I might just be oblivious.

[@_helmi]

Liked, subscribed and now writing a comment because a lot of the points mentioned were indeed something that I did try and worked to my favour. Now, if I can add a little disclaimer - DO NOT QUIT YOUR FUCKING DAY JOB especially if you think (now) you don't have any creative skills to sell. How to find your creative skills? Remove the pressure to monetise. This is THE MAJOR creative block for anyone really. If the next thing you're going to say is something like "But I don't have any talents" etc. then hold on to this - "Creativity in the face of adversity". Adversity is hardship, anything that's stopping you to do from something is hardship. Fear is hardship. If it is hard to remove the pressure to monetise, don't you think it is time to get creative? Every time you overcome hardship, it is one step closer to your talent. Just keep repeating the process ie. keep creating not for selling but to find your talent.

[@LyndseyMacPherson]

You do so much for us; and what you're doing is really important work that no one else has taken on in a way that's terribly helpful. Creatives aren't, by nature, usually business heads. So, thank you. This is like, a masterclass on monetising creative work. I'm even taking notes. Would absolutely LOVE advice on how to build an online shop, but it feels like too much to ask.

[@charlottesimss9853]

This video was super great! I’m lost in my career right now, having a degree in commercial photography but mental health and Covid derailed everything. Now I work at a music store running their social media for fun and creating a little content, but it’s not sustainable longterm. I want to create something of my own, my own brand and platform, but I get lost in what. I could do guitars and try and work with brands since in surrounded by hundreds of different guitars and have a bit of a portfolio, but the minute I leave I’ll lose my content here. I want to create a website and social media for hemp products, but that shit gets you banned easily sometimes. I don’t have hobbies like I used to 😭 I don’t illustrate, film, or act. I just take pretty good portraits.

[@herr_lang_music]

Go for the Shop Video! Would be great to see that as a creator! :)

[@nickrenda9448]

PLEASE MAKE THE SHOP VIDEO- you are my mentor rn homieeeee lol love your work and am also fellow creative lost soul

[@Play__State]

Thank you for this explanation time to change my life 🔥

[@trevorbennett]

Love the genuine transparency, super helpful video!

[@parasitepreachr]

Waking up to a notification for a new Struthless video filled me with so much joy, no better way to start the day😎 love your videos man keep up the great work✨

[@JamieDunbar]

HOLY HELL man, $50,000 tax bill!? I freaked out when I got hit with an unexpected $5,000 bill after my first year. Took me nearly until the next tax return to pay it all off. ...damn GST.

[@wishcloudstudios]

The weird thing is, I can make logos for other people, but now when I need one for one of my products, I have no creativity. 😣

[@nalotaller9844]

I can help creating logo. If still need some let me know. I could discuss cost when we talk

[@SitRepful]

Definitely make that video about setting up a shop. Actually, make more tactical biz vids like this. This slaps. I love it!

[@ohnotagain851]

This is the video I've been looking for the past 20...something years! Thank you for making it!

[@mjstarart]

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you for real advice. I recently unsubscribed from an artist because they made a video that said it's wrong to pay people for art because you should do it because you love it. 🙄 Granted I think this is somewhat true for passion projects, but no other craftsmen (chef, musician, actor, model, etc) has this "my craft should be free because of love" thought virus in their head. I can say that I have gotten work from upwork. I've also gotten a lot of leads by drawing on my tablet at restaurants and wineries since that is where art collectors hang out. Drunk rich people love buying art. And if they can't by your art, they'll frequently take your business card and buy you a drink. 😉

[@hindenburg2006]

I absolutely LOVE you Struth💚 (and your vids!). Funny enough, I'm in STEM...but I'm also a creative, and know a lot of freelancers. This video is gold!

[@gravitybookings]

with out social media (but includes dm-ing) lol

[@stivcdl]

Please make a video on creating a website to sell stuff!

[@glr_creations]

Really helpful, thank you very much!

[@curiouskatsayshello4673]

Def want a video on making a shop like you were mentioning in this video. Super helpful video here. Thank you!

[@marabarton1403]

I would love to see a whole video where you geek out in detail about the online sales process! Please, please, please!!!

[@cinthichuu]

I vote for the „How to build a shop“ videooo

[@AlexanderORiordan]

Yes, please make a video about making a shop.

[@jojo5784]

Appreciate the transparency and examples. The accounting bit at the end is so true. Not sexy work, but much needed.

[@besknighter]

I love how pragmatic but still deeply insightful this video was. Thank you!

[@hadrienbastouil]

Thanks a lot for all the videos you do! I've been trying to start as a videographer/editor and EVERYTHING has been an excuse to slack.. the way you expose your journey and overall positivity are so helpful i might get to actually start doing it 🙏🏻

[@thechancellor-]

To the *incredible person* that's seeing this, I wish you all the best in life❤ don't over blame yourself, accept things and go forward. Don't let others define what “success” is for you. Get up, learn the skills needed and get after it, all the keys to a happy life is in your hands. Keep pushing.

[@LiamDangerPark]

Koalaty content from australia

[@lilaarual8552]

would appreciate that shopbuild video :)

[@laifnow]

Omg I’m blown away by your generosity both on the personal dev and business side of things. Pure gold thx!

[@Sam_Backhouse]

100% geek out about setting up a shop please! Great video, honestly so much information in such a short amount of time.

[@danielpspersonal]

I find so funny to compare money like that. I mean in Brazil 2500AUD(1-day work) is around what I make in 3 months of work and I make a decent amount for this country. 1 day of your work is 8 months of minimum wage here LOL its so mind blowing that different countries vary money value that much.

[@LexesOHara]

I'd love to hear the details on pricing your own art and the evolution of it! I'm currently starting a mental health project to help fund people in therapy and one of the ways I want to raise money is by selling my shitty art (I can hardly paint a smiley face without f'ing it up!). The point is that someone will get something positive & cute as art on canvas as a "thank you" for helping to contribute to the project, but it would be fun to see the evolution of your own pricing & skills over time, of course if that's something you'd be willing to share!

[@Kim-18]

What a gem you are sharing all this knowledge, me and thousands of others thank you.

[@CloverMonroeCC]

happens with many things. to include vehicles. always research those name brands before buying. you may find a comparable cheaper version. Some things though, you get what you pay for. Truely explains why I have trust issues. 😂😢 ❤😊❤😊lived your video. very helpful information. SMILE

[@dallassegno]

1: Google term "call to artists", some pay some don't. In America it's as if every location has a hundred or so. Pay doesn't always profit. Start with free or public/government project. Don't spend money on registration unless you know you will sell. Number 2: know your audience. ask your customer what they like or don't like. Art isn't about you it's about them connecting with you. Don't paint landscapes for a portrait competition. Number 3: include novelty. Add something unusual. Number 4: if it your art sucks, it sucks. Ask people what they like about it and what they don't like. Everyone knows what sucks. Don't take it personally, consider it a gift that can help you sell. In fact, you should have to sell art, you're helping your customer buy art. Pro tip: 1 Would you rather sell to everyone including poor people? Or would you like to rinse the rich? I personally do not want poor people's money. They need it. I think it is morally just to sell something for $30000. Pro tip 2: everything face to face is better. Consider sales a friend making experience. Being an artist is making money being authentic. You deserve it. It'll take 10 years.

[@NicolasPerrault]

I'm a musician and composer and would love to get into soundtracks. Ambient type guitar stuff, post-punk/wave aesthetic stuff, but also riff oriented post-rock and metal and such but also old school hip hop beats - I know.. it's a combination... I have literally no idea where to get started on this. Anyone here have any pointers or would like some music?

[@johnkennethcornelio]

Seriously been looking into being a freelancer, making my own KZbin Channel or how to monetize my creativity and came across this video which made me subscribed to you- you may not even see this comment since this is a video you posted 8 months ago but I’m sure it isn’t just me who can say that this video helps a lot. Thank you for the time you placed in this, the tips you’ve provided and your amazing personality.

[@nkechinwokorie276]

This video is incredible! Thank you so much. I am looking to get into some freelance consulting of some sort and this video is incredibly applicable. Also super exciting and motivating to see a path. Would love to live off of more creative endeavors. Appreciate you demystifying this process for the masses!! :) :)

[@hellothere2663]

this is just for me bc i plan on rewatching this video alot, lmk if someone has already done this or smth .·:*¨༺ ༻¨*:·. [ TIMESTAMPS ] 0:00 1:05 - {pt. 1} Identify your skills 2:55 - {pt. 2} Freelancing 10:00 - {pt. 3} Selling Your Art 15:00 - {pt. 4} Paperwork ˚ ༘♡ ·˚ ₊˚ˑ༄ؘ

[@mariavic1304]

Hi guys! I'm from Argentina 🇦🇷 I studied filmmaking and production design (art direction) I dropped out because I couldn't afford it but now I'm studying Art Direction in Advertisement. I would love it if you help me expand my list of *What kind of things can an art director do?* Specially online because I want to travel a lot 😅💕

[@LunaJoy]

This is very helpful, thank you

[@SniperRed0092]

Hello, My issue is that I don’t know my purpose. My art doesn’t do that well. I am unsure what my medium is. I just get so burned out when I do something creative. A lot of times I struggle to know what I am good at. People view my streams but I don’t make money from that either. I enjoy my hobbies, I just wish I knew what people are willing to pay me for.

[@BadSquiddoGames]

Amazing as always! Please do a HUBDOC and Xero video. I use these and wish I knew about them sooner

[@SeonasStudio]

ooof that tax bill! A few years ago my business was doing great numbers and through some trick of accounting and an overly complex business structure, I somehow ended up $180k in debt TO MYSELF. I still don't really understand how it happened. Very stressful! Anyway long story short I changed accountants and we sorted it out to a much simpler business structure and now I have no surprises along the way! As a creative type with limited bandwidth for numbers, I recommend getting a good accountant that understands what it is you actually do! Worth every dollar.

[@jazz9260]

13:39 Please do a video on this! ⭐️✨

[@bizziebou8261]

Heyo, this video was 10/10 again, thanks a lot pal! i‘d be very interested in a shop video because i always wonder how to best produce merch (like prints, clothes, stickers,). For example: should you work with companies that produce and sell them for you or do you purchase them somewhere and ship them from home, do you print them at home etc. Would be great, have a nice day y‘all!

[@beansbev_]

hi struthless! Did you have a contract for the muralling agreements (art for supplies)? Did you make it clear that you would keep the leftover supplies, and did you put anything else in writing? Thanks so much!

[@0000song0000]

wow 🙉i should listen to your money advices ... i would pay my student loans in less than a month if i had figured out what you did 😅 (but i didn't... but you just told us!!!)

[@JordanTMystic]

Aye Campbell Thank you for this video! Great and genuine content as always. I’m an illustrator and I’m struggling to find consistent clients. So if anyone in the comments needs an illustrator I’d love to chat. 🤙 Cheers Campbell for the consistently dope content.

[@JordanTMystic]

Oh also you are so right on murals I have been doing this lately and just got my first mural booked and having kids I have to just limit myself to Focusing on doing murals. You’re right surprisingly a lot of local businesses are interested in it!

[@jas_bataille]

I hate how so many people are absolutely convinced that artists who gain money from their art are either sellouts or that they will lose any please in it. Artist must live in pain and have difficulty to eat!!!... wait. Isn't that what capitalism want us to believe?... just, like, think about it. Saying to an artist they're a "sell out " for making a living out of their passion is one of most disgustingly capitalist statement I have ever heard. I basically implies that that someone else should profit from their talent, or that they should bury it because it doesn't directly contribute to the workforce required for the economy to work. It entirely dismiss that your art could have enough value to the world that should be able to not starve. It's insane. I still wanna bang my head on the desk every time I hear such nonsense coming from "an-cap" and "woke" people sipping their 7 bucks frappucapuccilatte drink in front of my face. I HATE those people so much.

[@KristalMatt]

Thanks for this video! Can you do a video about starting a website with shopify? I’ve got a website but I’m considering switching over cause shopify looks like it might be better to display and sell my art :)

[@ElectraPotato]

What if your skills are only able to be monetized through social media? Or monetized at all? Idk of places that would actually pay me for my sims designs... like I'm sure I could ask a bunch of design places if they would like a 3D model of their house but they have actual programs for that and idk how to use those. I know how to make sim replicas haha. I have been thinking about getting a job in electrical/construction work to eventually learn and build my designs in real life... that's originally what I went to school for though and after the first several classes I decided it was too much work to not be as creative as I thought it would be... so idk... I like geocaching but unless I know how to work on apps (boring to me) there isn't really a paying job in that field either... so then it brings me back to twitch or youtube or other social media to promote. How do we get around that? I feel like there are a lot of things I like that don't actually pay you unless you have a way to promote online...