dailies

As a self-employed entrepreneur or freelancer, where do you draw the line on what you will and will not do for a client? It’s something I’ve given a bit of thought to lately, with no steadfast conclusion.

You are asked to do or create something which you know to be wrong or otherwise an embarrassment to your craft. On the one hand, you are being paid for your services and talent, and are obligated to do what the client wishes. On the other hand, after this client is gone, all you are left with is money (hopefully) and this piece which is, at best, useless for your portfolio, at worst, has your name and pride attached to it. There must be a point where you have to self-preserve and say enough is enough.

I suppose if you were a full-blown employee, it doesn’t much matter. Nothing you do has any direct bearing on you, and you can’t use anything for a personal portfolio anyway. However, for a self-employed designer/photographer/artist/etc, all you have is your portfolio. A creative’s portfolio is the holy grail for prospective new clients and employers; resumes come second, if at all. So if you’ve filled your portfolio with crappy work you knew sucked when you created it, but still made money, where does that leave you for the future? Ultimately not in a good position I’m afraid. Telling your future employer at an interview that the reason that project looks horrid was the client’s fault, probably won’t go over so hot.

What about you guys? Thoughts?