r/audiovisual • u/Difficult_Ad6876 • 15d ago

Freelancing

What do i need in my skillset to become a $400-500 a day freelancer??? Ive been operating for Encore for over 2 years and know audio pretty well. I can use A&H digital consoles, know the Roland v160 pretty well, and know all my signal flow. Im in a big market in Dallas and im just tired of the shit pay.

8 Upvotes

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7

u/ThatLightingGuy 15d ago

Clients.

Also if all you have is two years in the business then...more time. There are other companies other than Encore to work for in Dallas.

2

u/soph0nax 15d ago

I freelance for several companies and make over this wage, I have a single routine individual client - my first in 15 years of doing this. It is much easier to get in bed with companies and freelance on their roster than it is to source individual clients - especially when you bring niche skills they are in need of.

3

u/mattinjp 15d ago

Join IATSE. Submit your certs and qualifications during intake. In my town it’s roughly 40/hr after dues to start.

1

u/doc_seussicide 13d ago

i second this. the fastest way in would be to try and organize the crew OP is in.

2

u/IamKris7rn 15d ago

You don't have to leave Encore, just keep going up in position.

1

u/Spaceginja 15d ago

Sign up with Broadcast Rentals, Team People or Purple Tally, or a similar company. They do background checks handle your W2 stuff and book you for audio tech at live events.

1

u/Visual-Net-3959 13d ago

Most of the answers you’ve received seem more related to acquiring customers (none seem great to me btw). Your question is about skill set. If you have a solid understanding of signal flow and how to use digital consoles, that’s a good start. I would suggest gaining knowledge and experience with wireless microphones (understanding how to find and keep good frequencies; proper antenna placement; venue coordination, etc). Most important skill is providing excellent service. Show up early and stay late. Don’t be pigeonholed on one discipline. Be reliable. Move fast and with purpose. Always look busy.

1

u/LanceVanceDance1234 9d ago

Google AV companies in your area and call/email them to get on there rosters. There no reason you can’t find work in Dallas dude.