Freelance

Freelance illustration is a very independent way to go - you get to keep your own style, work your own hours, and work from the comfort of your own home- this makes it sound like the ideal lifestyle with a lot of creative freedom.

Whilst the latter is true, this ideal lifestyle doesn't come without its hardships. Though you get to choose when you work, you will have to work hard and often and this requires a lot of self motivation - especially in the beginning. You can go weeks without work, only for it to all come through at once, which can seem quite overwhelming. Though you get to keep your own style, you have to make sure you sell it well - and to top it off you have to network as if your life depends on it (which, it kind of does).

All of these facts make freelancing a difficult (but enjoyable) path of work. It is important to keep enthusiastic about what you're doing, and to never turn down any opportunities - this includes competitions, exhibitions (make sure you photograph them well!) and - mainly in the beginning - any cheap or free work. Collaborations are important too, as they expand your network and show your work to a wider audience - not only to your own following but the person(s)' you collaborate with too

Ultimately, it seems like something I would find difficult but much prefer over to any other style of work. Though I like working to a brief, I love to have my own freedom, and freelancing is a bit of a mix of the two.