The idea of being a freelance animator or designer can seem like a dream; you're your own boss, you set your own hours, create your own work environment, never have to leave your home, and best of all (I know this is the biggest perk for me), you can do your work in your pajamas, and no one's breathing down the back of your neck about corporate dress standards. But many people entering into freelance work aren't aware of the pitfalls that come with being your own boss, and only discover them when they plow headfirst into some rather massive and daunting roadblocks.
While working for yourself can be extremely rewarding and quite convenient, you should always be aware of the added responsibility and obligation implied, and of any hardships that you might encounter and will need to plan for. The points that I'll cover here are things that I've learned from my own experiences as a freelance artist, animator, designer, and writer; I hope that they'll help you as well.
The next few pages will cover some of the potential potholes that could send you skidding in your aspirations to work as a freelance animator.
