Work for Free!

No, not really, but some are advocating it (well, sort of, read the posts) over at Strobist and at Chase Jarvis' blog.

I think Vincent Laforet hit the head on the nail with his post in response to all this buzz about working for free, here.

From Vincent's post:

"Big name actors do occasionally work for free, so do big name talent in all areas - IF THE PROJECT is AMAZING - and not backed by a HUGE company sitting on cash. This is a VERY IMPORTANT DISTINCTION."

Very well put and it is quite the distinction. I have an education in Film and in school, my friends and I would crew on films for free all the time. But those same people we helped out would later help out on our film. Now, these projects weren't amazing but they were experience and portfolio builders. I worked for free on those film projects but it was a very selfish free. I don't think I can emphasize the selfish aspect enough.

Maybe I don't understand David's point but I don't really consider doing charity work or shooting TFP or TFCD shooting for free. That's just portfolio building. The thing I worry about is people might think too small or screw themselves over instead of actually understanding what is good to shoot for free.

And lastly, a rant so fitting for this topic: