Sam Kenneally

Let’s start with your name…

Sam Kenneally

Q2 What do you do as a freelancer?

I’m an Illustrator, Graphic Designer, Signwriter & Copywriter

Q3 How long have you been doing it for?

Since 2012

Q4 What inspired you to become a freelancer?

I don’t think I was inspired to become a freelancer it was something I fell into after studying. The kind of work I wanted to do wasn’t often available in a full time in-house role and I also travelled a lot during those early years.

Q5 What do you think the benefits of being a freelancer are?

The benefits are being able to work on projects you’re passionate about and that align with your values. The work is always different and you are in direct communication with the client so you can get a clear brief for each job and set your terms and rates. You can also be very flexible with when and where you get your work done.

Q6 What are the biggest challenges you think freelancers face at the moment?

It’s very difficult as a freelancer to maintain a consistent flow of work coming in. There can be long gaps between projects as you wait for them to begin or if they fall through. You have to wear all the hats of your business, and continually work to bring new clients and work onboard. There is also a lot of variability in what different freelancers charge and it can be challenging to remain competitive whilst still paying yourself a rate that truly reflects the hours you put into each project.

Q7 What do you think is the best resource you have found to use as a freelancer?

Other freelancers. I’m lucky that I’ve met other freelancers in my field who generously offer their advice when I need another perspective. Also instagram is still a useful tool for potential clients to contact you if they happen upon your work.

Q8 What one piece of advice would you give to other/aspiring freelancers?

Talk to freelancers about the reality of freelance to get a complete picture of what is involved. There are a lot of benefits but there are also a lot of other considerations that might not suit everyone. I would also say just give it a go if you’re curious, you can always start freelancing whilst keeping your current job. I also don’t think there is a magic formula for freelance it’s just consistent hard work, developing your skills, a lot of luck and timing and the ability to promote yourself.

Q9 What is your favourite project you have ever worked on?

This is a hard question, I’ve been so lucky to work on a lot of amazing projects over the years. But I would have to say it was a project I did last year. I illustrated a short story ‘Alice the Cat’, the story explores the tensions of being raised by asian parents in the West. It was my favourite project because I got to collaborate with two amazing writers Jeff & Isabella from ‘As I Am podcast’. It was an honour to bring their deeply personal story to life through illustration and the whole project had a beautiful synergy that made the work such a joy to create. I also feel that this project really solidified for me the direction I want to take my work moving forward. I want to prioritise creative projects that celebrate, diversity, inclusivity and community. Those type of projects give my work purpose, reenergise my creativity and make the challenges of working as a creative worthwhile.