How to Know When You’re Ready to Go Full-Time with Your Videography Business
How to Know When You’re Ready to Go Full-Time with Your Videography Business
Starting your own business can feel daunting, especially if you’re considering leaving the security of a steady job. When I went full-time with my videography business, Optiko Productions, at the age of 24, I faced skepticism from friends and family. But my passion and determination led me to make one of the best decisions of my life. Here’s how I knew it was time to take the leap—and how you can gauge if you’re ready, too.
The Beginning of My Journey
Fresh out of college, I worked at a healthcare IT company that offered incredible perks: paid medical benefits, a great 401k match, and unlimited PTO (though, let’s be honest, it never felt truly unlimited). Despite working for a dream company, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I was meant for more. My ambitions lay in building something of my own—a business I loved, with unlimited growth potential.
Videography became my side hustle, and I took it seriously. I worked weeknights and weekends, taking on wedding gigs, corporate projects, and real estate shoots. Momentum started to build, and soon, I was making significant side income.
Above are a few shots from my corporate, wedding, and real estate shoots in my first few years as a videographer! I’m the guy next to the bride haha
Setting Clear Financial Benchmarks
By my first year, I earned $16,000 from my videography projects while still holding down my 9-to-5 job. However, it still wasn’t enough to justify going full-time. I set two key financial goals to ensure I’d be ready:
Save a Year’s Salary in Videography Income
My job paid $35,000 a year, so I aimed to save $55,000 from my videography business. This cushion gave me the peace of mind that even if no new projects came in for a year, I could still cover all household expenses.Earn 75% of My Salary Over Six Months
I needed proof that my business could sustain itself long-term. I wanted to make 75% of my annual salary in a rolling six-month period from my videography work. If I could do this while working 40 hours a week at my day job, I knew I’d be able to earn even more when I dedicated myself full-time.
Making the Leap
Over the next two years, I continued to grow my client base. My hard work paid off when I landed a $12,000 project, the biggest of my career at that point. With $60,000 saved and consistent income that nearly matched my day job salary, I felt confident. Walking out of my office on my last day was liberating. No longer did I have to answer to a boss or limit my potential earnings. My income was now directly tied to the effort I put into my business.
Four Years Later: Reflections and Lessons
Today, my videography business generates over $320,000 annually. I have the freedom to travel and live life on my terms. Looking back, I realize I could have made the leap sooner. While my benchmarks were conservative, they provided a safety net that made the transition stress-free.
If you’re contemplating making the switch, consider these guidelines. Perhaps you won’t need a full year’s salary saved or 75% income consistency. Adjust your plan based on your risk tolerance and financial situation.
Final Thoughts
Your journey will be unique, but the key is to have a clear, actionable plan. If you’re serious about turning your passion for videography into a full-time career, start setting benchmarks and working towards them.
For more tips on growing your videography business, download a free copy of my book, Film to Freedom. I’m committed to helping a thousand aspiring videographers achieve their dreams. Grab your copy and start building the life you’ve always wanted.