How do you find freelance archviz clients after years working full-time in a studio?
Hi everyone,
I’ve been working for several years at a good archviz / 3D visualization studio. My role is mostly general 3D production, architectural renders, scene setup, and a lot of PSD post-production. I currently work full-time from 9 AM to 6 PM.
I’m happy with the experience I’ve gained and I feel I’ve improved a lot over the years, but I’m reaching a point where there doesn’t seem to be much room to significantly increase my income inside the studio. Because of that, I’m starting to think about doing freelance work on the side, and eventually maybe building something more independent.
The problem is that I don’t really know where to start looking for clients.
For those of you who work freelance or run your own archviz business:
Where did you find your first clients?
Do you use platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, Behance, ArtStation, LinkedIn, Instagram, etc.?
Is it better to directly email architecture firms, interior designers, real estate developers, or other studios?
Do you recommend contacting local firms, international firms, or both?
What kind of portfolio or message worked best for you when reaching out?
I’d really appreciate any advice from people who made the jump from full-time studio work to freelance archviz, or from anyone who does both at the same time.
Thanks!