Freelance vs. Employed: What It’s Really Like Working in the UK Creative Industries

If you’re starting a creative career in the UK—whether in design, media, art, or marketing—you’ve probably heard the word freelance thrown around a lot. But what does being freelance actually mean, and how does it compare to being employed?

Let’s break it down.

What Does “Freelance” Mean?

Freelancing means you’re self-employed. You don’t work for one employer full-time; instead, you work with multiple clients or companies, often on short-term contracts or one-off projects.

Freelancers in the creative industries might be:

  • Graphic designers taking on branding projects
  • Photographers shooting events or campaigns
  • Writers creating content for websites or magazines
  • Filmmakers editing videos for businesses or artists
  • Producers working on one event for a short period

You manage your own time, workload, and income—and you’re responsible for your own taxes (through HMRC’s Self Assessment). Rather than a set place of employment (like a shop or office), you might work from home, co-working spaces, cafes, or on the go, and

The Pros of Freelancing

  • Flexibility – Choose when, where, and how you work.
  • Variety – Work on different types of projects with a range of clients.
  • Creative freedom – More control over the kind of work you take on.
  • Potential to earn more – If you’re in demand, you can set your rates and grow your income.

The Cons of Freelancing

  • No guaranteed income – Work can be irregular, especially when starting out.
  • No employment benefits – No sick pay, holiday pay, or pension unless you set them up yourself.
  • You’re your own boss – Which means handling contracts, invoices, taxes, and finding your own work.
  • Can be isolating – You often work alone, without a team environment.

Taxes and Income

Being freelance means you can set your own rates for your work; hourly, daily, or per project. As your experience increases, so can your rates; however many freelancers fall into the trap of setting their initial rates too low when starting out and undervaluing their work. Freelancing does, however, mean that income can vary month to month depending on workload. You’ll often invoice clients after completing the work, and then wait to be paid (unto 30 days).

Being employed usually means you work permanently or on a fixed-term contract for one company. You typically get:

  • A regular salary
  • Paid holidays and sick leave
  • Pension contributions
  • A more structured routine and defined role
  • Support from managers and colleagues

In employment, tax is deducted before the money reaches your bank account by your employer, and you don’t have to worry about this. Being freelance, however, this is your responsibility through a yearly ‘self assessment‘. You can offset expenses against your income though, such as travel and office expenses relating to your work. You won’t have holiday pay, but can pick and choose your own schedule to suit your needs, and you won’t be restricted to somebody else’s schedule.

Which Is Right for You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some creatives thrive on the freedom of freelancing, while others prefer the security of employment. Many people even do both—working a part-time job while freelancing on the side.

If you’re starting out, try both to see what suits your lifestyle, goals, and personality.

The UK’s creative industries are full of freelance opportunities, especially in design, media, marketing, and the arts. But freelancing requires hustle, organisation, and resilience. Whether you choose the freelance path, traditional employment, or a mix of both—it’s about finding the right fit for you.

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