TouchDesigner Freelancer Tips

Do you want to become a TouchDesigner freelancer or are you already one and want to take a step forward? In this article we will share some tips.

Being a freelancer has several advantages. You can manage your time, you can find new opportunities every day, you are not bound by a fixed work schedule. But there are two sides to every story. You have to manage clients on your own, get ready to take risks and face financial uncertainty.

I know it very well; I have been a freelancer since 2012. Since I am now older – or wiser – I would like to share with you some practical tips to survive in the freelance jungle. Let’s go!

Find your space

TouchDesigner is such a huge environment and it can be used for such a wide range of applications. So it is pivotal to specialize in a niche, in order to enhance the opportunities to get noticed for a job. For example, I am very passionate about interaction design, that is why I decided to focus myself on sensors and tangible interfaces. Follow your interests and master them, whether it’s generative visuals, AR/VR/MR, data visualization and so on.

Try to learn everything

Well, this seems to contradict what I just wrote. But it is important to have a wide knowledge of everything related to TouchDesigner. You should be able to know how to use (almost) every TD operator, in order to be prepared to face every project detail. So find your niche and continue to learn as much as you can. There are many ways to improve your skills, starting from this blog 😊

Learn to code

For those who do have not a background in programming, coding can be intimidating at first. That was the case for me at first: I have a background in humanities and never approached coding until I was 28. Learning to code gives you the ability to understand what is happening behind the scenes. With this knowledge, you’ll be able to develop custom solutions and design new ideas for your projects. As a TouchDesigner freelancer, Python is the language you have to master, and fortunately it is quite easy to learn. 

What about other softwares?

OK, we all love TouchDesigner. But sometimes other environments could be needed to satisfy clients requirements. To be ready for anything, try to dedicate some time to explore another software that pairs well with TouchDesigner, such as Unreal, Blender, Notch or Max MSP.

Be your own boss

The following tips are good for all freelancers, from immersive designers to pastry chefs. Remember that you are the one who pays your own bills, so you need to have excellent self-discipline. 

Manage your time

Time is money. So focus yourself on how to effectively spend your time. Organize your work routine in time slots for projects development, clients relations, new business and learning new skills.

Manage your projects

It is a good idea to apply project management techniques to your daily job routine. This will help you effectively manage day-to-day relations with clients and be more productive.

Manage your money

Money cannot buy happiness, but poverty certainly cannot either. Jokes aside, try to save a small amount of money every month and reinvest it into something you can sell to your clients. It could be a more powerful computer, a projector, an LED wall, a sensor, and so on.

Relations, relations, relations

You can be the best TouchDesigner developer, but if no one knows about you and your talent then you simply do not exist. That is why making connections is really important: create and build relationships, speak with other colleagues, go to events, share your experience. It is not about selling yourself. It is about being sincere and genuine about your work and your passions.

Wrap Up

If you want to become a TouchDesigner freelance, or if you are already one, there are several ways to stand out. Find your niche, develop new skills, invest in connections, and be your own boss. Nobody says it is easy, but in the end it is worth it.