The Business Behind the Scenes for Freelance Filmmakers

  • 2025 Education Session

Date: February 20, 2025

Time: 2:15 pm – 3:30 pm

Cost: FREE

Location:

LOOK Cinemas Theater 4

657 West 57th Street

New York, New York 10019

Brought to you by The Freelancer’s Union

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A career in freelance film means juggling creative projects with legal and financial responsibilities. Whether you’re an emerging filmmaker, a visual artist, a writer, or any kind of creative, you’re not just an artist—you’re a freelancer running your own business. So, how do you protect yourself, secure fair pay, and avoid common pitfalls?

Join Freelancers Union for a dynamic session designed specifically for creatives navigating the freelance world. We’ll cover everything you need to know to safeguard your career, including:

  • Understanding Your Rights: What the Freelance Isn’t Free Act means for you and how to leverage it to get paid on time.
  • Contract Basics: How to spot red flags, negotiate terms, and protect your intellectual property.
  • Getting Paid Without the Hassle: Tips for pricing your work, handling late payments, and writing demand letters that get results.
  • Business Essentials: How to manage taxes and securing the right insurance.

Whether you’re a director, editor, cinematographer, producer, designer, or any kind of freelancer, this session will arm you with the tools you need to thrive—not just survive—in your creative career. Bring your questions for an open Q&A with experts from Freelancers Union.

Join Freelancers Union to learn how to secure your payments, protect your intellectual property, and negotiate strong contracts. We’ll discuss key legal protections like the Freelance Isn’t Free Act, plus share tips on managing taxes, insurance, and whether forming an LLC is right for you.

This event is FREE and open to the public but you must REGISTER IN ADVANCE

About The Speakers

  • Freelancer’s Union
    Director of Freelancers Hub

    Jalen Vasquez serves as the Director of Freelancers Hub, a coworking space operated by Freelancers Union in partnership with the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment. In this role, he…
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  • Freelancers Union
    Executive Director

    Born and raised in Brooklyn, Rafael Espinal became New York’s youngest elected official at age 26 when he joined the State Assembly. The son of Dominican immigrant union members and…
    Read More


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