Myth: free work pays off later in exposure

Myth: free work pays off later in exposure

"Do it free now, they'll pay next time" sounds smart. In practice, your first price becomes your forever price with that brand.

Why it matters: brands log what they paid. Charging $0 sets the anchor at $0, and "next time" rarely arrives at full rate.

Simple example: you post free, hoping for a $500 deal later. Renewal comes — they offer $50, because that's the gap they're used to.

Better than free: a paid pilot. "My rate is $500; for a first project I can do $300." You're paid and you've set a real anchor.

Your move: if a brand can't pay anything, ask for a testimonial and a referral in writing — not vague "exposure."