Shooting My First Commercial: Lessons, Growth, and Turning Passion Into Purpose

If you have been a long time reader of my website you know I have been doing this for over 12 years and actually started blogging when it first became popular. If you are new to my blog then welcome and I hope you stick around to learn more. I recently signed a deal to shoot a commercial as an influencer and it has been a wonderful experience because I have been making a modest income from writing for years but this was the first big paying job. 

When I shot my first commercial using only my phone, I had no idea what I was getting myself into, but I knew I was ready to learn. With prompts and guidance from the writers and directors, I discovered just how much creativity, preparation, and persistence go into turning a vision into reality. What started as a simple idea soon became one of the most rewarding and eye-opening experiences of my journey as a creator.

Lessons I Learned Shooting My First Commercial

1. Your phone is more powerful than you think.

You don’t need fancy equipment to start. With good lighting, steady framing, and creative direction, a phone can produce incredible results. I learned that storytelling and composition matter far more than expensive gear. I found this amazing phone mount that is magnetic and has a suction cup on it that has helped me get some great shots. 

2. Preparation makes everything smoother.

Before shooting, I rehearsed my lines, double-checked my angles, and followed the prompts from the writers and directors carefully. Every little detail helped me feel more confident and professional in public. When filming in public you definitely have a lot of eyes on you and that was one of my biggest fears. I am a pretty shy person, but once I started and just kept going regardless of what people thought I was able to get some amazing content and move on like nothing happened.

3. Collaboration is key.

Working with others, even virtually, helped me see new perspectives. Taking feedback from the creative team allowed the final product to shine brighter than anything I could’ve done alone. The lines were simple, instruction was thorough, and they were very helpful with any questions I had. I am so thankful to all the amazing companies that I have worked with and can’t wait to work with more! I have been reviewing products, writing articles for companies, and adding links and content to my personal work for years, it is so great to know how much success I have had and how it helps others to grow as well. 

4. Mistakes are part of the process.

There were takes that didn’t go as planned, lighting that shifted suddenly, and moments I doubted myself. But every mistake became a lesson, and every challenge pushed me to grow. Luckily I was able to start slow and get into my own creative frame of mind. It also helps that I have a sense of humour and can articulate my point without too many struggles. 

5. Passion and persistence will take you further than talent alone.

I wasn’t born knowing how to film or write scripts. I learned by trying, failing, and trying again, and that’s what made all the difference. I have been studying the art of photography and film, acting and writing, as well as trends that people have been following to create engaging content. 

How to Land Your First Paid Gig as a Writer or Influencer

If you’re dreaming of turning your creativity into a side hustle (or even a full-time career), here are some practical steps that helped me get started:

1. Build a portfolio, even if it’s small.
   Start sharing your writing, videos, or creative projects online. Every post is a sample of your work that potential clients can see.
2. Collaborate and connect.
   Network with other creators, small brands, and local businesses. Offer to write, film, or promote in exchange for experience. Relationships often lead to paid work later.
3. Show up consistently.
   Post regularly and stay active in your niche. Consistency builds credibility — and people start to take you seriously when they see your dedication.
4. Pitch yourself confidently.
   Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you. Reach out to brands or projects that align with your values, introduce yourself, and share what you can offer.
5. Invest time in learning.
   Read, take free online courses, watch tutorials,  anything that helps you sharpen your skills. Every bit of growth improves your value as a creator.
6. Celebrate small wins.
   That first small brand deal, freelance writing job, or social media partnership? It matters. Those “tiny” steps are how momentum builds.

Never Give Up on Your Dreams

Turning my love of writing into a successful side hustle didn’t happen overnight. There were countless late nights, self-doubts, and rejections along the way. But through persistence and hard work, I realized that the dreams we chase with heart and dedication have a way of becoming reality.

If there’s one thing my first commercial taught me, it’s that your story, your voice, has power. You don’t need perfect tools or a big budget to make something meaningful. You just need passion, persistence, and the courage to start.

So keep creating, keep learning, and never stop believing that your dream is worth the effort. Because it absolutely is.