Becoming a YouTuber has been my ideal career choice for a few reasons. But if I’m honest, I’ve always felt like I arrived at the train a little too late. One thing I always wished I had access to was a no fluff Small YouTuber growth tip. I couldn't find it so I decided to create it with My Journey To Full Time Youtuber.
Eight years ago, I made the jump to take my business, Willie Shaw Films (formerly Shaw Photography), full-time. At that time, I was already married with two kids. Looking back, I’d still have done it, but I wish I’d started sooner. Between client work and being a dad of young kids, like most of us, I never had the time to make personal videos on YouTube with the hope of building an audience.
If I could go back and tell my younger self one thing, it would be this:
MAKE THE TIME. IT WILL BE WORTH IT.
This journey isn’t easy, but I’ve committed to publishing one piece of YouTube content every week for the next year.
My Plan
The plan is simple:
Talk about what I know. I’m sticking to my expertise and experiences.
Have fun. If it’s not enjoyable, it’s not sustainable.
Involve my kids (when it feels right). They’re part of my life and my journey.
Batch content whenever possible. Life is busy, so efficiency is key.
Week One
This blog will be my way of documenting what’s happening—progress, challenges, and everything in between. I also hope it can serve as a guide and give Small YouTuber growth tips with my journey to a full-time YouTuber to future creators on their journey to becoming full-time YouTubers.
As a small creator, I’m finally starting to see things happen.
Here’s where I currently stand, along with some advice if you’re looking to secure brand deals.
I just landed my first brand deal with Hohem, a smartphone gimbal company.
I believe this happened because my recent videos have been hyper-focused on the iPhone 16 Pro Max as a filmmaking tool, paired with content on filmmaking advice, gear, and tips.
As I write this, my YouTube channel has 1,297 subscribers.
So you don't need a huge following to start getting brand deals.
And here’s what my current situation is as I write this.
I’m shooting a video, editing another, wearing my baby so he can nap, and listening to my second son ask for a snack.
To say I have a lot going on is an understatement.
But if I can do it, you can do it too.
Here’s to week one!
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