Free-lance for a student

I'm a senior in high school and would really like to make some extra cash. I learned html/css/php when I started high school, but my efforts in web design were impeded by my interest for game development. Since then I have become quite proficient in Java and C++ (mainly on the GNU/Linux platform). However, I don't think I'm going to be able to get a job with programming due to my lack of experience and my ignorance of real-world tools/development. I've decided to come back to web-design in hopes that I can make a little bit of cash doing something I enjoy.

My past experience includes making a few sites, and a bit of experience using the Code Igniter api (php). The only problem I ever had with web-development was my lack of artistic ability (I never thought my sites looked as good as others).

So my question is what would be the best way for me to get into free-lance web development? Should I create a couple of fake sites so I can show them to potential costumers in regards to what I'm capable of? Also, should I concentrate on these sites being editable by the customer by implementing some sort of server side content loading?

Thank you for your time and effort,

Joseph Pond

Creating a portfolio of your work is never a bad idea, no matter what your vocation.

If you plan on being a one-man freelancing operation then you will most likely need to work on your graphics skills. Websites are ultimately virtual advertisements for a lot of clients and an attractive domain is very critical to the success and professionalism of modern day web sites.

There's a lot of ways to make a website attractive without having to know all the fancy photoshop tricks. When it comes to inspiration and learning how to make something look good Google is your best friend.

There are plenty of free CSS templates available out there... as long as you can put the site together using a pre-made template I'd say you'll do OK.

Thank you for your advice.

Where would be a good place for me to start looking for freelance work?

I notice there is a sub-forum here, but it does not seem to have an influx of potential clients.



Regards,


Joseph Pond

Thank you for your advice.

Where would be a good place for me to start looking for freelance work?

I notice there is a sub-forum here, but it does not seem to have an influx of potential clients.



Regards,


Joseph Pond

You can also try other freelance website like http://getafreelancer.com/ (http://getafreelnacer.com/) ,etc.