Wilmar Dik

I am Wilmar Dik. Since 2008 professional photographer in The Hague. Here is my: photography portfolio and LinkedIn. Besides my work as an image-maker, I like to dedicate myself to photographers and freelancers. I also joined the Photography Chain Table of platform ACCT at the invitation of DuPho. At the NVJ, I stand up for the interests of photojournalists. From my experience as a photographer and advocate, I sometimes write about the challenges and opportunities for freelancers.

Fair payment for self-employed in culture impossible without solid research on billable hours

by Wilmar Dik
23 April 202524 April 2025
10 min read
ACTUAL, policy, Featured, APPRECIATE & DONATE!

A starting rate of €27 an hour without proper research into billable hours within the AV/Film sector is not Fair Pay. It leads to a net annual income below the minimum wage and is not sustainable, not fair and certainly not future-proof.
The creative sector has a right to a fee system based on the reality of freelance work: with varying assignments, unpaid time, and little economic security.
As long as we do not set a standard for realistic calculations in the Netherlands, Fair Pay in name can be unfair in practice. Serious steps are needed for a sustainable creative sector: independent research on billable hours, clear enforcement and real involvement of freelancers in policy making.

The new self-employed law on the Belgian model - better protection for freelancers?

by Wilmar Dik
14 April 202528 April 2025
4 min read
policy, Featured, Photography, CONTINUED, APPRECIATE & DONATE!

In Belgium, unpaid work without a contract is prohibited and there is a social safety net for artists. This approach provides more security and prevents market distortion. The Netherlands could learn from this to better protect self-employed workers.