"The full-time freelance reporter who makes a living off of bylines alone has long been dead, but I regret to inform you of the passing of the full-time journalist as well. For so many of us, the option of making a living purely through journalism - whether reporting, editing, copyediting, or even working in journalism support organizations - is a fading memory."
"Let me explain the concept of the Renaissance Journalist in a way that sports fans will understand: We are that utility, five-tool player who rides the bench but is an unsung hero of the team. We cover parental leave, make plays no one else deep in the game sees, and have a well-rounded life outside the sport. In 2026, we will go beyond the gig economy phenomenon that came about after the last recession, and beyond simply hustling to make monthly bills."
Full-time freelance reporters earning solely from bylines and traditional full-time journalism positions have diminished. A new class called Renaissance Journalists will combine reporting, editing, and journalism-support work with other income sources and side jobs to sustain livelihoods. These journalists act as versatile, utility players who cover overlooked beats, balance parental leave and life outside journalism, and adopt gig and alternative work beyond the post-recession freelance hustle. The shift stems from newsroom layoffs and a flooded freelance market. Renaissance Journalists maintain curiosity, pursue niche reporting, handle threats, file stories from remote locations, and translate varied experiences into long-form projects or audience-specific reporting.
Read at Nieman Lab
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