DPs: How do you balance passion projects with paid work? Is 60/40 realistic?

Hey everyone,

I'm Tanya Volkov, a DP, and I've been wrestling with this question of balance lately. I've got a feature concept I'm itching to shoot with my AMIRA, maybe some V-RAPTOR XL for specific sequences, pushing boundaries with lighting, thinking SkyPanel S60-C and Helios Tubes. But then there's the reality of client work, which often means steady gigs with my FX6 or C70.

I recently heard the idea of a 60/40 split, 60% client work for income, 40% passion projects for creative fulfillment. It sounds ideal on paper, allowing space for growth. However, in practice, it often feels like one or the other consumes my time. I've tried scheduling dedicated 'passion project' days, but then a well-paying commercial comes up, and it's hard to say no.

For those of you who've been at this longer or found a rhythm, how have you personally balanced creative ambition with the need for consistent income? And did you find a ratio like 60/40 effective, or does it shift constantly?