Matthew Sturtevant

Sounds great, but the reality is that there aren't a lot of resources for the sole proprietor. Such was the discovery of Matthew Sturtevant, 30, a young, talented photographer in the midst of growing his clientele and business. After earning a university degree in photography five years ago, Matthew now has his own studio in Austin and recently bought a house. "I love being a homeowner, but the expenses from that and from my studio and equipment really add up. Several times I have thought I finally have saved enough to afford health insurance and then something comes up that I need the money for."

Matthew used to work part-time at an outdoor gear supply store which provided him health insurance, but when he quit that to devote all his efforts to his career, so too went the coverage. Matthew is happy with his professional progress. He's had several exhibits of his work in the area and has been contracted by such big name clients as The University of Texas Performing Arts Center and various local singers of national fame. However, like other artists (writers, musicians, painters) most of whom work on their own, "it's hard to justify the cost of health insurance considering all the other expenses I have – lenses, lights, phone lines, film, etc."

As Matthew puts it, "if I had A/C in my car and healthcare coverage, life would be great."