I think one of the more valuable bits of advice that I've mentioned on both @TWC_pod and yesterday's great
@ScienceWriters Q&A about freelancing is: SEND OUT A SOFT PITCH so you're not initially sinking so much time in developing a full pitch. [thread]

Here's a skeleton of a soft pitch I sent yesterday on a walk (where my best ideas come from, IMO)

Subject line: offhand story idea

[salutations!]

I saw [SOMETHING INTERESTING, while being as specific as possible]. I'm interested in doing a story about [MY ANGLE.]

[GIVE EXAMPLE OF QUESTIONS I'D WANT TO ASK.]

"Is this of interest? Curious to hear your thoughts " /end

Does this work better if I'm pitching an editor with a preexisting relationship? Sure! But you can also tailor this to an editor you're cold pitching. Here's how I'd do it.

Subject line: Story idea from a freelancer: [TKTK catchy thing.]

Hi [editor],

[your salutations]

I am an independent writer based in TK, who's written for [...]. I have a story idea about [...] I saw [something interesting], and would want to do a story that focuses on [some new angle]. [throw out a few questions.]

Is this a story you'd be interested in? If so, I'm happy to share more details and answer any questions you may have. /end

One of the questions I've gotten the most is how have I been able to sell stories so fast during Covid. This is my hack that I think *everyone* should be trying. It leads to a better business model, too. (i.e.: you're capitalising a lot faster on your ideas!)