You do not need one to start, you can earn and pay tax as a sole proprietor from day one. An LLC mainly does two things: it separates your personal assets from business liability and it looks more professional on contracts and invoices. Most creators form one once income is steady or a brand asks to contract with a business, not before. It does not cut your tax by itself. This is general info, not legal advice, so check with a lawyer or accountant for your state.
Start simple
You can take deals and pay tax as a sole proprietor with no paperwork at all.
What an LLC adds
It shields personal assets and reads as more professional on a contract.
Form it when it fits
Most creators set one up once income is steady or a brand requires a business.
It is not a tax hack
An LLC alone does not lower your tax. Talk to a pro about how it is taxed.