Knowing what to charge for work can be tricky. Is it a flat rate, daily charge, per job? Be sure to get all the details…
Henk Dawson: The cost of an illustration is based on the usage. For example, an illustration used for a presentation will cost less than it would if the same illustration was used for an ad campaign. Another important factor is complexity. When requesting a bid on a project it’s important to have the following information:
• Description
• Media (eg: web)
• Duration (eg: one year)
• Geographic area (eg: USA)
• Size (eg: 8 x 10 inches at 300dpi)
Neil Maccormack: Generally, I try to figure out how long the job in total will take. I don’t charge by the hour so it goes on a job-by-job basis. So the more complicated the job, the more changes that are made, then the more I would charge. I also have to [consider] factors like electricity and rendering charges.
Paul McCrorey: In my proposal template, I have a section that clearly states if any changes are required, and the associated charge. Problems will be minimised if all these things are discussed and understood by both parties upfront.
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Image © Henk Dawson
Quotes taken from the ‘Going it alone’ freelance feature, originally published in issue 38 of 3D Artist. Available to buy now, available with worldwide delivery, from the official Imagine Publishing online store.