FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Being a freelancer, my pricing is most dependent upon the client. I usually like to charge a flat fee rather than a per hour fee per project. Per hour fees can wreak all kinds of havoc. If a project takes more time than either party expected the extra cost can create tension for both sides. Flat fees are so much easier. Yes - if a project takes more time than I expected I lose some. If it takes less time then you the client might lose a bit. But in the end having a known price relieves all the tension. As for specifics, I usually like to break up my fees into thirds - 1 - a one third down payment. 2 - second third payment upon concept approval 3 - final payment upon delivery. Of course you business might want to offer different terms. I'm always open to whatever methods a client would like, just as long as there are clear terms of agreement.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I try mightily to keep up with the latest industry standards, but in this day and age is a challenge to say the least. Take for example, web design. If you've been paying attention you would notice that there's literally been a steep revolution going on. Just look at any standard site created just 5 years ago - then look at a site created within the past six months. If you could put them side-by-side it's like night and day! Like most in my field, I use the Adobe suite to create almost all my work and Adobe is constantly expanding the capabilities of their programs. So keeping up is part of the job, but is still a challenge.
- How did you get started doing this type of work?
If I weren't doing this I'd be waiting tables. All kidding aside - I started drawing when I was a kid. I was VERY insecure growing up and it was the only thing that separated me from everyone else. It was the only thing I could do to attract any attention or admiration, with the result being a much needed sense of self esteem. So what else would I do?!