Welcome to my blog! In this post I will be talking about Freelance work.

1. Always get a contract from the client
This is a big one. No matter how small or big the job a contract is extremely important. Verbal agreements aren’t good enough either. It should be in writing. This way the artist and the client has a clear picture of expectations.

2. Get a deposit.
I’ve been freelancing professionally for a little over four years and this is always a necessity. There have been jobs that I’ve had where I didn’t get a deposit and almost immediately regretted it. It’s easier to get an individual to pay you versus a business (because accounts payable moves at a snail’s pace.) but it’s not wise to take that chance. The client could either not pay and still get your work or drag it out so you don’t get paid for months after the work is finished.

3. Don’t fall for the “can you sketch this for free?” pitch.
A telltale sign of an indecisive client is anyone that shows enough interest to commission you but may not want to pay. I avoid these situations like the plague. My answer is simply sketching is a part of the process and that process is not free.

4. Don’t quote too high or too low.
For business deals I’ve always found it smart to simply ask “what is your budget for this project?” If the client is unsure then just give them a quote. For example my hourly rate is $60. I can either use that or give a flat rate which is one price for the entire project.

5. Be prepared for revisions.
Being a digital artist gives me the advantage of easily copying my art. As I work I try to anticipate what my client may think. They may want some different options. What I’ll do is work on a piece and create a backup that’s not completely finished (line art for example) that I can easily change just in case. I give three revisions before the work incurs overages.

6. Be cordial and prompt.
Most of my business is through email but it’s still important to meet deadlines and be professional. I don’t always agree with the choices my clients make but at the end of the day it’s a product they want to be happy with.

7. Using an electronic payment system is a good idea.
I hate waiting for checks when it comes to freelancing. Whenever possible I use services like Square to accept fees. This eliminates wait time.