Why is there a retainer fee?

The samples that are provided early on in the process are the product of actual work. These samples are artistic works and are the results of time spent creating them. The retainer serves two purposes - that of gaining a minimal commitment from a client and securing some renumeration for work from me. The samples are sufficient for some people to rework into their own images based on my original vision and skill in creating them. Therefor, they warrant some degree of payment. It is too simple for artists and graphic designers to be taken advantage of in this stage of design development. I might add that if you want an award-winning, professional artist (such as myself) to create your designs - this is not an uncommon practice.

Why are many of the rates nonrefundable?

Because the samples you get aren't returnable. Once viewed - they can be captured and used as-is or as a basis for additional work. The work you get in the various stages is valuable. As answered in the above question the samples alone are works of art that may be used by a client who cancels a project with me in order to use them as "templates" in an attempt to complete the remainder of the work themselves. Rather than run the risk of nonpayment or making the client feel pressured to complete a project to the end - this allows the client the freedom to cancel at any stage and for me to receive payment for work already done. The nature of the image formats, samples, and the Internet allows even the samples to be utilized by a client. With this payment structure the client does not need to feel uncomfortable taking the samples and walking away from a project and I do not get put in the position of having an issue of theft of services. Again, this is a common practice with professional graphic designers.

Why an upfront rate at all?

If the above two explanations didn't clarify that I can explain it this way: Producing low-quality samples that look like they were sketched on a napkin doesn't convince a client that my work is high quality. It doesn't "sell" my work or my ideas. It's hard to visualize the end-result if it's too "rough." So, my samples are very likely finished works in that they were originally done in the higher resolution a client requires, done in layered elements (to allow for manipulation later) and were simply sized-down to a thumbnail sample. Why do this? Because if a client likes a sample right off the bat I can then provide them the full-scale master file without having to redo it. That would take extra time, I might not be able to replicate exactly some little detail that inspired them in the sample. All reworking a sample serves is to take a longer turnaround time and introduce variances. So, my samples probably have a full-scale, ready to go counterpart if the need arises. This all boils down to charging an upfront rate because, in a sense, I've already done the work just to bring you the samples. All I await is to finalize or revise because I've spent the hours and effort before you even see your first sample.

What's the difference between the Intermediate Option of saving my work for six months and the more expensive option of saving working files?

The files in the Intermediate Option are for my use only. The more expensive option of saving working files will allow the client to have the finished files for their own use when the project is completed and a payment/receipt method is chosen (Email, Download, CD-ROM). This is helpful for a client that has put time into determining which samples work for them but isn't in a position to commit to finishing them but feels they will in the future. It allows us to more easily "pick up" where we left off.

Why is there a fee for reworking?

Largely, the same reasons exist for having a retainer fee. The reworking (which includes an additional 2-3 samples based on more in-depth client input) represent an amount of work not guaranteed to proceed to completion (the client may see the additional samples and cancel the project at will). The additional samples are original works and the result of additional time. If the client cancels the project at this point they still will have received 4-6 quality samples of original art and concept for a minimal investment and very little commitment. It is a win/win situation.

What software do you use?

I work on a Windows/PC platform. My software ranges from Adobe Photoshop (pixel based graphics) to Adobe Illustrator (vector based graphics) and a multitude of plugins for each. I also use 3D rendering software for some projects when appropriate. Bryce, Ray Dream, FontFX, and other rendering applications are used in some cases. In some cases I use proprietary software that is not commercially available but generates common file formats. When working on interfaces for software (including buttons or icons) I use a variety of popular graphic formats as well as Microangelo for creating icons.

How does a Work-Change Order work?

Sometimes a client decides part way into the process that they wish to make changes or additions that represent a substantial change of direction. This could be anything from changing or altering design elements to requesting features that require me to implement new software applications. If changes are made after samples have been narrowed or design stages complete it could require that a Work-Change be made. Sometimes clients realize that there are possibilities they haven't considered and wish to change their project to take advantage of these designs or features. Work-Change orders happen... they can't always be avoided. But, with careful planning and open communication we try to keep these changes of direction to a minimum.

Are two or three samples enough to finalize a design?

Usually. I'll let you in on a secret... I've been known to produce more than two or three samples, at my own expense, if I think there's some ideas to explore and it doesn't interfere with the timetable. I don't always do this, but I try to make the samples have enough variation, yet contain identifiable elements that make a discussion productive. From those samples, then the subsequent discussion, we can usually nail a final design down. However, if you feel you need another round of two or three to pick from that's easy. I'll take the feedback I get from the discussion after the first set and make those adjustments. The second set of samples is usually right on for a final approval. Although I do charge a nominal fee for each sample set it is an affordable way for you to explore your options without a great deal of commitment.

Is the CD-ROM option compatible with my computer?

In most cases it is. The finished image files are typically in JPG, GIF, TIFF, or BMP format. If working files are purchased those can vary in file format. However, I purposely burn the CD "at once" (to finalize the index) to be readable on standard CD-ROM drives. I also do not include sophisticated or lengthy filenames or folder names to ensure more compatibility. The files are usually left on the CD-ROM's root directory and not buried inside multiple folders. This helps more systems in reading basic formats and files. As for the working file formats - it is up to the client to find a useable software application to use the possible files I create. An example would be a project that was done using Adobe Photoshop and the finished file might be a JPG but the working files are PSD (layered Photoshop) format.

Why don't you advertise your graphic design services?

I do so sparingly. Graphic design work is only a portion of what I do. I find that when a potential client appreciates my work enough to contact me directly it means they are less likely to be "window shopping" for services. I don't do casual or "just add water" graphic design. If you want the quality and attention of an award-winning professional then that's what you'll get. If you were wanting economy art that looks like everything else these days then you should really pass me up.

Kind of cocky, aren't you?

You bet. And you deserve every bit of it for your hard-earned money that you choose to spend on my work. I'm a professional artist that gives professional results. Would you want anything less?

Can you recommend a cheaper service?

Nope. Why would I? Just do a search on the popular search engines and pick the first one you find. In my experience, you get what you pay for.

Are you really that good?

I believe so and so do my clients and customers. Just have a look around this site and make an educated decision for yourself. It's your money and you must feel it's worth spending on me.

How long does it take to begin?

Usually those first few EMail exchanges are enough to start on samples. From there, the timeline can vary depending on the project. Another variable is often overlooked by clients - their own response times. If it takes a client three or four days to respond to an EMail then that can consume a week very quickly and make for slow results. However, if your timeframe allows for this then I'm happy to be patient. Just remember to "pad" your expectations for a completion date by including your own response times.

A note on communication and deadlines...

If you don't wish to continue the project with me that is acceptable, of course. Please have the courtesy to let me know - rather than vanishing into nowhere. This rarely happens, but when it does it reminds me of common courtesy and the need to make something clear... I don't wait forever for a client to make up their mind at any stage of work. I can't. I have other projects that are subject to time constraints and when I outline a possible date to finish a project - that date is from the day I outline it - not a week later. If you need an idea of how long it will take to finish something - understand that it depends a lot on when we finalize designs in the various stages. I can only give estimates on how long I anticipate my work will take.

Anything else I should know?

Yes. Clients expect professionalism. So do I. Too often I'm reminded that graphic design work is often saved as the last part of a project (developing a website, creating a product line for retail, software, etc.). This also means that a client budget has usually reached the end of the line. This combination of "I want it done right away" and "I don't have a lot of money to spend on this" is not an effective way to handle a part of your project that could make or break its success. Graphics and style play a huge role in a businesses success and image.

I suggest you plan and prepare so we can make the most of your valuable time and budget. Your timeline is also important to me. It's also important to me that it be a realistic one. Art takes time just like programming, R&D, creating a storefront, etc.

Sometimes the pressures of time, money, expectations from a client create a working environment that is counterproductive. Just as a client if free to cancel a project at any stage - I too reserve the right to cancel a project.

It's not my intention to make any prospective client nervous by saying any of this. However, you're hiring a professional - not a door mat. I'm happy to have your business but am always prepared to sever a relationship if need be. When you've done as much work as I have you will have seen it all. I expect a business relationship to be just that. Clients demand it of me - I deserve it of them.

Preparation and open communication foster good results for both parties. I vow to extend preparation, professionalism, and open communication to you.