What’s a Photoshop noob worth an hour? How much should I propose for graphic or web design services as a start-up?
If you are just starting out in the industry, you may still have these questions at hand. You may feel reluctant to set your amount by thinking the samples mentioned come from senior designers. After all, the cost of a graphic designer increases over time.
Based on forums and surveys, the average rate of newbies are as follows:
$15 – $35 per hour – for the complete newbie who has a reasonable knowledge and skill on Photoshop
$65 – $85 per hour – has produced paid works and has a reasonable experience on graphics and web design with a team. Uses Photoshop or Illustrator for every work.
$75 – $95 per hour – has mastered Photoshop and produced paid works on his own. Can also do Photoshop tutorials.
Bear in mind that this is just the general range that novice artists make and clients agree to pay for. These prices will help get your name out in the market while ensuring you don’t get underpaid.
Graphic and Web Design Business Tricks: Avoid Getting Stiffed
It is bad enough to get lower pay when you are starting out. But to get stiffed after completing work fast is a misfortune that every artist dreads.
Steer clear of this trouble by knowing these tricks to secure your hard-earned graphic artist/designer salary:
Require a Deposit
Are you charging a deposit before taking in a project?
Asking a deposit gets rid of untrustworthy clients right away. As with your service rates, the deposit amount may also vary according to the project. For example, a $500 project may require $200 to $250 deposit.
Generally, a 50% deposit serves as a secure payment for the artist. For big projects with extensive scope and bigger charge, the deposit may be lowered down to 25%-30% of the total price. Clients who refuse or complain about deposit charges are bogus customers. Be firm with the deposit and you can weed out the phony clients from the credible ones.
Require a Contract
Another way to gain solid security for your transactions is through a contract. Get an airtight graphic design contract from experts.
Contract Mint provides specialized contracts for different lines of freelance work. These contracts clear out uncertainties and highlight gray areas for your client’s legal obligations. A generic contract you can download for free may not cover your needs and rights as a graphic artist. That is why you need one that can cover the loopholes and also get you a stress-free and the most lucrative transaction.
Where to Start Salary Negotiations as a Graphic Designer
You grow in your craft with every project you work on. You hone your skills, gain experience, and acquire more clients. It is only reasonable to get a higher pay as you develop your skills. If you are wondering where to start salary negotiations as a graphic designer, take a look at your projects at hand and the urgency they demand.
If your working schedule has been fully booked for three solid months but more projects are coming in, it is time to raise your rates. This is the perfect time to uncover your market value.
How much should newbie freelancers charge for their services? Knowing the average hour price of both novice and senior designers will give you a framework to base your own professional fees.
