What should you pay for good graphic design?

That is always the question prospective clients want answered. How much? Clients should rightfully expect the best possible price for the work they want produced. I am always willing to talk to clients about pricing guidelines and work estimates. Recently I read an excellent synopsis and guideline to graphic design prices by Hensher Creative. My hourly prices are actually significantly less than the average quoted, because I live in largely rural mid-America, where budgets are more modest.

About my pricing

I have found through the years that the fairest way to charge for my work is a standard price per hour. I do not charge "per page" for website work because while initial setup and design concepts may take a good amount of time, often after that is completed an individual page may take just a few minutes to complete. I do not think it is fair to my clients to charge a larger fee for something that takes me little time to do. Work is charged in 15 minute segments. I consider it part of my job to help clients achieve a good product in an economical way. I do have a $50 minimum charge. All deposits are immediately applied to ongoing work.

I am happy to give general estimates of time upon description of the specifications of the job. Contact me and let's talk about what you need. I never charge for an initial consultation or estimate, nor do I charge for emails, advice, and general help.

Contracts and deposits

I use a standard graphic design contract for my work, and ask for a deposit from all new clients. The deposit amount depends on what total work will need to be completed. In general, I bill monthly or at a project's (or major component) completion, whichever comes first. Clients receive a detailed invoice which breaks down exactly what I have done for each unit of time. Clients can use PayPal or a regular check to pay me, and those details need to be decided before each job.

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