Thanks Deco,
I appreciate that. I'm still in the twilight zone where I get a bit of interest in my work but not enough that I can dismiss a client and not worry about it. I probably should have asked for some form of compensation but I guess its just getting the confidence up to ask without worrying about losing the deal.
Cheers
Cal
The first step to being a Pro is to act and think like one.....the images you create - and they are stunning - actually have zero dollar value to you. By this I mean you can't fill up your car or buy food directly with them, not in my world anyway. But to the client, publisher, newspaper, ad agency or whatever your images have a massive benefit and true dollar value - this is where images get converted to a medium the petrol station and supermarket understands and trades with.
Trust me, you are not in the twilight zone. Even if you were, the client must pay. From day one I charged and made sure the invoices were settled. Sure, I made mistakes - everyone does - but the rule of "never for free" has, with a very very very few exceptions, ensured cashflow has remained positive.
Ignore anyone who says "great for your profile" or "we pay next time". Refuse to deal with anyone who wants your work for free. I do get cheap or free requests and it feels great to turn them down. Be confident Cal, your work has higher value than nothing and remember you won't win every deal if you charge. Be prepared to lose some "clients" if they baulk at paying. Truth is, they are only clients when they respect your endeavors and pay cash like the rest of the planet.
If it's worth publishing, it's worth paying for.
And good luck. If you need specific advice, just PM me.
