Yes, I share the maquette building process with the writer, the art director and the scientist as I develop the illustration.
Making maquettes is just part of my process. It seems like a lot of extra work, but it save me time in the long run and gives me better results. I don't get paid extra for making them.
How do I quote fees? A small magazine like Ranger Rick pays relatively modest amounts compared to some other clients, but I still want to provide them with as much quality and extra value as I can.
Keep in mind that a painting can have a life and a potential for earning you income beyond the initial commission. If you own the copyright, then a few months after it appears in print, you can use it in your own books, prints, tutorials or whatever, plus you can sell the original.
I share the videos and social-media posts because it's just fun. More than that, the coverage raises awareness both for me and for the client, so it's a win/win all around. As long as the illustrator lets the client lead off and be the first to share, most print clients are grateful if you can generate social-media buzz, because very few clients could afford to pay a video team to produce content like that. I believe in the mission of a wildlife magazine for kids, and I want them to win.
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On YouTube: Painting Realistic Dinosaurs
I agree with what you say about modest fees, from clients who may not have a big budget. When I did illustration work, fees varied quite a bit. However, I always worked to the same standard, regardless. The way I viewed it was, every job I did was an advert for any potential future jobs.
ReplyDeleteThey all ended up in my folio.