FAQ

While the internet has greatly increased the general knowledge-base of the average individual, the world of graphic design can still be a little mysterious.  This page will, hopefully, shed some light on how the industry works, and more importantly, how I work everyday.

How much do you charge for {insert job here}?
This is the all important question, but I’m afraid there isn’t a ‘one size fits all’ answer.  Costs can vary depending on the complexity of the work involved and nature of the project.  The best bet would be to email me your details, along with a description of your project and budget you have available.
Should I tell you how much I have to spend?
Knowing a budget up front helps give a clear indication of how much time can be spent on a project, and subsequently how much work I can fit into the time quota.  A budget figure also gives an insight into roughly how large the client is expecting the project to be.
How many revisions are included?
This is my most hated phrase in the design industry.  It seems to have stemmed from those cheap logo design websites that offer a ‘5 for $50 deal’ with ‘3 free revisions’.  It gives the impression that the work the designer creates is ‘wrong’ and needs ‘correcting’.  I always create designs with reasoning behind the graphics, therefore I don’t tend to work on a revision basis.  If a change needs to be made, it ’s not a problem as long as it fits within the proposed time quota.  However if the change creates additional work beyond the initial budget, you will be advised on any additional costs.
Is there a deposit required?  Why?
I work on a 50% deposit basis, where an initial invoice is generated to kickstart a project.  Once all work is completed, the invoice for the remaining balance is created then files are supplied by email.  I accept cash, check, or paypal transfers, but please note that your payment may have to clear before I start on your project.  It’s not that I don’t trust you, but from past experiences I’ve found it necessary.  I hope you’ll understand.
How should I contact you about a project?
The easiest way to contact me is by email (jason@saviordesigns.com).  While I don’t mind receiving phone calls, email is MUCH more convenient and leaves little room for misunderstanding.  I do ask that you make your emails concise and explanatory.  You have no idea how frustrating it is to be expected to design a 10′x10′ banner with no more description than “we want it to look cool….maybe some flames or something”.  If that’s the best description you can give me, we probably won’t be doing business.  No offense.

A Few Do’s:

DO research my work before contacting me
Projects often go a thousand times more smoothly when I’m working with someone who has researched my background and subsequently chosen to hire me because they like my style of work.  It allows for a more enjoyable project for me, and generates an end product that meets your original requirements.
DO explain how you know or found me
Having some kind of referral helps your email stand out, whether you’re a business owner in my hometown, an acquaintance of a past client or someone I’ve met before.  It shows that you’re genuinely interested in me and my style of work – not someone on their first time visit from Google looking for a freelancer.
DO tell me who referred you (continuation from the above point)
There are many instances in which I am hired from nothing more than word of mouth.  I greatly appreciate this gesture, and in return I often will send a thank-you or a small gift to the person giving the referral.

A Few Don’ts

DON’T send a generic or mass email
There’s nothing worse than receiving a generic email requesting a quote for a project that has also been sent to ‘X’ number of designers and design companies. Do your research into the work of the designer beforehand and choose one that suits your needs.  You’ll be glad you did!
DON’T expect to be #1 on my priority list
I understand that this point sounds a little harsh, but bear with me for a moment.  Being a freelance graphic designer is sometimes very difficult.  When jobs are scarce it’s easy to devote many hours a week to one client, but when jobs are plentiful I have to divide time as fairly as I can.  While my hope and goal is to give each and every client 100% of my time and attention, the reality is that I must be more efficient and streamlined.  Your project WILL still be completed in the time quoted, but if I don’t answer your phone call after 5 or 6pm, I may be doing other things (in this case, send me an email).  It also should be noted that I have a family to spend time with, and they play second banana to no one.  I’m sure you can understand.
DON’T let a bad experience with another designer keep you from working with me
Everyone makes mistakes from time to time, but don’t let the mistakes of another designer keep you gun shy.  Graphic design is of the utmost importance in business and all of the research is saying that businesses who don’t seek to employ a graphic designer will inevitably end up suffering the cost.
DON’T eat yellow snow
No matter how persuasive your friends may be.  My “childhood me” would thank you.