Freelance Graphic Design/Photography :)

[PacHerp]

Hey guys,

Most everyone knows that I'm going to be beginning my first Gecko Breeding season late next year, but I also wanted to talk to you guys and see if you could give me some ideas about getting a freelance graphic design and photography business going.

sooo... here we go....

I have been working in the Graphic Design Industry for over 5 years. I enjoy Print Design, but Photography has always been my 'calling' so to speak.

I specialize in Print Design, including: Logo Design, Business Cards, Brochures, Posters, Cards, etc.

Do you guys think you could give me some company name ideas? or know how I could better promote myself as an artist? I'd really enjoy that!

also, if you need any work done, I'd love to help anyone out in the Gecko Community, you guys have quickly become like a family to me!

all of your opinions and suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

 

[T&KBrouse]

Hey Brittney,

Theres alot that can be done as a freelancer to get seen. Its alot of footwork, but considering you won't have to work around deadlines (unless you set them) and you have full artistic license to create what you want, a little excercise never hurt anyone.

Are you wanting to submit to publishers? Or are you going to self publish?

K

 

[PacHerp]

hey, thanks for your reply.

I'm not sure yet, I'd like to just self publish, and not get into the whole 'middle man' thing. Most of the work I have done has been for non-profit organizations, family businesses, etc.... so I've worked directly with my client.

 

[malt_geckos]

You've got a client.

 

[T&KBrouse]

Okay, if you want to self publish, look around for a printing company that will do self publication. (I thought one was the same as the other, but, man, I was so wrong!) When you find one, also find out what their minimum is for an order. Now, when you have them print, also have them put your name or company name down as the publisher. That is YOUR publication. They just print it. (Did that make sense?)
Ta da! You are your own publishing company, then.

Now, to get your name and your artwork out there, theres limitless possiblities.
If you want to stay local, you go around to all the small businesses with your work and talk shop with the owner or manager. If they will allow you a small bit of space, offer to set up, free of charge a display of your stuff as consignment. Come in once a week to restock and add new pieces as you create them. When you restock, have them cut you a check for what was sold. (You'll already know how much you left, so if you're missing, say 5 cards, you restock them and the business cuts you a check for 5 cards, minus their take.) Alot of businesses will take in local and fledgling artists this way. After a while of constantly moving product, most likely they will straight-up order from you.

Another way, should you want to branch out a little further, is to compile a nicely made business cover letter complete with some samples of your work. These can be sent to businesses in other states and main headquarters of national chains (like Barnes & Nobles and such). You are your own publishing company, so they can order directly from you.

Another avenue is by donation and auctions for charity. Donate one or two of your pieces to a gallery. Then, when an auction comes up, have a piece available. When people know your name, they will collect what you have.

These are just some ideas. I'm not sure where you would like to go with your talent. The only limits you have are the ones you make for yourself. I did freelancing for quite a few years and really enjoyed it.

Hope this helped a little. (and made sense...)

K

 

[PacHerp]

wow, that is a great help. The last time I worked with a printer, it was in a small town, where everyone knew each other... haha. So there was no need for any 'publisher' information and such, they just printed what I needed at a discount, and I was on my way. haha.

thanks for the help! I'll update you guys when I get things up and running!