Graphic Design: My 1st Client.?

Question

Ok, so there is a company that wants me to create a logo for them. First of all once the design is done, what format, size, etc... should I use to give to the client so they can give it to the printers and other company's that will actually put it on other things? I will be using Illustrator or Indesign for the creation of the logo.

My second question is should I use a contract, and if so, can I make one myself, and what are the basics that need to be stated on the contract?

Finally, I need to figure out what to charge these people. I don't want to do an hourly rate because I feel kind of uncomfortable setting a rate and keeping track of my time spent. I also don't want to charge them ALOT because I am still a student and am happy to get this job for my portfolio, but I also will not do it for free.

Please answer thorough and provide any other information that may be important to my situation and you will get the 10 points for best answer. Thank You!

Answer 1

I recommend you to use illustrator and be sure to use effects and many layers

lots of colours

colours that match

LIKE BLUE AND BROWN ...

Answer 2

Hi there,

I'm a professional designer and learned what you're asking about by a lot of trial and error but then finding information that helped me.

First, always use a contract - I prefer the term "Letter of Agreement."  It lays out all the design parameters so that there is mutual understanding.  

One of my early experiences with paid logo design was that the customer wanted endless modifications.  This was in the 1980s BEFORE computer graphics; I did everything by hand.

I didn't have a contract (hey, I was a newbie back then) and it was a freakin' nightmare!

Even if you do stuff for friends and family (which you should be very careful about in general because of potential misunderstandings) always have a written agreement.  

Here is a manual that I got early in my career and it is a must for anyone doing paid freelance graphic design:

Graphic Artists Guild Handbook:

Pricing & Ethical Guidelines

http://www.gag.org/pegs/index.php

And here is one article on logo pricing:

http://www.curtoons.com/logo-design-pric...

This company is most likely hiring you because you ARE a student and your prices will be "free" or low.  You get the benefit of real experience and a piece to build your portfolio.  That is invaluable so treat them well.  They could be a source of future work and referrals.

Being a freelance artist means you're self employed and you'll need to learn the business part too - About.com Graphic Design is an excellent all-around resource for business and design basic essentials

http://graphicdesign.about.com/

Cheers,

BB