Someone earlier asked me how I price my art. My formula?
Minimum wage for my state: 9.47
Years I’ve been professionally doing art: 6
For each Semester of school, add $5
so 9.47 x 6 = 56.82 (move the decimal to the left, and round up, so $6)
9.47 + $6 = $15.47
+ $5 for a semester of anatomy and perspective.
$20.47 (or just $20)
Then I factor that into hours it takes and give them a lump sum because telling people $20/hr will scare them off.
This isn’t for everyone and you may either say that’s too high or too low, but it’s what I am comfortable with and that’s what matters. I know i’ve devalued myself before, but now that i’m comfortable in my shoes, I feel confident in asking for more, and so will you.
And if you don’t like my prices and you think my art isn’t worth what I ask for, then either a.) spend 20+ years learning art yourself or b.) go to someone who is cheaper because it took me way too long to love what I do. It’s a tradeskill. It IS a skill and yes some may be more inclined towards it, but those same people took the time to learn it and if you want art and you want it good and up to your standards, then you’ll pay what they’re asking or save up for it.
There are SO many artists out there, being a shitheel to the ones you like, but can’t afford, will not do you any favors.