I have a degree in Art with a concentration in graphic design. How much do I charge an acquaintance for design

Are you planning to do a lot of freelance design work? There are proper best biz practices in place. AIGA and GAG websites would really help you with that.... ******BEST ADVICE I CAN GIVE YOU: Always use a CONTRACT no matter HOW BIG or SMALL the project is! You will be so GLAD you did...protects YOU and YOUR CLIENT! :)****** you can also visit http://www.graphicdesignforum.com for some great advice from other designers....read the newbie forum faqs it is packed full of GREAT INFO! Great people on the site...but we cannot really discuss Actual pricing on there, however there are tips related to it, w/out giving exact numbers - that is prohibited on there. Anyways, you should get a book called Pricing and Ethical Guidelines...refers directly to our industry. http://www.gag.org/pegs/index.php In general though, Every designer charges differently based on their experience, and how much their creative worth is....how is the quality of your work compared to others? ** NEVER DESIGN FOR FREE ** :) http://www.no-spec.com should help you understand why. :) Personally, I think that $15 is ridiculously too low. No reason to charge so cheaply! How much is YOUR TIME worth? If its only an acquaintance, and not a close friend or relative, I would maybe charge 30% less than normal.....I'd say though not to charge any less than $50.00 / hr for your normal rate...no reason to low-ball the industry! :) keeping it real, keeps you real as a designer, and you'll be more respected! Cheap designers never make it very far and end up getting walked on. Its good to learn the best biz practices as it WILL help you become more successful, I promise! :) Good luck in all you do! Valerie

I don't know where you are but here's the thing, you were being cheated royally. In Philadelphia the going rate at a business in the professional field for graphic design on the low end is $50 per hour. Depending upon where you go the charge ranges from $50-125. And that 50 buck company can be hard to find. The fee most commonly found is 75 dollars per hour. Using this aforementioned pricing since this is a friend of yours charge whatever it is you want. However if you are in need of money charge her the regular rate. I do graphic design as well if you can tell. And for certain family members, if they want something done, I may charge them a discounted flat rate like $125 for the package deal. So that way you are getting some compensation and the individual isn't constantly coming to you to try to get a free ride. And I feel that people appreciate your work more when they have to pay for it.

Valerie has the right idea. As for doing work for free, would you have any respect for a free gift after some time goes past? Keep your perspective and at least charge for your time. I have done 14 photo copies for a friend for $100 and there was no complaints. Spartawo...