10-06-2014, 04:27 PM
This reply is probably way past its use-by date but my 2 cents is, while you definitely shouldn't do work unwillingly for free, and expect it to be a normal thing, everyone's experience, situation and boundaries are their own. Don't simply accept everyone else's parroted view because that is what is considered the "right thing" to do.
If you feel like you will benefit from it and have fun, then by all means go for it. If you feel you need to test out the client/artist workflow for yourself without too much stress if it's a first time deal and you are unsure, then go for it, just don't be under any illusions.
I personally tried going down that route of little/no pay for "experience" and for me ( I work in a non art job to pay bills atm) it totally wasn't worth it. I decided it was better to do work for me, rather than for a pittance for someone else. I get approached fairly regularly (why is it always through dA?) to do work for nothing or for <$50, and I just quote them a rate of $30-$60 an hour depending on how excited I am by the gig. If they can't handle that then I wish them well with their project.
For some things I will work for royalties. One example is for a Canadian experimental music label that asked me to do some work for them, I wouldn't normally, but I liked their concept and tracks so I accepted. I also got a bunch of writing work through that contact which is now being published and released through their concept album releases. Doing work for nothing can help, just be aware of what you are signing up for!
Your situation might be different. Consider your own situation and make your own decision. Don't take someone else's opinion as a rote learning just because it sounds good. Good luck mate!
If you feel like you will benefit from it and have fun, then by all means go for it. If you feel you need to test out the client/artist workflow for yourself without too much stress if it's a first time deal and you are unsure, then go for it, just don't be under any illusions.
I personally tried going down that route of little/no pay for "experience" and for me ( I work in a non art job to pay bills atm) it totally wasn't worth it. I decided it was better to do work for me, rather than for a pittance for someone else. I get approached fairly regularly (why is it always through dA?) to do work for nothing or for <$50, and I just quote them a rate of $30-$60 an hour depending on how excited I am by the gig. If they can't handle that then I wish them well with their project.
For some things I will work for royalties. One example is for a Canadian experimental music label that asked me to do some work for them, I wouldn't normally, but I liked their concept and tracks so I accepted. I also got a bunch of writing work through that contact which is now being published and released through their concept album releases. Doing work for nothing can help, just be aware of what you are signing up for!
Your situation might be different. Consider your own situation and make your own decision. Don't take someone else's opinion as a rote learning just because it sounds good. Good luck mate!