CompuServe Messages

Michael, I'm still struggling with the whole concept of pricing myself. One thing that has helped me is the file 3DRATE2.TXT available on here. I don't know which library I downloaded it form though. It is pretty helpful, I say pretty because it really depends on what your client can, and is comfortable with paying. I am quoting my hourly rate at about $45/hr which is in the middle of what I have heard people charge. I think that most of my quotes will be a flat fee for the total project though. I use a PAR for my video output so I charge a low rate to lay to video. If I had to use a frame by frame output I'd charge more. I have seen 30 cents per frame advertised. I'll charge less than that. At that rate your video would be $405.00 just to put it to tape! For your project I would try to get around a $1000 (depending on the detail wanted) plus an amount that you feel comfortable with for laying to video. If it only takes you 20 hrs to do the rendering and animation you are doing well. I would be glad to help you anyway I can, I don't have a paying project going on right now. Just working up a demo tape to cover everything from titling to a full architectural construction and walkthrough. Some points to consider when quoting: – Are you going to be working from DXF files? If you are it will go a lot quicker than working just from a sketch. – If the area is reflective polished marble I'd charge more than if it is carpeted. Reflections take time and work! – The total amount of realism needed. If you are just giving an impression of the interior (layout) or a photorealistic walkthrough with small details like light switches, plants, glances through windows. I'd charge more for high realism. Don't take my advice as definitive. There is always someone on here that knows more than I do. -Matt