The question boils down to usage. A one time fee (printed once in a certain market, twice in a second, once in a third) is usually what most people work with. The system of pricing for this was defined by the stock photo houses and the illustrator and designer agents picked up on this. (ie you charge more for art that the client will be using forever, in a variety of web/print formats). Less, for say the graphics on a website or magazine that turns over every month (one time usage). 2 things to watch out for- working for comp and a client without a secretary/office/staff. Both are wrning signs of someone with not much more money than you. Also, don't be humble, ask for a lot, a lot more than you want or feel you deserve. The worst thing tht can happen is they say no (my dating philosophy as well). Either you're lucky and the client will foot your bill, or they'll haggle you down to budget. The proper profesional response to "how much" here in New York City is "whats your budget like". I usually frame my price in the context of... ok for that money, i can give you x, y, and z. However, you're still looking at x amount for production and massaging the final revisions. I then name an appropriate price for the rest. Be honest, look them straight in the eye, and if you can't do something- say so. my attitude is always- They want to use me, great, if not, theres always Wunderman. mitch