Well let's see if I can say this without offending anyone.

Everyone knows that we give freebies away and it is a way to not only to save othes money and give out gifts, but it also shows others the quality of your work.  Knowing that you give out worthwhile freebies draws others to your sale work.

The issue others have with freebies is as you said undercutting other vendors.  Like Paloth says, try to be unique.  Don't just go and look at what others are selling, do some research or to Renderosity's wish list to see what people can't find and what they do want, whether it be free or not.

We try not to copy anyone, we try to be very unique, and trust me now a days it is difficult.  Not like it use to be when we all first started a long time ago.  The field was really open a long time ago, but now it looks like all has been created....but guess what, that is not accurate.

We are creating something now, that we researched and from what we have seen, only one has been available and it was for free,  this item was not created specifically for Poser, so it will be as we see it unique and specifically created for Poser users.  Others can use it in other programs, but like I said specific to Poser.

We have been creating for years and we have been copied many times, it is just the luck of the draw, it bothers us, but this is a competive area and you have to be able to take that.  As an upcoming vendor will have to realize this also.  If you do the best you can, you will be seen and you will get a following.

Always remember, take the extra time it needs to create good and unique quality work.  You will receive the respect from all, whether it is free or not. 

We totally give respect out to others that have put the time into any prop/figure that is surely quality work.

I think the worst thing that happens when you give out freebies or sale items that you work really hard for, is when someone actually steals your creation and gives it away for free or sells your hard work under their name.  That is a real bummer and totally unethical.  Be forwarned that will happen to you, I think it has happend to all of us over time.

Sharen