Reitveld

If you have the chance to get the model, then you can do wonders to make the rendering far better. However if you are just enhancing an existing SU rendering, then I would base it on hours spent. For example, just adding a few people, trees, shadows and sky could take an hour and so could cost $100. Don't forget to factor in the phone time while they tell you about the project and what they need done. Also, make sure you add a 'scope creep' clause. Architects may ask for more and more than what was initially bid... so additional changes cost additional fee.

I use Photoshop all the time for such renderings. It is a great tool. I've never got the hang of Illustrator, however I've seen folks produce nice work using that software also. Tip: Use your Dodge, Burn and Gradient tools upon your textures. Makes them stand out more.

Woot! Thanks for the update! Thea really does produce some mean looking images.

Working in the Architectural industry, I would argue that we work in the plans so much more than elevations. Elevations are updated after everything else is picked up (plans, sections, then elevations). In a pinch for time, sometimes things don't get picked up. Changes happen and its the elevations that take it in the shorts. I would contact the Architect and ask them whats what. Then as was said before, try to work on other areas until an answer is set forth. Man, I wish Architects would call me to build a model just to fact check their work. Ahhhh how good life would be.

Yes I do have local attorney for my contracts, etc. But as the company is national, they could direct you the the correct lawyer in your area.

Yes, Ernest is right. Ask you lawyer the legal limit you can get and have them write a letter to the real estate agents asking for damages. They will freak, and then negotiate with you to an acceptable level. As for where to find an attorney. I called many in Kansas City and asked them if they handled illustrators and creative works. In the end I went with polsinelli shughart. They are a national firm and can handle the fine art of ... arts. If there is an office in your town, I would recommend them. Contracts, Contracts, Contracts. Always, Always, Always.

"I will definitely make you are satisfied." OMG

I once had a client who wanted a small child in the foreground with a slingshot hanging out of his hip pocket and wearing a raccoon hat. I thought he was joking... but he was dead on serious. I did eventually find one on FormFonts.com It's not a model, but I find it really hard to find good 2D images of minorities (black, asian, middle eastern, etc.).

Same here. My contract says I may use the images for self promotion and marketing. If a client wants an NDA signed or a waiting period before I can use the image, then I will respect that. If the project waiting period is too great, then I would adjust my fee to account for marketing time lost.

I agree Cameron. It is hard to compare pricing without seeing examples. I offer rendering services that range greatly depending on the image type, quality level, complexity, and timeframe involved. I make sure that a client understands what they will receive for this price (beyond the end product… number of revisions included in price, number of check renderings, flexibility, included design services, etc.). Clients should know that some low-fee companies may not offer these and the client pays for each change/addition. What I find frustrating, is the clients who call who are just collecting numbers from different artists. Artist X says $1200, Artist Y says $800, and Artist Z says $500. And they choose the lowest bidder. I’ve learned that when I have that type of client on the phone, they don’t want to view portfolio examples, they just want a number. I then have a choice. Do I lowball a number just to get the client to call me back (and then I explain what they get for that number) or do I give them an honest number knowing they won’t be calling back because they are looking for the cheapest price possible. As for the other end. I really appreciate the clients who know what an expert can offer and take the time to judge me against my competition. Some people don’t care about price as much as quality and competence.

palm slap. I think I'll just start calling myself a pixel pusher.

Kansas City, Missouri, USA ZooBoing Illustrations http://www.ZooBoing3D.com cheers and thanks!

LOL. I've not yet called myself a Donkey Art Whore yet, but I might give it a try the next time I'm asked... I bet I get the same glass-eyed look I usually get. ... my mother was right, I should have been a "digital doctor"

It came up again this weekend, and I tried your words. Seemed to go well. ... but after 5 minutes of them telling me about an Architect they use to know in their neighborhood (didn't know their name or the company name) I excused myself to refreshed my bourbon and coke. Your advised me well... twice! I'm still on my quest for a title that everyone understands.

You can always look for / post up the request on the ASAI (http://www.asai.org/) but they are primarily American Illustrators. I'm guessing you have something similar in your country.