At some point in your career you’re going to have to adopt the “successful mindset about being artist”—assuming you haven’t already done that.  Contrary to some stereotypical ideas about artists, getting paid for your artwork is not selling out.

The majority of creative souls, in the youth of their profession, often feel their work is above the din, creative, and worthy of contemplation by the masses.  Sooner or later, the reality is that you’re going to have to pay the bills, the rent, and buy food.  Why not use the gifts you’ve been given to enlighten humanity?  In so many words, earning a living as an artist means that you must be in the business of selling art, and reaping a reward for it.

Being a professional or an unprofessional will be determined by your ability to successfully sell your work.  This means taking yourself very seriously, and setting the standards of reliability and professionalism that will let your clients know you’re a person worthy of doing business with.

When setting a price for your work, make sure the terms are crystal clear.  It’s too often the case that artists are bashful in bringing up price and compensation for their work; and this can lead to a client undervaluing your work.  Any time spent drawing, redrawing, or making changes should be rewarded accordingly.

Travel expenses should be included if applicable, consultation fees should be included if you’ve been called in to discuss a commission, and the costs of any revisions that might occur.  It’s a balancing act, and if you play the game to win, you’ll walk away with both the commission and the respect of your customers in hand.