I want to discuss how I approach the revision process on commissions, because revisions are where the professional relationship either strengthens or deteriorates.

Before the revision request: I confirm what the client saw in the reference images and what they expect to see in the delivery. Most revision requests are traceable to a misaligned expectation that wasn't caught in the brief stage.

Receiving revision feedback: I acknowledge it, paraphrase it back, and confirm I understand it before making any changes. 'You'd like the character's hair to be lighter and the background to be less detailed so it doesn't compete — is that correct?' This costs thirty seconds and prevents misinterpreted revisions.

After revisions: I confirm the delivery meets the expectation before marking the project closed. 'I've made the adjustments — does this meet what you were looking for?' gives the client a clear invitation to confirm satisfaction or raise any remaining concerns while the project is still active.