I want to share my complete process for a commission piece from initial brief to final delivery, because the professional workflow is rarely discussed as clearly as the artistic process.

Step 1: intake. I send a standard brief questionnaire (character description, intended use, resolution needs, deadline, reference images if any). I don't start work until this is complete.

Step 2: quote and contract. Fixed price for fixed scope. I email the quote with a clear description of what's included and what costs extra. Contract signed, 50% deposit paid before any work begins.

Step 3: sketch phase. Three thumbnail directions, client picks one. Two rounds of sketch refinement included. Additional rounds billed at hourly rate.

Step 4: color rough. Full color at reduced resolution for approval. This is where most significant changes are made — catching problems at this stage prevents expensive reworks later.

Step 5: final render. No new structural changes at this stage. Texture, detail, final color grading.

Step 6: delivery. High-res PNG and source file. Invoice for remaining 50%. I follow up 14 days later if payment hasn't been received.

The system isn't romantic but it works. The artists I know who have the most difficult commission experiences are the ones who skip steps, especially the brief and contract.