Very well spoken Hungryman
If I may I'd like to add to this rant ... I came to the design and adult world via a different road then most. My background is in television broadcasting and the arts ... I have been freelancing for nearly 14 years and every once in awhile we run into New cameramen or directors that Whore themselves out at cut throat rates. I am proud to say that my best client. some one who's been with me for close to 5 years and whom refuses to work with anyone else but me, was a client that went for the rock bottom prices. She had hired me to do a reshoot and was so impressed by my preformance that the rest is history. I have since recieved Lots of work from her, some great referal and Awards from govermetn offices for the work I've done ( the last being a documnetary for lifetime achievement awards)
This goes on everyday, Just last week end I lost a great Gig for the UFC and WEFC (Ultimate Fighting Championships - Martial arts) Broadcast to an under bidder .. the rate this guy offered was $3000 to 4000 dollars lower then mine. I told the client to please (in my most polite voice) throw away my bussiness card... Harsh? Maybe, But I had wasted four days preparing this broadcast and then had to call 5 crew members to cancel. Not a fun job. My piont? Simple I seen the show that was shot and it sucks, it will not get accepted by broadcasters there is no doubt in my mind and in three months when the Next fights are scheduled, I'll be hearing from this guy, becuase he knows he screwed up. ( besides he's seen my work for UFC, UCC, Wrestling and Boxing.
The short of it very simple. What we do, whether it's mainstream or Adult deisgn, can be viewed (and should be viewed) as Advertising. THat design reflects the company. All the surfer knows is the design they don't know the company it self.. it's the design, well placed "buzz" words and content that sold them in the first place. So take pride in what you do, And stand up and protect your rates. A fair dollar will get a fair design. A well spent Dollar will return the benefits for years to cum .. And please keep in mind that a design should be changed at least once a year. Keeping fresh with today's trends (hee hee, there's a upsell for in it for Ya)
Good luck my friends and may 2003 Bring you wealth and reward.