I agree, the drive behind galleries that I see that most people miss is marketing, not flashiness. A good call to action, minimal flashiness in design, and top content will win out every time.
I would also agree with the suggestion that if you were hiring in house that you pay a salary that is fair, but encourage good performace with bonuses. If you make more money, they make more money
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I would also offer to barter their work for hosting, etc if they feel that they want to start doing thing on their own. And stress to them that the time at the office is YOUR time, and if they wanted to do anything at night, you'd be glad to give them a hand getting started. I think it's more like kids and booze - if you tell them NO NO NO, then eventually they are going to do it anyway, and without your support they will eventually just ditch you.
Just my
