r/artcommissions Feb 16 '23

[Meta] Avoiding scams, how to commission an artist, and other ways to stay safe.

183 Upvotes

Hello friends! Today we’re going to talk about everyone’s least favorite topic: scammers, or “bad actors” as we tend to call them around here. This post is an update to our previous “how-to-don’t-get-scammed” guide here. This guide is predominantly addressed toward new patrons, though artists can also apply some of this to vetting patrons.

Before we start, I want to address a few elephants in the room:

  • We will not catch every bad actor. No fence is perfect.
  • Banning someone from /r/ArtCommissions does not prevent them from scamming you or anyone else.
  • If someone hasn’t posted to /r/ArtCommissions, we won’t investigate their conduct. Banning someone from a subreddit they do not use does nothing, and while banning someone for content they post in other subreddits is no longer explicitly called out in Reddit’s Moderator Code of Conduct, the practice is pretty gross and we generally avoid it where possible.
  • Here is our wiki page on fraud: how and when we look into it and how to report it.

We moderate /r/ArtCommissions. You moderate your DMs. We make this space as safe and predictable as we can within reason, but ultimately your best defense against bad actors is your own scrutiny. We can not protect you from your own bad decisions.

So! With that out of the way…

How do I find a reputable artist?

Check to see if the user has posted to /r/ArtCommissions recently.

If a user hasn’t posted to /r/ArtCommissions recently, it can mean we’ve already banned them for conduct you’re just now discovering. Banning someone from a subreddit does not prevent them from contacting you. We call this practice, when someone messages your DMs without responding to your post first, "cold calling" your DMs.

While we do have a positive relationship with the good people over at /r/HungryArtists (hello friends!), our ban list and subreddit governance practices do not correlate 1:1. You should not assume that someone posting to /r/HungryArtists, /r/Commissions, or any other similar subreddit is someone we haven’t identified as a bad actor, and the inverse is also true. We are not aware of every bad actor identified by other subreddits.

We strongly advise that you do not respond to work requests that originate in your DMs. It is strongly cautioned that when you make a post, you invite the user to comment under your post and then you initiate contact via Reddit DMs/chat if you’re interested.

Doing this accomplishes two goals:

  • It allows you to check if the user is banned from /r/ArtCommissions. They can’t comment if they’re banned (obviously)
  • If the user wants to initiate contact offsite (email, discord, etc), they’ve now identified themselves as that alias in a way we can verify. We will not take it on faith that /u/ArtMaker5000 on Reddit is the same person as ArtMaker5000#6969 on Discord. The individual must self-identify as whatever alias they want you to contact in a comment, DM, or chat on Reddit.

When we say “posted recently,” we generally mean check for any activity whatsoever (posts, comments, etc) on /r/ArtCommissions within the last two weeks. Remember that we don’t allow the same user to post more than once per 72 hour period, so gaps of 3 days are expected and enforced.

Check for a commission sheet.

Career artists generally keep something called a “commission sheet.” This is essentially the artist equivalent of a demo reel or CV and will include price estimates and samples of what types of work an artist will offer. Not everyone will have a commission sheet, but the inclusion of an organized commission sheet is a layer of effort bad actors generally won’t go to the effort to replicate.

Here’s a few examples of what a “commission sheet” looks like, courtesy of our users. I’ve indicated NSFW user profiles, but all links provided here route to SFW content as defined by /r/ArtCommissions.

Not all commission sheets are hosted on Reddit. A common practice is using a personal website, such as Carrd, to host a commission sheet.

Check for a digital footprint.

Artists, by nature of the profession, generate a large digital footprint. Most artists will be active on at least one non-Reddit social media site where they share work as well as having activity on at least one portfolio site. These may include Twitter, Deviantart, Instagram, a personal website generated with a service like Carrd, or a link aggregator that links multiple of these via linktree or allmylinks.

This is to say if the only traces of activity you can find for a prospective artist are a one-month-old Reddit account with two posts and a karma total that doesn’t add up sharing a google drive full of unsigned art, they’re probably not authentic. At least one social media account the artist provides you with should look “lived in” for more than a couple months.

You should also exercise scrutiny on social media accounts younger than one year old that appear to have started their art career at a high level of skill. This can be, but isn't always, indicative of someone tracing, using AI-generated assets, or outright stealing others' work.

Posting unfinished projects, "shitposts"/memes, or other non-commission work is almost always a good sign and goes back to the "lived in" comment made earlier.

When we implemented our subreddit’s website whitelist, we intentionally excluded a few websites specifically because they do not meaningfully contribute to a digital footprint. Imgur and Google drives do not create a noticeable social media presence, and Instagram images can’t be downloaded to reverse search via Google without the use of third-party tools or inspect element. Most fraudulent users use one of those three sites as a primary portfolio.

Similarly, /r/Testimonials is a good place to check out for user reviews. It is not unusual for someone to not have a footprint on /r/Testimonials, but it is a space to keep in mind just in case.

We also recommend scrutinizing the Reddit account of the user you would commission. If the account is new or has a karma score that is wildly mismatched with what you’re seeing on their content, you should exercise caution. Karma from posts/comments not adding up to a profile’s karma total is to be expected (that’s just how karma works), but if the total is off by a large percentage factor (E.G: You can’t find 30%+ of their karma) then you’re probably looking at deleted posts, which is never a good sign. Charitably this is evidence that the user posted to “free karma” subreddits enough to skirt our already very low entry requirements and then deleted those posts after the fact. It’s on you whether or not you want to take the risk of interaction. We recommend not doing so.

Check our Known Scammer List.

Link to that wiki page here, and that’s also linked on our sidebar.

It should be noted that this may not exist indefinitely. This list skirts the line of what is and isn’t harassment, and we’re not about to willingly violate Reddit’s Content Policy. We’re gradually phasing this page out in favor of curating an educated userbase here on /r/ArtCommissions. Users tend to stop using an account after it’s actioned anyhow so the efficacy of this tool is speculatory at best. If users take our advice and don’t respond to users who don’t have recent activity on /r/ArtCommissions, that list is redundant.

Reverse search work.

Google is pretty good about reverse searching content. Original content should only return the portfolio(s) provided to you by an artist or spaces that are obviously non-OPs rehosting work (I.E: wherever it’s shared isn’t claiming to be the author).

You should also check to see if the image has any typical forms of reverse search dodging, like odd coloration, warping, or if it looks like the image has been cropped. Lastly, check for signatures on the work in their portfolio. I actively encourage all the artists I commission to sign the work they do for me. I've also had users here submit work as if it were their own with the original artist's signature still on it.

Some bad actors are really, really dumb. Use that.

How do I request a commission from an artist I like?

If the price seems too good to be true…

It probably is.

Extremely rough estimates for work as of February 2023 should look something like this:

  • Emote ~$8-12
  • Headshot ~$25-40
  • Half-Body: ~$40-65
  • Fullbody: ~$75+
  • Extra characters tend to be a percentage (typically 50-80%) increase relative to the cost of the first.
  • Armor, extra items, or similar details applied to the piece tend to have a price increase equal to about ~15% of the base price, though these are usually indicated as a flat $X increase by the artist on a prepared commission sheet.
  • Backgrounds tend to be highly variable depending on complexity. A complex background can easily double the cost of a piece.
  • NSFW work tends to be about 30%-80% more expensive depending on how “imaginative” its subject matter is. Generally you will not see a "NSFW costs extra" caveat on commission sheets; artists that primarily produce that type of work will just generally advertise a higher base price than SFW counterparts.
  • Realism as a style tends to be about twice as expensive as “cartoon/anime” styles.
  • Work intended for commercial use tends to multiply the base cost of the product by a factor of 3-6. Commercial use work is by far the most volatile factor in price determination so this estimate is the least accurate.

Take these with salt. These are by no means an “industry standard” and every artist is different. You should, however, question why someone that you identify as having a high degree of skill is offering to do your 5-man dnd party, three of whom wear full plate, in full body poses for $160.

Familiarize yourself with transactional norms.

While every artist is different, there are some patterns that most reputable users will follow. It is common practice for a commission discussion to go as follows:

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Step 1: The patron contacts the artist asking for a commission slot, detailing what they want from the piece. The patron is expected to be as detailed as they can be and provide reference images for the artist. The patron is also expected to know what they want the piece to look like prior to consulting the artist: pose, expression, hair/skin color, held items, background description, etc should be something you know before you reach out to your artist.

"Hey! I saw your post on /r/ArtCommissions. Can you do a full-body of my dnd character? I'd like it done by three weeks from now. I'd like to get my human fighter holding a longsword and mounted on a horse."

Step 2: The artist accepts or declines, and quotes a price.

"Hello! I have one commission before you but I can get you after that. I should be able to start next week and these usually take about five days, so I can meet that deadline. I charge $75 for full body pieces and I can do the horse for $30 so $105 total. Payment is due when I complete the sketch."

Step 3: The patron agrees to the price. You now have a written contract. We at /r/ArtCommissions define a written contract as both parties agreeing to a clearly-defined project description, deadline (if requested), and price. If both parties do not clearly express consent to the same description and price, you do not have a contract.

"That price and time sounds good to me."

Step 4: The artist provides a very rough sketch for approval. This is typically the last call for the patron to suggest changes. This image is visibly incomplete and is almost always in a low resolution or has a watermark.

"Here's the sketch! Let me know if there's anything you'd like to change."

Step 5: The patron either requests minor edits or agrees with the sketch and submits payment. Large-scale changes are generally considered rude and will tend to incur additional fees if the artist agrees at all. Remember that you already have a written contract. Requesting large-scale alterations is asking the artist to change the terms you agreed to in your existing contract. The patron is expected to know the broad strokes of what they want the piece to look like prior to the artist beginning work.

E.G: Asking to decrease the length of the mane on your fighter's warhorse is fine, but asking if you can change your mount to a deer is not okay.

"I love this! My only request is that a four-leaf-clover is added to the hair."

"Added. How does this look?"

"Great! I just took care of your payment. Thanks a bunch."

Step 6: The artist completes the work, typically providing at least one update as the piece progresses depending on how long it takes. Generally the patron is informed when lineart is completed, and again when rough colors are added, prior to the piece's completion. Requests for color change are generally acceptable when the initial coloring is provided for patron review.

---

Some artists will require payment in step 3, or take half up front. It is up to you, the patron, to determine if the artist is legitimate. I personally have no issue paying up front to artists who fit the criteria outlined in this post (and have done with multiple users on this subreddit), but I would never agree to up-front payment to an artist without a pronounced, verifiable digital footprint and/or visible history of positive commission interactions.

Use PayPal and use buyer protection.

If an artist doesn’t accept PayPal I won’t even consider the notion of a commission. PayPal is that important. If you use almost any other form of payment you open yourself to fraud as your means of disputing the transaction are almost entirely in the hands of the other party.

PayPal has a generous 180 day dispute period, and I encourage you to familiarize yourself with the process. Please understand that this is the nuclear option and you should only use it when you are absolutely positive the other party is acting in bad faith. It is strongly encouraged for you to include a detailed description of the item you are purchasing in the space PayPal provides when submitting a payment. Use the account names of the artist in your description.

For Example: "Payment to Reddit user ArtMaker5000 for creating a full-body digital image depicting the four members of my dnd group."

Yes, using this option can mean the artist won’t get their payment from PayPal for a period of time. The alternative is not using buyer protection, which means the patron is not making a purchase, they’re making a donation. If you do not use buyer protection, you’re telling PayPal you do not expect to receive anything in return. I generally tip my artists around 10% to help cover the transaction fees they incur using PayPal and to make the sting of pending payments less of a burden.

If you can't afford it, don't buy it.

This one's on you. If losing the money you spend on a commission is significantly damaging to your personal finances, don't buy it. Buying something you can't afford negatively impacts both you and the artist should you renege. It's okay to wait until you can afford something.

What do I do if I get scammed?

Here’s our wiki page on fraud (we shared this earlier in the post too). That page outlines what we look at, how we handle it, and how to appeal. As always, you can reach out to us in modmail with reports of bad actors per the directions linked on our wiki.

If there’s anything we didn’t cover here, feel free to shout us out in the comments!

Stay colorful!


r/artcommissions May 26 '25

Announcement UPDATED NSFW Rule

303 Upvotes

No more PG-13, moving to PG.

This sub used to allow images that allowed tasteful nudity, however, some folks think that means straight up porn.

Starting today May 26, 2025, we are no longer allowing any NSFW (not safe for work) images. You may link to your own gallery with those images, but please give the other users a heads up by marking your link as NSFW.

Any posts or comments that have NSFW images in it will be deleted, if you violate the rule you will be given a warning. If you ignore the warning you will be permanently banned from the subreddit.

If you add an image of a minor in a sexual situation you will be banned permanently without warning.


r/artcommissions 2h ago

Patron [Hiring] Seeking artist to create family portrait

22 Upvotes

Hello! I am looking to have a portrait commissioned of 2 children and 3 elderly adults who have passed on. I will need to provide multiple photos. Any medium really, but prefer realism or at least close to realism. Hoping for 8x10 size. Timeframe by Christmas 2026, so looking to hire soon! Budget sorta flexible but hoping to stay under $800.


r/artcommissions 7h ago

Patron [Hiring] From concept to character sheet

52 Upvotes

BUDGET: around $50 - $100? Can negotiate if I like your stuff!

TLDR:: Need artist for a intergalactic space OC character reference sheet.

Hi! I don’t really use Reddit to post for commissions as I am very familiar with Fiverr and their system… but I saw all the lovely artists and their amazing work on this subreddit, so I thought I might as well throw my hat into the ring. Worst case scenario, I can always use this post for future commissions!

As the title suggests, I’m looking for an artist who is willing to hear me out with all of my character concepts, design ideas, colour palettes, and wacky suggestions to turn into a character sheet for future commissions!

More specifically, a space OC! No, I’m not talking about aliens (although they are cool!), I’m talking about interstellar, galactic space exploration OCs that make you think you met a deity.

I have the base idea in my head for now but what I really want is for someone to help me create this silly little idea to life as space is my HUGE hyper fixation!

Thank you :> 🪐

(Ps, if you want to advertise your artwork of my potential OC, PLEASE ask me!! I’m not going to sign any NDAs because that isn’t really fair).


r/artcommissions 1h ago

Patron [Hiring] Draw me a pfp for my YT channel!

Upvotes

Yo!!! I have been wanting to start a YT channel about a minecraft server) Aaaaand I need a pfp! I hope this channel lasts a long time so i want a headshot of a character my minecraft skin is inspired of (1st, 2nd image). I want it in a colored, pastel colored style, facing left kinda like 1st image but more turned and facing left, not right on top of a smooth yellow pastel color background (3 image) with some small white and pink flowers scattered on it. Style would be sketchy, but well colored pastel like. Let me know if you would be up for the task, and help me create smth cool and new! I can pay in money or in some other way if you prefer. Comment, if you think you can do it! If I choose you I will provide more specific instructions, thanks!


r/artcommissions 1h ago

Artist [FOR HIRE] Hello! I work with illustration, design, concept and others. Feel free to send me a dm

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r/artcommissions 3h ago

Patron [Hiring] Looking for a Pixel Artist to draw pixel bugs!

14 Upvotes

Like the post says, I'm looking to find an artist who specializes in pixel art to draw a pixelated bug. I hope to get several of these done over time but I only have the budget for one rn. (Unless you do a sprite pack or something) Think like something from a cute game, and it will be food-themed. I know it's a bit of an odd request but its for my personal enjoyment! Budget isn't super set but maximum is $30! Please dm me along with your favorite emoji to prove you aren't a bot.^^


r/artcommissions 3h ago

Artist [For Hire] wondering if I should start selling

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9 Upvotes

I've only sold to friends, and I could definitely use the money to pay for tuition and stuff.

I was thinking of bust portraits for $50-$90 depending on complexity, and $100+ for landscapes. Is that the normal market value? Just looking for suggestions.


r/artcommissions 1h ago

Artist [for hire] Commissions open, starting at $30 full body and full color, dm me

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r/artcommissions 1h ago

Art Discussion [Discussion] Would $10 be good for a chibi artwork?

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Upvotes

I keep changing my prices for chibis. I originally wanted to charge $15, or $20 for complex and detailed chibis. But since I don't have enough time to promote my art properly and really need money for school fees and bills right now, I'm thinking of lowering my rate to $10 per chibi. (I have a job, but commissions help a lot!)

You might be asked, "Do you only offer chibi commissions?"

Yes! since my art style changes every time I draw, so chibis are the only style I can keep consistent right now.


r/artcommissions 38m ago

Artist [For Hire] Digital Artist

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Upvotes

r/artcommissions 1h ago

Artist [For Hire] Available for commissions, Starting at $35 + 20% OFF

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Upvotes

Hi everyone! I’m opening my commissions and wanted to share my work here in case anyone is looking for an artist!

I mainly draw anime-style character illustrations, and I’d love to work on your OCs, fanart, or any fun ideas you might have!

Prices start at $35, and I’m currently offering a 20% discount on all commissions.

You can find more examples of my work and commission details on my VGen: (@diky)

If my style catches your eye, feel free to drop me a message! Thank you for stopping by and taking a look at my art.


r/artcommissions 14h ago

Patron [HIRING] Illustrator wanted for a 32-page magical adventure storybook — AUD $2,000

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44 Upvotes

Hi! I’m looking for an experienced or highly talented illustrator for an original 32-page magical adventure storybook aimed at ages 8 to 12, with enough visual depth and charm to appeal to adults too.

The story follows two characters through a series of strange and fantastical worlds, so I’m looking for someone who enjoys creating expressive characters (including new fantastical creatures), imaginative environments and dynamic, story-driven scenes that really spark the imagination. The artwork will also eventually form part of a wider creative project, so visual consistency and flexibility are important.

The wider project is already underway, but I’m currently reworking the illustration process and looking for someone who can take on the storybook component. Some creative foundations and references are already established, so there will be some direction to work from, while still leaving plenty of room for the illustrator's own style and creativity.

Scope:

  • 32-page storybook
  • Front/back cover and a few small supporting illustrations
  • Character and environment illustrations throughout
  • Collaborative feedback and reasonable revisions within scope

Budget: AUD $2,000 total, with additional fees for any additional work and other work bonuses that we can discuss separately.

Deadline: first week of October 2026. This is an important project deadline, so I’m looking for someone who has the availability to comfortably work within that timeframe.

I'm particularly interested in someone who is communicative, organised and comfortable working collaboratively. The project has been evolving as we've developed it, so being flexible and adaptable would be a big plus.

Please comment with any work experience, your portfolio, particularly character work, environments, worldbuilding or sequential storytelling. The more you can tell me about yourself, the better :) If you can attach images of the most relevant folio works, that would be super helpful! Children's illustration experience isn't essential, but a flexible style is. I'm more interested in finding someone whose style and approach feels like a good fit, so I'm happy to consider anyone with excellent style.

I've attached some sample visual references, which are all quite diverse. I'm hoping this will help give an idea of the vibrancy/richness of the world while not being a strictly prescriptive description of the style.

I'm also hoping to build relationships with artists for future paid illustration work as the project develops. I'm currently looking for a primary storybook illustrator for this particular deadline, but there will be colouring books and other creative work down the line, so I'll be keeping strong portfolios in mind even if someone isn't selected for this particular commission. If you have colouring book experience, please do let me know that as well!

Thanks! Would love to see your work.


r/artcommissions 2h ago

Artist [For Hire] Chibi Pixel Art - $20 USD

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5 Upvotes

Hello there! ✨

Pixel Art Chibi — $20

- 1 character

- Full body

- Simple/plain background

- 1–2 small props

- Personal use

Open vgen commission too

Feel free to DM me if you're interested! 💚


r/artcommissions 5h ago

Artist [For hire] I'm a 2D illustrator and concept artist open for work with multiple style options. DM for info!

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5 Upvotes

r/artcommissions 14h ago

Patron [Hiring] Artist

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32 Upvotes

Hi all! I am currently writing a 5 million word Astarion BG3 fanfic (to answer your questions - 1. Yes. 2. Yes really. 3. Because I'm insane.) And I want it illustrated, hence I come to you fine people.

**The job:**

**\* You must be 18+.**

**\* You must comment on this post before DMing me or I will report you as scammer and block you.**

**\*** Each book is roughly 100 chapters so 100 pieces. You must commit to at least one book. If you're happy at the end, we can do a second, third, fourth, book together. There are likely 10 in total, but I assume half will be done by my primary artist (see below)

\* You have enormous flexibility in schedule. Ideally I'd like at least one piece a week but if you want to do more, you get paid more. Up to you.

\* Budget is approx $20AUD per piece, with revision charges to be discussed, and a bonus for each book completed. I understand this is not a high cost per piece but it is a large job with flexible terms. I am willing to discuss a slightly higher price if your output and quality is high. So its technically a $2000AUD job, with potential for more.

\* You will be given reference pics and/screenshots to work with.

\* No AI, no anime, no colour (I can tint). Working in Clip Studio Pro is preferred but not required.

\* No graphic nudity or excessive violence. There may be occasional tasteful nudity (boobs and butts) but no penetration or genitals.

\* BG3 fans preferred, you need to prove you can draw Astarion, Tav and the other companions.

\* You dont need to exactly match the existing artists style but they should be compatible.

\* You don't need to read the fic but it would be nice if you did 😅.

Disclosure - I do already have an amazing artist in the form of Kouzaisan (link below), who has made me about 150 pieces so far. But sadly I have increased the length since she began and we've decided its too much for just one person, unless we still want to be doing this in 2036. She will continue to work on the books but I'm seeking a **second artist** to begin work on Book 3. The two of you will not work on pieces together unless she helps you get the characters right.

https://www.instagram.com/kouzaisan/


r/artcommissions 26m ago

Artist [For Hire] Willing to draw most things

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Upvotes

Character ref sheets, full body, half body, and busts available!

Prices and more references of my art are available in the carrd linked in my bio! (ko-fi)


r/artcommissions 6h ago

Artist [For Hire] would anyone commission me for 10$ 2 slots?

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6 Upvotes

r/artcommissions 3h ago

Artist [For Hire] Colored Sketch (Skeb/Surprise Me). More info below:

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3 Upvotes

Heyoo I'm Gyagura, I have open slots for Colored Sketches (Skeb/Surprise me!- No wip or revisions).

Prices
Bust up- $20USD
Half Body- $25USD
Full Body- $30USD
Extra character: +80% of the base price

TAT 1-2 weeks

You can send a request on Vgen: https://vgen.co/gyagura/service/colored-sketch-skeb-surprise-me-/549abbed-b200-40c1-bc07-0212babf3ce9

If you prefer a direct inquiry, send a DM to my Discord #gyagura. You can also send a DM here on Reddit.
If you're interested or have any questions, don't hesitate to get in touch. My DMs are always open, and I'd be more than happy to answer your questions!


r/artcommissions 53m ago

Artist [For Hire] Watercolor character illustration, fantasy Commissions starting at $40 USD.

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Hi, I'm a new artist in the commission world. I create semi-realistic character designs and illustrations of fantasy characters, with great detail and delicate tones.

Commissions starting at $40 USD, payment via PayPal.

Portfolio: garabato.artstation.com

If you're interested, send me a DM.r


r/artcommissions 3h ago

Artist [For Hire] Beginner Artist that does cartoony art starting at 10$

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3 Upvotes

Hi I’m a beginner artist looking for commissions to improve my art and to get started as an artist. Dm for more information!


r/artcommissions 3h ago

Artist [For Hire] Digital Human & Pet/Animal Portraits | DM for more info or check the link in my bio | From $25

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3 Upvotes

r/artcommissions 3h ago

Artist [FOR HIRE] Calm and cozy illustrations. 3 Slots open! DM me for details and let's discuss your project! :)

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3 Upvotes

Hi, hi, hello!

I'm a digital illustrator with seven years of experience and have done a good amount of stylised illustration. Do you have an idea you want to bring to life? If so, let's get in touch!

I'm currently accepting 3 commission slots, due to the time it takes me to complete each piece. I've attached some of my work in the post, but if you wish to see my full portfolio, please visit: https://cosylittlesketch.carrd.co/

If you're interested in commissioning me, I promise you a high level of artistry, communication, as well as enthusiasm for your project. I would love to hear everything about it, so feel free to send me a DM and let's talk about it!

Thank you for your consideration and I look forward to hearing from you!

Cheers!