i was told in the home decor/furniture/lighting business, some designers only get paid royalties and the more established ones get a “retainer fee”, which is sort of like advanced payment of royalties, in addition to royalties - does anyone who work in this business as a freelancer get paid by the project or is it royalties only?
Like Deez said, it all depends on the situation, what you’re bringing to the table, your cashflow situation, and how much faith you have in the sales potential of the product (and the company selling it). I’ve billed hourly for some stuff, and taken a point and a half on others. I’ve never got a retainer AND royalties, but I’m sure some do.