What is an appropriate pay range for this/these?

[hephalumph]

First off, I know that the amount a cartographer expects to be paid will vary from individual to individual, based on their level of skill, the tools they use, and whether or not this is a hobby or profession for them. And that's the main reason I am asking for an appropriate range instead of specific quotes. I have no idea if I will even be able to afford what I'd like to have done, and so am trying to get a rough (very rough) estimate before I get too far into putting together a proposal of sorts.

I am developing a roleplaying world, currently using 5th edition D&D rules. I have done a LOT to create the world the game is being played in, modifying not only the core races but classes and equipment, and many other minor things as well. Aside from the system/mechanical development, all of these things have been created with 'fluff' or flavor as well. And it is growing to the point I think I might try and market it as an open campaign world. But to do that, I will need high quality artwork including good maps.

There are three continents which would each need a decent map drawn. And within the main continent, 13 separate kingdoms plus the 'Crown's Land' (essentially a 14th much smaller country, which is home to the High King who rules over all the other kings). All 14 of which would also need decent maps drawn. And currently, I have marked out 34 larger cities and a few dozen smaller towns - at least some of which will need detailed maps drawn; the number could vary drastically, depending on cost and the artist's desires - a minimum of 10, I'd say, and up to all of them; 60 or 70+ town and city maps.

And, if I decide to make it more of a campaign book instead of just a setting, I would like a few battle-maps; outdoor and indoor maps set to a 1"=5' grid. Again, this number could vary drastically, but I would estimate at least 10 and up to 40 (from 1 per 2 character levels, up to 2 per character level).

Now, I know a LOT of these maps, I could find online; I could even find many which I could legally use in a published book. But I would much rather have a consistent style and feel that comes with one artist/cartographer (or a very small group of them). I could also cudgel together various resources myself - I am a very amatuer artist and map mapker, but I am not wholly without skill. But I would much rather have something that shows I am serious about this, if I do decide to move forward. The work of a true professional.

So... what would a reasonable (rough) price range be?

• all 3 continents (global map)
• 3 continental maps (the basics already exist, but they need refinement and to be re-done in a more professional manner - and most features are open to adjustment/editing).
• at least 10 and up to 60/70+ town and city maps (and/or possibly 10 or a dozen highly detailed, and the rest rough maps).
• at least 10 and up to 40 battle maps (both indoor and outdoor).

I'd also be open to offering a percentage of sales, in lieu of some or all of the up-front payment. If that were done, what terms would you consider reasonable?


Also, in addition to the pay range(s) for the various maps; what would be an appropriate time frame?