Originally Posted by
Ghost
It may seem a little pricey, but remember you will be potentially profiting off of his work. Think of it this way: the paintings your pastor does arent reprinted hundreds of thousands of times and sold worldwide for a large profit on the initial $200. I think thats the main difference. With comics you expect to make your money back (hopefully) and then some.
Sometimes people will do art for free at first, but split the profits with the writer. Normally thats too risky for most because if they arent well-known or published by one of the big companies theres no guarantee you will make a profit. I think in the profit breakdown the penciller normally earns the most unless the writer is a big name pro working with an indie guy. And then theres also the inker, colorist, letterer and editor to consider. Unless the penciller works digitally and does his own inking and coloring as well.
I dont know the exact fees that are charged by guys for hourly commissions. Some of them will also charge by the page instead. If you dont have much money to spend maybe try working with a friend that can draw well, or look for an amateur thats just starting out. They will normally be more flexible and possibly work with you on payment.