PLEASE READ AND COMMENT! I NEED FEEDBACK ON THIS SUBJECT BEFORE I MAKE A DECISION.  

EDIT: I have received no response or feed back from anyone. Before I end up changing anything I need to probe the 'market' I have to see if this idea will fly. I can promise you that if I do not receive some kind of idea from everyone that I WILL BE CHARGING FOR THESE. I am not trying to be a butt, but I need some kind of sound off. Please, read through my edits and LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU THINK.

I've gotten enough requests for pony backgrounds that I feel I can ask commissions prices for all the work that goes into designing these pieces. The backgrounds will still be free use for all once made, as long as you link it back to me. Just to give you an idea of what I go through to make these, I will explain the process that is involved.

Not only do I have to do a hefty amount of research for each request (1-3 hours), but then I have to sit down and sketch the project out. (2-4 hours). I then have to find a color scheme that fits and color block the whole thing. (3-8 hours). On average, I spend one quarter of a whole day, 6-8 hours PER BACKGROUND. That is a lot of time to work on something for free. Especially since I upload the layers, too.

I want to be perfectly clear with all of you. I do not, under any circumstances, begrudge those of who I did backgrounds for, for free, but I am a college student with homework to do (and books to buy). I hope all of you understand. So, here is how this will work.

I will need:
Setting (WHERE in Equestria)
Time of day (if it matters)
Any other specific directions


$5 flat rate or 400 points per background

What I would like to hear is everyone's opinion on this. Is this a fair price? Would you be willing to pay these prices for the quality of the work?

If everyone feels this is a fair option, this will become my new policy. Otherwise, I may able to work out some kind of trade or compromise.  

Thank you all! I'll be waiting for your feedback.