Write down a detailed explanation of each special-effects scene. For example: "Background is dark, outer space with stars. Stars are sparse and separated. The stars have a slight twinkle to them. Fifteen seconds into the scene, a trail of three streams of winding smoke moves through the center of the screen from left to right. Thirty seconds into the scene, a red, silk cloth drops from the top of the screen, waving, and falls behind the smoke disappearing into the bottom of the screen."
Refine your description of each scene, editing as needed. Detail your descriptions down to the slightest timing to ensure the fewest changes required of your after-effects designer.
List your project on at least two or more freelance project websites online (see Resources). Freelance project websites were designed to help professionals and producers find each other. Prepare to provide your detailed project description to any after-effects professional who responds to your listing.
Research all prospective after-effects designers before entrusting your project to any of them. Ask each respondent to provide you with sample clips of her work, and be sure to mention that the work must be verifiable. Some freelance-finder networks on the Internet require professionals to create profiles listing educational backgrounds, project backgrounds, and work sample pages. Check the profile and background of each designer before making your final selection from all of the respondents.
Communicate time limits and budget limits with your chosen after-effects designer up front. Be sure the designer understands that the entire project must be satisfied within those limits as a condition of hire.
Hire the after-effects designer who can perform your desired project in the least amount of time possible, for the best price and for the highest quality possible. If no one is able to guarantee completion of your project according to your deadlines, try to be flexible and adjust your deadline according to the time needed by the best after-effects design candidate.