First Job Freelancing - Tips?

Well, after about a week of advertising everywhere I could.. I finally got my first job.

The customer tells me that it's "For an up and coming cooking show and company." and asked me what I needed to know. I just messaged him back telling him what I needed (name of the company, ideas you have, colors you want) and I offered that if he wasn't sure about the design to make up some samples and color themes for him.

But I'm a little worried about theft. What if he just takes one of the samples and doesn't pay me? Can people steal it even if it's been 'watermarked'?

Any tips would be much appreciated.

Offer *free* samples? Hmm...

Check out http://www.no-spec.com/

Request he pay a 50% deposit before you commence work. Then if you're still worried, watermark the previews.

Don't over-watermark, and just make some wireframes and fill in the effects afterwords. Get a 50% deposit and be very clear as far as what they should expect, otherwise you'll be jumping through hoops and your work will never be done...