Designers - Animators - Fine Artists
Now days it is expected that you have a website. The website is your portfolio where clients can see your work and where you can share with other artists and designers your latest stuff.
Your Domain Name
Start now. Brand yourself. If you're lucky to have an odd name you might be able to register it, if not, come up with a unique name for your company.
Go to www.networksolutions.com and type in your name and click search. This site will tell you if your name is available. If not, it will indicate variations that you might use instead. But don't register with them. Save registration to be done by your hosting company, it saves you a step and probably some money (see below).
Once you have a domain name chosen (i.e., www.joeschmoedesign.com) you need to find a hosting service. The internet is loaded with companys that will host your site. Costs vary depending on the services they offer.
I use a company called WEB.com. A basic website hosting plan will cost $9.98 per month. They will even register your domain name for free.
Designing Your Website
You have several options: Design the website yourself, hire a web designer to design one for you, or buy a template.
Designing the site yourself offers you the best flexibility but you need to know how to use a program like DREAMWEAVER or use one of the online design sites.
If you have the money, hire a pro. This way your site is sure to look professional.
You might also try "WordPress". Wordpress is a free online web site development tool. It's not too difficult learn and is very flexible.