Are you ready to begin the stimulating journey of writing a children’s book? Writing a children’s book is undoubtedly an exciting process, but you have to make sure you hire a professional children’s book illustrator to give it life. In fact, children’s book illustration contributes significantly to capturing the attention of young readers and improving their imagination of the story.
Now, hiring a good book illustrator is not an easy job, but worry not because we will make things easier for you. Here is a thoughtful guide on how to find an illustrator for a children’s book:
Define Your Vision for Your Children’s Book Illustration
Before you start the hunt for Children’s book illustrator, it is essential to have a crystal-clear view of how you want your book to be. You should have an idea of children’s book illustration styles, stylistic techniques and themes that go well with your story and brainstorm about how you want your book’s illustrations to be. Do you require full-color or black-and-white illustrations? What book illustration style do you envision – cartoonish, realistic or abstract? Consider the age range of your audience and the themes of your story. The illustrations should capture the overall tone and complement the story.
Finally, prepare some references and samples that represent your style to share with the illustrators.
Research and Explore
Once you have a clear vision, the next step is doing some research. You can visit platforms like Behance, Dribble or Instagram— online free galleries where many skilled illustrators exhibit their art. Look online for groups regarding children’s literature and illustration, and make inquiries with other authors, advisers and publishers. Researching and exploring are the main approaches that will help you hire the right illustrator.
Review Portfolios
The next step is to make a list of illustrators you like and look through their portfolios. Focus on illustrators with the style that suits your idea of the book. Note how they use color, composition and character design. See if their previous work had the right tone and mood for the story. Look for illustrators experienced in children’s books who can work within your budget. You can also request samples from the shortlisted individuals before making a selection.
Remember, an experienced children’s book illustrator can adapt their style to match your story’s tone, even if their portfolio shows a range of styles. The most important thing is finding someone with the skills, experience and passion to do justice to your story.
Evaluate Reviews
Next, check reviews and references from authors they have worked with. See what they say about the illustrator’s creativity, work quality, communication and ability to meet deadlines.
Communicate Your Requirements
Without a doubt, the most critical thing in any type of group work is communication. Meet (in person or via video call) with your top choices. Discuss their artistic vision for the book, experience, availability and rates. You should clearly communicate your requirements, deadlines and budget in advance but be open to suggestions because field experts can suggest things that may be better than what you have in mind.
This will help make sure your artistic visions align and make it easy for you to choose a book illustrator who shares your enthusiasm for the project and finalize the contract.
Finalize Contract Terms
This is the step where you finalize things with your preferred illustrator, and by that, we mean the terms of the contract. It will include a work description consisting of the number of illustrations, project timeline, and payment schedule. If you want to hold the right of ownership of the book’s illustrations so they cannot be used anywhere else, be clear about that as well as the royalties. A well-constructed contract is vital for ensuring an effective and, consequently, a successful partnership. You can also hire a lawyer to help with the contract finalization.
Bonus Tip: Get Feedback and Revise Accordingly
Now, this one is not about hiring but getting your children’s book illustrations right. Request some sketches from your illustrator and forward them to mixed demographics like a beta reader panel, making sure to include children and adults. Their feedback will help determine the suitability and effectiveness of the illustrations. You should also take advice on the panel and employ it to improve the sketches until you get them spot on.
Final Thoughts
Yes, it’s not easy to find a good children’s book illustrator. But with the steps we mentioned above and a little trust in your instincts, you can find an illustrator who will turn your vision into a beautiful book that appeals to your audience the right way. So, take your time to research children’s book illustrators, look at their portfolios and make sure their style matches your vision. When reaching out, be clear about your expectations and budget.