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Do you have a children’s book that you want to get published, but don’t know how to find an perfect illustrator?

I engaged my children’s book illustrator a few weeks ago. We are still working on my book and I can’t wait to see the finished product. In the meantime, I thought it would be helpful to share some helpful tips on how I found my children’s book illustrator.

1. Determine the style of illustration you like

Before you can start looking for an illustrator, you need to determine the style of illustration that you want. This will help narrow down your search and make it easier for you to find someone who matches your vision. Do you want a realistic style or something more whimsical?

If you’re not sure what you want, it might be helpful to look at children’s books that are already published to get some ideas. Take a look at the illustrations and see if there is a particular style or artist that you like.

2. Do your research – use multiple platforms

Once you have a general idea of the style you’re looking for, it’s time to start doing your research.

It’s important to look at as many different portfolios as possible so that you can get a good sense of what each illustrator is capable of. Here’s the platforms I went on to search for illustrators:

• • Instagram

Many talented illustrators use Instagram to showcase their best work. I searched under account for “Children Book Illustrator” and from there I started following a couple of accounts.

• • Facebook Groups

I joined the FB groups “Children’s Book Illustrators” and “Children’s Book Authors, Illustrators & Self Publishing” where illustrators will share their portfolios in response to FB posts made by authors looking for illustrators.

• • SCBWI (Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators

The SCBWI is a professional organisation for “individuals who write, illustrate, and translate for children and young adults”. They have US chapters in most states and international chapters in more than 10 countries. On their member list, you can find a list of hundreds of verified illustrators and their portfolios.

• • Fiverr

Fiverr is a platform with mixed reviews. Do select your illustrator after going through their reviews very carefully. I haven’t engaged a children’s book illustrator through Fiverr but have come across quite a few “horror” stories when using the platform.

3. Deciding on your budget

Before you start looking for an illustrator, it’s important to decide on your budget.

This will help you narrow down your search and make it easier to find someone who fits within your price range. Keep in mind that the cost of illustration can vary depending on the illustrator’s experience and the complexity of the project.

For example, an illustration with a full background and many characters will differ in cost from a spot illustration (i.e. an illustration with no background) with 1 or 2 characters.

Illustration costs I have come across range from USD20 to USD200 per page.

Think about the type of illustrations your children’s book would require (here’s a helpful article). It would be good to have that in mind before you approach your illustrator and discuss pricing.

It’s also a good idea to set a budget for the entire project, including the cost of printing and publishing. This will help you stay on track financially and avoid any surprises down the road.

“Illustrations can be a big window: a looking glass into the author’s imagination.”— Tony DiTerlizziTweet

4. Get quotes from different illustrators

Once you’ve found a few illustrators that you like, it’s time to get quotes from them.

This will give you a better idea of what their services cost and how much they charge per project. Be sure to ask the illustrator for a detailed quote so that you know exactly what you’re getting. For example, how many revisions are included and when the project can be delivered.

This will help avoid any surprises down the road.

In the end, I found my children’s book perfect illustrator on Instagram

After following her account for a few weeks, I really loved her style and the characters she created. She also had a website with her portfolio and I liked that I could contact her via WhatsApp.

Remember, once you’ve chosen an illustrator, be sure to keep in mind that communication is key. Make sure to keep in touch with them throughout the entire project and let them know if you have any changes or updates.

I will share next on how to work with your children’s book illustrator ?!

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