How Do I Hire an Illustrator?

Are you hiring an illustrator for the first time and unsure of how to do so? Here are a few things to keep in mind.

The more information you can provide up front, the easier it will be to determine if you and the illustrator are the right fit!

1. When you reach out about your project, make sure you provide plenty of information about what you’re looking for and why you have approached this illustrator. Did you see something else they made and think it’s the perfect style for your project? That’s very helpful to share.

2. What do you need illustrated (or explained visually)? What is the original concept or, if relevant, text that you are breaking down? Do you have a sense for what type of final product you want?

3. Do you have a sense for how many illustrations you will need and what their dimensions will be?

4. Where will you be using these illustrations (online/print/both and in what commercial context)? Custom illustration, like anything custom, comes at a cost but it will be created for your exact needs in the illustrator’s style. (Way better than clip art!) The costs can vary, however, depending on how the illustrations will be used commercially. Here is a resource from the Association of Illustrators that explains how this works in the industry.

5. What is your budget and timeline? This, in addition to the scope and style requested will help the illustrator determine quickly whether they can take the project on. Rush projects tend to require a higher budget, so it’s good to plan ahead!

   If you’re interested in illustrated explanations of complex concepts, reach out to Maddy Buck with your project information here.