How to be a children's book illustrator step by step

Every job starts from learning the basics, doing initial research will give you an insight into the industry. An illustrator can work freelance basis, or be employed by a publishing house or magazine.

Start off by getting your hand on many different children's books, in this way you are able to learn how children's book is organised, how text interplay with image and see how each illustrator use different methods and techniques to approach the message.

To expand on your knowledge, there are plenty of online resources such as websites, blogs, videos and courses, to help you make your first step in the industry.

As well to research it's also important to attend local events such as book fairs, and society or join illustrator groups, to get a professional insight into the field of practice as well as develop the professional skills needed for the role.

Although it has been said that, you do not need to have a specific degree for a children’s book illustrator, most companies would still prefer you to have a bachelor’s degree and related qualifications will always be a distinctive advantage. Credential skills and your style of work can be built from attending creative workshops, art classes, drawing courses and tutorials.

Being a children’s book illustrator can be competitive. Agencies and companies will have many choices available for them to choose from, therefore it’s not a good idea to sit idly and wait for them to discover your potential, instead you should showcase your work to reach a larger audience.

Every employer in the creative fields is going to expect a portfolio during the interview process. A portfolio is essentially a collection of your best works, carefully curated to show the employers your versatility and whether your illustration styles are a fit for the style they are looking for.

Besides physical portfolio, you should also aim at online platforms to present your work, through blogs, websites or social media to reach a wider audience, It’s important to do so as you are effectively making connections with the outside world that increases the chance of your work noticed by potential clients.

As with any job, avoid sending out bulk applications, instead spend some time looking at what the employer is looking for. Research different publishing houses to make sure that your style is compatible with theirs, to increase the chances of success.

Finding a job as a new illustrator can be really tough, you wouldn’t have enough links and connections to rely upon, thankfully there are different job sites out there on the internet, such as indeed, SimplyHired, ZipRecruiter and Reedsy. If you are looking for temporary contract, such as freelancing, you could look at websites like Upwork and Fiverr that feature small projects commissioned by more diverse clients.

For illustrators that are already employed. Keeping up your profile and reputation is important as building a client list, as it’s always possible to be quickly replaced by new illustrators. It requires a bit of marketing strategy and staying ahead of the curve helps you maintain your space.