How do I find an illustrator for my novel series?
by Kendria Perry
(Miami, FL)
Question: Hi, my name is Summer and I'm currently working a novel series of 6 volumes. My books will be aimed at teenagers, so I want an illustrator to draw cover and inside illustrations for all 6 books. Do you know where I can find an illustrator for my books? Thanks in advance!
Answer: I'm guessing you're looking at self-publishing? I ask because a traditional publisher would likely prefer to match you with a book illustrator or designer of their choosing. So if that's the route you are taking, don't worry about finding an illustrator on your own.
If you want to self-publish, you can certainly find many freelance book illustrators advertised at places like guru.com, or through craigslist. Better bets might be www.childrensillustrators.com or the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI). (I know, yours is a book for teenagers, but not all illustrators are that specialized. Look at the posted samples of work for a style you like.)
The challenge with these routes is that you would be dealing with someone you don't really know that well. Having a good relationship with a designer you have confidence in and with whom you see eye to eye is very important to avoid misunderstandings and to make sure you get something you're happy with.
If it were me, I would want to meet some illustrators face to face to see who I would like to work with. One possibility might be to go to a comic book convention. Many artists have display booths at these conventions and you can approach those whose work interests you. Or you could try an SCBWI convention or even a local art college.
Whoever you choose, make sure you have a properly drawn up contract that establishes things like who owns copyright over the illustrations and the finished book, how much you will pay, how much time they need (it could be longer than you think), whether you can ask for changes, etc. On heavily illustrated books, copyright is often jointly owned by author and illustrator who are entitled to equal royalties. Both names go on the cover. Or you may purchase illustrations and the right to reproduce them for a flat fee plus crediting the illustrator.
One site with a lot of information on the book design process (helpful background for working with an illustrator) is www.thebookdesigner.com.
Comments for How do I find an illustrator for my novel series?
|
||
|
||
|
||
|
||
|
||
|
||
|
||
|
||
|
||
|
||
|
||
| site search by freefind |
Recent Postings
-
I can't connect with my protagonist
Feb 22, 20 10:35 PM
Hello, I've got a great story and plot and I know the type of protagonist I need to write about but I'm struggling to build that deep emotional connect
-
Children's or ???
Jan 26, 20 02:36 PM
Question: Does it fall into the children's category when it is a book they will gift to Mom when done? Answer: A children's book is one that is written
"I've read more than fifty books on writing, writing novels, etc., but your website has the most useful and practical guidance. Now that I understand how a novel is structured, I will rewrite mine, confident that it will be a more interesting novel." - Lloyd Edwards
"Thanks to your "Create a Plot Outline in 8 Easy Steps," I was able to take a story that I simply just fooled around with and went willy nilly all over, into a clearly defined, intriguing battle where two characters fight to keep their relationship intact, and try to find a balance in control of themselves and their lives. Thanks to you, I'm not ashamed of the poor organization of my writing." - Nommanic Ragus
"I am so glad I found your site. It has helped me in so many ways, and has given me more confidence about myself and my work. Thank you for making this valuable resource, for me and my fellow writers. Perhaps you'll hear about me someday...I'll owe it to you." - Ruth, Milton, U.S.A.
"I never knew what to do with all the characters in my head, but since discovering Dramatica I am writing again in my spare time. Thank you for making this available. Yes, it is a bit complex, and it does take time, but I love it because it works." - Colin Shoeman
"I came across your website by chance. It is a plethora of
knowledge, written in a simplistic way to help aspiring writers. I
truly appreciate all of the information you have provided to help me
successfully (relative term) write my novel. Thank you very much!" - Leo T. Rollins
"I
can honestly say that this is the first website that is really helpful.
You manage to answer complex questions in relatively short articles and
with really intelligent answers. Thank you for taking the time to write
these articles and sharing them so generously." - Chrystelle Nash
"...had no idea that a simple click would give me such a wealth of valuable information. The site not only offered extremely clear and helpful instructions but was a very enjoyable read as well. The education from your wonderful site has made me a better writer and your words have inspired me to get back to work on my novel. I wish to give you a heartfelt thanks for How to Write a Book Now, sir." -- Mike Chiero
