Question 1

Commissioning an Illustrator

Accepted Answer

Sharing the details listed below with the illustrator will really help provide an overview of the project, identify the best approach to match your needs as well as give more context for an accurate quotation.
 
1. Project overview (theme, audience, story synopsis etc.)
2. Project scope (quantity & size of illustrations)
3. Usage (license required) *see explanation for license
4. Level of artwork complexity required 
5. Timeline
*How do commissions work?​ (resource from the Association of Illustrators)
 
Complexity of illustrations loosely falls into these categories:
 
1. Spot Illustrations: simple, usually no background
2. Vingette: simple, loosely rendered background
3. Scene: full background, occupies most of the page/product
4. Spread: full background, occupies entire double page/product
5. Large Format: stage backdrops, wallpaper, event displays
 
Providing any visual references will also greatly help in understanding the the type of artwork required.

Question 2

Determining a suitable license

Accepted Answer

Like many other creative industries, the illustration industry works on a licensing structure.

A license grants client usage rights specifying: nature of use, region of distribution, distributor and duration. 
*What is an illustration license?​ (resource from the Association of Illustrators)

Question 3

Copyright

Accepted Answer

Client's needs are all covered through specified usage rights granted by a license, while the artist is able to maintain the artistic integrity of the illustration by keeping the copyright in any work they create.

Question 4

Publishing and Retail

Accepted Answer

Colourful characters and richly detailed illustrations can engage both children and parents alike!
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Usually negotiated on an "Advance + Royalties" model with a license for use and additional usages (ex: ebook, toys, stationery etc.) covered through "Subsidiary Rights".

Some factors that will influence the illustrator's rates:
Is the client self publishing, pitching to publishers or already has an existing contract with commercial publisher?
The scale of distribution. Where will the product be sold and what is the projected quantity? Who will distribute?
Does the client require additional graphic design services? (in-design book layout, print formatting etc.)

*How do I hire an illustrator for my self-published book?(resource from the Society of Children’s Books Writers and Illustrators)

Upon receiving the story manuscript, the illustrator will work on a storyboard consisting of thumbnail sketches and rough indication of text placement. This is to establish the visual structure and pacing of the story. Depending on the client's requirements, there may also be an additional character development stage.

Question 5

Branding and Events

Accepted Answer

Convey a compelling brand story with illustrations crafting a strong visual narrative for events and promotions!
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Projects are usually negotiated as a one-time flat fee with a license for use.

Characters

Collaboration in Mind? Let's get started!

please email inquiries to nat@natalieillustration.com

Overview

Commissioning an Illustrator

Determining a suitable license

Copyright

Publishing and Retail

Branding and Events

More Information

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