As most writers know, the job of an illustrator is incredibly important when it comes to children’s books. Still, many writers don’t truly know exactly what an illustrator does or why it’s so crucial. In this blog, we’ll discover what an illustrator does and why it matters for every children’s author.
What is the job of an illustrator?
In addition to creating the beautiful photos that will accompany your story, the job of an illustrator includes:
Providing a storyboard for planning and layout purposes
Illustrating your front and back cover
Sending their art to your book designer in the proper format
Bringing your vision to life while incorporating their own creativity
It’s important to remember that a professional illustrator knows how to turn your words into stunning drawings or paintings. They also have a sense of creativity and vision that many writers don’t have when it comes to visual art. After all, we can’t all be talented at EVERYTHING.
This is why I often encourage writers to avoid micromanaging illustrators. You can have an idea of what you want your book to look like, but leave most decision making to your illustrator. It’s the job of an illustrator to use their creativity. It’s your job to let them use it.
When HCI Books took on the re-release of I CAN Believe in Myself, I had the privilege of choosing my illustrator. Having worked with Eva Morales before, I knew she was the perfect artist for the job. She did not disappoint.
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Miriam Laundry & Jack Canfield
Published by HCI Books
If you want to learn more about what kinds of illustrations your illustrator might use, read THIS blog.
Why do illustrators matter?
One of the most incredible things about picture books is that they contribute to their readers’ development. Children’s understanding of the world grows as they observe not only the world around them, but also the world painted within the books they read, both in writing and drawing. This is why the job of an illustrator is so important.
Illustrations tell about 50% of the story. While an author’s words tell the readers what happens and what is said, the illustrations show the reader what all those things look like. Illustrators give expressions, setting, and detail to the words on the page through their art.
Illustrations make a book easier to read, they maintain narrative flow, and contribute to the visual appeal.
Organize your manuscript in a 32 Page Picture Book Template.
When a writer creates a story, they need to partner with an artist to see their book come to life and then get their story published. Without illustrations, picture books simply wouldn’t be picture books, making the job of an illustrator exceptionally valuable.
Not sure where to find an illustrator? Read THIS blog.