Your lifelong dream of writing a children’s book has come to fruition. You have penned an amazing tale that is sure to capture the imagination of those future little readers. Now it’s time to add the visual images to help bring the book to life with some vibrant children’s book illustrations—except you are not an artist. What to do?
Illustrating a children’s book may come naturally to the artistically gifted among us, but for everyone else, it presents a quandary. Do you take a stab at it yourself and hope the child reader won’t be a harsh critic, or do you figure out how to find a children’s book illustrator?
Children’s book illustrators are heaven sent when authors are faced with the challenge of integrating just the right visual artistry for your story. These pros know how to illustrate a children’s book using a style—whimsical, watercolor, black and white, and many more—that compliments your tale and enhances the reader experience. When it comes to adding the finishing artistic touches to your self-published children’s book, consider accessing the skills of a children’s book illustrator.
Not an Artistic Genius? You’ve Got Other Options for Illustrating a Children’s Book
If just the thought of a 96-count Crayon box provokes an anxiety attack, do not fret. There are ample options for the non-artist to solve the dilemma of illustrating a children’s book sans artistic talent. Here are a few to consider:
Hire a professional publishing company
For the smoothest journey toward completing the artwork for your self-published children’s book, consider the one-stop professional publishing company. In addition to providing an art department to create the perfect imagery for your book, these houses also offer myriad publishing services, such as editing, proofreading, formatting, and, of course, publishing.
Find a freelancer
For the more adventurous author, you may want to explore the pool of talent provided on a freelance website, such as Toptal or Upwork. These platforms allow you to post a listing seeking a children’s book illustrator. Then you simply review the various portfolios and rates sent over by freelancers vying for the gig.
Do it yourself anyway
For the brave among you, go ahead and put your modest skills to the test. Who knows? Maybe there is a budding artist inside waiting for the opportunity to express themself. Look for some online templates or view some YouTube tutorials for guidance and give it a whirl.
Enlist an artistic family member or friend
If you are fortunate enough to have a talented family member or friend, why not pitch the project to them. They will be able to work closely with you on the project, and possibly even cut you a sweet deal. But just beware, as hurt feelings may result if you are not satisfied with the final results.
Try a software program
Some authors who are technically inclined may already know their way around the Photoshop landscape. If you are comfortable manipulating these programs, such as Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop, go ahead and unleash your creative juices in this digital artist’s workshop.
Curious What Working With a Children’s Book Illustrator is Like?
If children’s book illustration is just not in your wheelhouse, why not consider handing the task over to a professional? Instead of trying to figure out how to find a children’s book illustrator, explore the top-notch art department at Gatekeeper Press instead. Our art gurus will work closely with you to select the perfect illustration style to enchant that young reader. Reach out to us today!
