Do you have a natural talent for drawing? Are you good at using pencil or colors? So maybe you could illustrate a book. Here are some tips to point you on the right path.
Steps
Step 1. Get the job
You may have a friend who works in the field of publishing or book editing - if possible, it would be a good idea to contact him. If not, as many other aspiring illustrators do, you could approach a publishing house by phone or by mail, asking for a meeting or appointment to show your sketches and drawings. If the first publisher you turn to doesn't show interest, don't be disappointed. Try again. It is possible that somewhere out there, someone is looking for just what you can do.
Step 2. Read the drafts
When you have finally found someone who needs your work, you will be offered some alternatives between different novels or books. Of course you will have to read a draft or, in case the story is a reprint, the previously published edition. You may be lucky enough to have the opportunity to illustrate a cover or dust jacket. You need to make sure you understand the plot and the characters thoroughly - remember that their emotions are expressed through your drawings.
Step 3. Meet the author
After you've finally decided which novel or book to focus on, meet with the author or a representative and discuss with him which parts of the story you should illustrate. You could make decisions on a variety of topics, such as the cover and chapter headings, or arrange for illustrations to be scattered throughout the book. You will also talk about what means you will use to make them and what are the highlights of the book.
Step 4. Finish your work
There will be many other people who will help you get your job done. Very soon you will find it on the shelves of libraries and you will be ready to take on another assignment for this publisher.
Advice
- Go through the draft and place a post-it wherever you find a very detailed description or scene you'd like to work on. You could report them to your team members, perhaps giving them a chance to work on them.
- Listen very carefully to what the author and his staff want in each image; taking notes can be of great help. You may need to redo a finished illustration if it is not deemed suitable.
- Don't get too obsessed with your work, or you may find yourself facing "artist block".
Warnings
- Don't get fired.
- Try to get along as much as possible with the author: he can always find another illustrator, while you don't always have the opportunity to take another job opportunity like this.
