What style do you have in mind?
This is probably the most common question illustrators ask authors when an author reaches out to find an illustrator. Some authors know exactly what they want, sometimes inspired by a book from their childhood or by illustrations they have come across online. However, most new authors find it difficult to answer this question.
Here are some style ideas you can consider for your book:
- Cartoon style
The cartoon style features simple lines, exaggerated expressions, and bright colors. These often humorous illustrations are commonly used in books for younger children. - Classic illustration
These illustrations are detailed and often realistic, with soft colours and a nostalgic look. - Whimsical illustrations
These illustrations come in many forms. They are often imaginative, with soft colour transitions and a playful effect through light and dark. - Line drawing
Line drawings are simple illustrations, often in black and white. This type of illustration is often used as spot illustration. - Sketchy style
The difference between a line drawing and a sketched style is that a line drawing consists only of lines, while a sketch style shows more gray variations and hatching. - 3D illustrations
A 3D illustration uses depth, volume and realistic lighting to try to make an image appear three-dimensional.
With so many different styles, which one will you choose?
I recommend visiting a library or bookstore to browse through children’s books and discover which illustrations fit your story and which style appeals to you. Do you find yourself consistently drawn to the work of a particular illustrator?
Once you have chosen a style, you can find many illustrators online who work in that style. Many illustrators share their work on social media platforms such as Instagram, Cara, Threads, and Facebook. But be careful! Not everyone is honest. Always double-check whether a portfolio actually contains the artist’s own work and whether they can illustrate a full story, rather than just creating standalone illustrations.
I cannot stress this enough—always request a meeting, whether it is face-to-face or via Zoom.
