My Illustration Process
Every children’s book has its own story, characters, and special world. My goal is to bring that world to life through expressive characters, engaging scenes, and detailed, hand-drawn digital illustrations that capture the heart of your story.
I work closely with authors throughout the illustration process, making sure each scene reflects their vision while creating a consistent and engaging visual experience for young readers.
1. Getting to Know Your Story
Every project begins with your story. I’ll read your story and, if needed, provide recommendations on the number of illustrations for your book. You’re also welcome to share any specific ideas, preferences, or art direction you have in mind for the illustrations.
This helps me understand your vision and develop an illustration style and direction that suit your story.
2. Sketches and Composition
Using Photoshop and a drawing tablet I create sketches for each illustration, establishing the composition, character placement, perspective, scenery, and important story details.
You’ll have the opportunity to review the sketches and request changes before I begin the final artwork. We can refine the scenes together until you’re happy with the direction.
I don’t move on to the final illustrations until you approve the sketches. This allows us to establish the composition and details early, before investing time in the finished artwork.
3. Final Artwork and Coloring
Once the sketches are approved, I begin creating the final illustrations. I build each scene with color, texture, lighting, and detail, bringing the characters and their world to life.
My illustrations are digitally created but hand-drawn, with careful attention to the atmosphere, expressions, and visual details that make each scene special.
At this stage, I focus on preserving the approved compositions and bringing the artwork to its finished form.
4. Book Layout and Print-Ready Files
When the illustrations are complete, I prepare the final files according to the agreed project requirements.
Depending on your needs, this can include arranging the illustrations and text, preparing print-ready PDFs, and setting up files for self-publishing platforms such as Amazon KDP and IngramSpark.
5. Final Delivery
Once everything is complete, I deliver the agreed final artwork and book files. Depending on your project, deliverables can include high-resolution illustrations, print-ready PDFs, layered Photoshop files, and character reference sheets.
My aim is to make the process clear and collaborative, from the first sketches to the final files, so you can feel confident about how your book is taking shape.
Let’s Bring Your Story to Life
Have a children’s book in mind? I’d love to hear about it!
Every project is different, so pricing depends on the number and type of illustrations, the complexity of the artwork, and the services you need.
For a personalized quote, please email me at [email protected] with a brief description of your story.
I’ll be happy to learn more about your project and discuss how we can bring your story to life.