Finding the Right Illustrator for My Children’s Book: The Search Begins
Finding the Right Illustrator for My Children’s Book: The Search Begins
I’m at that point in the process where the story outline feels solid, the characters are developed, and now I’m stepping into the next exciting but anxiety filled phase of finding an illustrator.
I’d love to illustrate my own book, but let’s be honest, I struggle to draw a stick figure. So instead, I’ve started researching illustrators whose work can bring Yabbit the Rabbit to life.
Over the last few weeks, I’ve been exploring portfolios on Fiverr, Reedsy, and Illustrators for Hire. There are some talented artists out there, but so far, nothing has quite clicked. I’m learning that finding the right illustrator isn’t just about artistic skill, it’s about style, chemistry, and shared vision.
The Unexpected Lead
This morning, while sitting in my favorite café, I mentioned to the barista that I was creating a children’s picture book. Her eyes lit up, and she smiled.
“I have someone that will be perfect for you,” she said.
I came home from that conversation feeling unexpectedly motivated and hopeful. My father has always told me, “It’s not always what you know, but who you know.” And today, that advice feels more relevant than ever.
Whether the barista’s friend becomes my illustrator or not, I’m realizing that creative opportunities often come through everyday conversations.
Watch the YouTube Video: My Search for an Illustrator
🎥 I’ve also documented this part of my journey in a short YouTube video, where I talk about the process, what I’ve learned from browsing illustrator portfolios, and how I’m narrowing down the search.
What to Look for When Hiring a Children’s Book Illustrator
Through this process, I’ve learned a few key lessons worth sharing with other first-time authors who might feel overwhelmed by where to start:
Explore multiple platforms. Fiverr, Reedsy, Behance, and Instagram are great starting points for comparing styles and pricing.
Check reviews and communication. A great illustrator isn’t just talented, they’re professional, reliable, and communicative.
Ask for sample sketches. Seeing how an artist interprets your character tells you more than any portfolio ever could.
Discuss ownership and licensing early. Make sure contracts clarify rights to use the artwork for print, e-books, and merchandise.
Trust your instincts. You’re building a creative relationship, not just buying an image.
If you’re writing your first book and feel unsure how to find the right illustrator, know that everyone starts somewhere. It’s a process filled with trial, error, and discovery, but that’s part of the joy.
How This Ties Back to Yabbit the Rabbit
Yabbit the Rabbit has always been about courage, the courage to take one small hop forward, even when you don’t know what’s next. Searching for an illustrator is its own form of bravery. You’re handing your vision to someone else and trusting they’ll treat it with care.
This stage reminds me that creativity thrives on connection, sometimes it’s through a digital portfolio, and sometimes it’s through a barista’s smile and a serendipitous conversation.
Final Thoughts
If you’re at this stage in your writing journey, take heart. The perfect illustrator is out there, and you’ll find them through persistence, openness, and maybe even a bit of luck.
When you do, your story will start to feel real in a new way, like seeing your imagination finally take shape.
Follow along here and on YouTube as I continue documenting this part of the journey.
