How to Become an Editorial Illustrator
You can become an editorial illustrator and earn a living with just a few tips and tricks. Whether you want to be an illustrator for the internet or a print magazine, these tips will help you achieve your goal.
Pick one illustration style or industry
In order to become an editorial illustrator, you need to decide what illustration style or industry to focus on. However, it can take a while to decide. To make your decision easier, we’ve rounded up some tips to help you along.
The best way to choose an illustration style is to find out what you’re truly interested in. This will help you pick the illustration that best suits your skill set.
If you’re interested in graphic design, Adobe Illustrator is probably the most popular tool. It’s used for creating all kinds of visuals.
You may also want to consider studying a degree in illustration or art. There are a variety of online resources for illustrators. Some websites will even tell you what to learn, so you can start focusing on a particular niche.
Lastly, you’ll need to make a strong portfolio. Make sure to include plenty of your best work. This can be accomplished by making use of online portfolio sites and social networking networks.
As you can see, becoming an editorial illustrator requires a lot of hard work. However, it’s a rewarding career. Whether you’re a freelance artist or you work for a publishing company, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to show off your talents.
Before you start applying for jobs, you’ll need to make sure you’re armed with a solid portfolio. Creating a portfolio can be a daunting task, but you can build confidence and gain some experience by doing it.
Once you’ve picked an illustration style or industry to focus on, you’ll need to learn more about it. A good way to do this is to attend industry events. Not only will you learn more about what you can expect, but you’ll also get to meet other artists and illustrators.
Study a particular university major
For students who wish to study a particular university major to become an editorial illustrator, there are many different options to choose from. A few of these options include graphic design, game art, advertising, and entertainment design. There are also some more specific options, such as medical illustration and veterinary illustration.
Most professional illustrators start their career in college. These students take foundation courses to learn traditional methods of drawing and painting, as well as computer programs. They also learn how to critique their work and develop their artistic skills. Later courses focus on professional application.
After completing a two-year program, some students pursue a degree in a masters program. These programs are designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the arts. The program offers opportunities to develop career skills, meet industry leaders, and build a professional network.
Many employers prefer candidates who have a strong portfolio. Students develop their skills through workshops and internships. This will help to build a portfolio that can be used in interviews. Some of the most popular online sites for showcasing illustration work include Dribbble, Behance, and ArtStation.
Illustrators often need to be comfortable with technology. Adobe Illustrator is the most common software used for graphic design. However, it may not be right for everyone. You might want to look into other programs such as Photoshop, SketchUp, or 3D design software.
You will also need to demonstrate dependability. Especially if you are working as part of a team, you need to know how to manage deadlines. In addition, you might need to have knowledge of mechanical systems and human anatomy.
While a college degree will provide you with the skills you need to become an illustrator, you may find that you need additional training. You can learn about specific software, attend industry events, and join professional organizations.
Build a portfolio
It’s a good idea to build a portfolio to showcase your talents and impress prospective clients. However, the process isn’t as difficult as you might think. The right resources are available to help you out.
To start with, you need to decide what you want to do. You may be a graphic designer, or you may specialize in another area. But you need to consider what your clients are looking for. For example, if you are a real estate agent, you’ll need a portfolio that features work from the real estate industry.
Another thing to consider is what your portfolio stands for. If you do a lot of web design, you’ll want a website that makes it easy for potential clients to contact you. You might want to include a contact form or links to your social media accounts.
A portfolio can be constructed using free websites and services, such as Sqaurespace and Adobe Portfolio. These sites will also allow you to download your images in PDF format.
One thing to keep in mind is that your portfolio should contain only the best of the best. In other words, don’t include a piece of art that you’re not proud of.
To find the best possible illustration, it helps to look at the artwork from the client’s perspective. This is the best way to learn if your work is up to par. As a side note, if you’re an editorial illustrator, you’ll want to think about what types of illustrations you’d like to create.
The best way to get the most from a portfolio is to curate projects that are relevant to your niche. By looking at the works of others, you’ll get an idea of what types of designs are popular and what style is most likely to be hired.
Find your first client
Getting your first client as an editorial illustrator can be a tricky business. However, there are several tips that you can follow to make it easier. The most important thing to remember is that you need to demonstrate your skills. If you can create a great portfolio, then you will find it easier to land your first commission.
When you are looking for work, don’t forget to build a professional website. Having a professional looking website will help your potential clients see your skill level. You can also make use of social media sites to showcase your work. It is also a good idea to set up an Instagram account.
Another good way to get started is to research publications that often use illustrations. This will allow you to get a better sense of what style works best. For example, some magazines are drawn to cartoony style illustrations, while others favor still photography.
One good tip for getting your first client as an editorial illustrator is to create a mailing list. You can send out a monthly newsletter with lovely visuals of your recent commissions.
Some people prefer to talk to an illustrator in person, so be sure to meet with them. A face-to-face meeting can be the best way to form a relationship. As well as being a good way to connect with a prospective client, a face-to-face meeting can also provide an opportunity to share ideas.
Another good way to approach your first client as an editorial illustrator is to reach out to art directors directly. These are often the people who are responsible for hiring artists. Rather than sending a link to your website, it may be more effective to send an actual physical piece of art. Besides being more tangible, it will keep your artwork in front of clients who are not able to see it online.
Get your work online
Getting work online as an editorial illustrator can be challenging. However, there are many resources available to help you. Here are a few tips that can get you started.
First, you should focus on building a strong portfolio. This means choosing a niche or area of interest to focus on. Then, create a series of works that show your skills and demonstrate how well you can translate text into visuals.
Secondly, you should keep an eye out for industry conferences and events. These are excellent opportunities to network with potential clients. You can also contact art directors directly.
Next, you’ll want to build your online portfolio. Online portfolios are the most common way to display your illustration work. Use a website that is easy to navigate. It should include a narrative and diverse selection of illustrations.
If you’re unsure of how to do this, you can contact other freelance illustrators and ask for advice. Also, check out websites like Behance, Dribbble, and ArtStation. Many of these sites offer paid opportunities to illustrators.
Finally, you’ll need to develop your own style. There are many styles to choose from, including comic, fashion, and editorial illustration. Decide what style you want to specialize in and use that to guide your networking.
Editorial illustrations are used to complement body text in articles and publications. They are meant to draw the reader’s attention to the article. In addition, they can be used to emphasize certain points or concepts in writing.
Illustrators may also be hired to design book covers or supplemental artwork. Find out what types of projects are most in demand, and tailor your portfolio to meet the needs of the client.