Freelance illustration is a vibrant career path to pursue, but establishing a thriving career as an illustrator requires much more than just raw artistic talent. It demands a strategic approach to building a brand, marketing oneself effectively, managing finances, and nurturing client relationships.
This is our ultimate guide to getting started as a freelance illustrator, packed with valuable tips and insights to help you flourish in this exciting field.
Build a strong portfolio
Your portfolio is your calling card – it's the first impression your potential clients will have of your work. Curate a selection of your best pieces that showcase your versatility, style, and skillset with a variety of work, such as character designs, editorial illustrations, concept art, and more.
As an illustrator, the internet is your best friend when it comes to expanding your reach. Most of your customers are likely to discover your work online, so it’s vital to host your portfolio on platforms like Behance, Dribbble, and ArtStation.
It’s also worth building a personal website that lists your contact details, prices, and the option of ordering prints or original pieces. These platforms not only serve as a gallery for your work, but also allow you to connect with fellow creatives and potential clients.
Document your process
There are two massive benefits to documenting your creative process as an illustrator. Firstly, in doing so, you can maintain rigorous self-reflection and nurture your creative growth. Secondly, you can use it as a way of increasing engagement with your potential customers.
Always be sure to evaluate your current projects and question yourself about them. What new illustration styles are you experimenting with? What challenges are you encountering? Has a particular concept, idea, or line of enquiry caught your attention? From the beginnings of a concept to a finished piece, what steps have you been taking in your latest work? What are you looking to change or try out?
By documenting all of this and publishing it onto your platform of choice, you’re taking your audience on your creative journey. They’ll share feedback on what they like at each step, and potentially even share ideas on the direction you could take your work in. If you’re looking to build a corporate client base, it’s worth creating case studies for some projects to provide insight into your creative process.
Define your brand
Your brand is more than just a logo — it's the essence of your artistic identity. Define what sets you apart from other illustrators. Are you known for whimsical children's illustrations, intricate digital paintings, or bold, abstract designs? Your brand should reflect your unique style, values, and the emotions you evoke through your work.
Create a consistent visual identity across all your marketing materials, including your website, business cards, social media profiles, and promotional materials. This cohesive branding helps establish a solid, memorable image in the minds of clients.
Self-promote and market yourself
As creative professionals everywhere expand their reach on a global level, self-promotion is key to gaining visibility and attracting customers. Leveraging the power of social media platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest is a great way to showcase your work to a global audience. Make sure you post regularly, engage with followers, and use relevant hashtags to reach a wider audience.
Depending on the types of illustration you specialise in, you may find that certain platforms are better than others. For example, if video game, graphic novel or comic book illustration is your chosen niche, it’s worth booking a spot as a vendor at conventions. If your illustration style is more traditional, consider setting up stalls at art fairs and markets, and investigate to see which ones are local. The footfall at these events will put your work on the map – remember to showcase what you sell on social platforms too!
Build your professional network
Networking is invaluable in the freelance world. Attend industry events, workshops, and conferences to meet fellow illustrators, art directors, and potential clients. Exchange business cards, connect on LinkedIn, and follow up via email.
Maintaining a database of contacts, including art directors, publishers, design agencies, and fellow freelancers ensures you know who’s interested and who to contact in the future. Regularly reach out with updates on your work, new projects, or collaborations for these potential clients, as these relationships can lead to fruitful opportunities down the line.
Join freelance platforms and communities
Online freelance platforms can be a great resource for finding work and connecting with clients. Websites like Upwork, Freelancer, Bark, and 99designs offer a wide range of projects across various industries where you can create a compelling profile, showcase your portfolio, and bid on relevant projects to kickstart your freelance career.
Joining online communities and forums dedicated to illustrators can also provide support, resources, and networking opportunities. These are great places to connect with peers, seek feedback, and stay updated on industry trends.
Research pricing and manage your finances
Setting your rates can be a daunting task for many freelancers. Always be sure to research industry standards before you settle on an initial price, and consider factors like your experience, skill level, project scope, and client budget. Don't undervalue your work – charge what you're worth to ensure a sustainable income.
Keep track of your finances diligently too. Accounting software or apps like QuickBooks or FreshBooks are great for managing invoices, expenses, and taxes. It’s also a good idea to set aside a portion of your income for taxes and savings to ensure financial stability.
Manage your time effectively
Whether you’re balancing freelance work with a full-time job or other freelancing full-time, effective time management skills are a must. Create a schedule that works for you, set realistic deadlines for projects, and prioritise tasks based on urgency and importance.
Project management tools like Trello, Asana, or Todoist are useful for organising workflow, tracking deadlines and staying productive. Remember to factor in time for self-promotion, networking, and personal development too.
Liaise closely with your clients
Clear communication is key to successful client relationships. Establish expectations early on, including project scope, timelines, deliverables, and revisions, alongside contracts or agreements to outline terms and protect both parties' interests.
As a freelancer, you need to be adaptable. Be open to feedback and revisions, but also know when to stand firm on your creative vision. Maintain a professional demeanour, meet deadlines consistently, and provide exceptional customer service to build a positive reputation.
Keep up with your personal development and current trends
The creative industry is constantly evolving, so staying ahead of the curve with trends and techniques is crucial. Attend workshops, enrol in online courses, or consider pursuing an online MA Illustration degree, like ours. A master's degree not only deepens your knowledge and skills, but also opens doors to new opportunities and networks.
AUB Online’s MA Illustration is designed for working professionals, so you can elevate your illustration skills without putting your current career on hold. We’ll guide you on compiling an industry-ready portfolio of work, building a solid international network of fellow creative professionals, and developing your business to succeed:
