Creating illustrations for children's books is a structured journey that requires clear communication and strategic planning. Having illustrated over 20 children's books, I've developed a process that minimizes unnecessary revisions and ensures the author's vision is captured at every stage.

1. Gathering Information
The foundation of any successful illustration project begins with collecting all necessary details:

• The complete story text
• Visual references and inspiration
• Character descriptions
• Photos if characters are based on real people

While my style is relatively simple and cannot create photorealistic portraits, I can incorporate distinctive features like skin tone, unique haircuts, and favorite clothing items that make characters recognizable and relatable.

2. Storyboard Development
Before investing time in detailed sketches, I create a comprehensive storyboard with thumbnails for each spread. This visual roadmap shows:

• How the narrative flows across pages
• Which scenes will be illustrated
• What objects and elements will appear on each spread

This early visualization gives authors the opportunity to request different scenes or suggest alternative approaches before we progress to more detailed work. The storyboard stage is ideal for making fundamental changes to the storytelling approach.

3. Character Design
Once the storyboard receives approval, character development begins. My approach varies depending on the project:

• For stories with only one or two main characters, I sketch multiple options
• For stories based on real people or featuring numerous characters, I create a detailed sketch of one internal illustration showing all characters together

This stage includes unlimited revisions until we find the perfect character designs that bring the story to life.

4 Detailed Sketches
After storyboard and character approvals, I create comprehensive sketches for every page in the book. This crucial step includes unlimited revisions to ensure all elements align perfectly with the author's vision before adding color.

5 Color Development
When sketches are approved, I create the first fully colored illustration as a proof of concept. This establishes:

• Character appearances in full color
• Setting and environmental details
• The overall color palette for the book

Rather than providing multiple color options, I develop what I believe works best for the story based on my professional experience. Authors can request specific color adjustments if needed.

6 Internal Illustrations:
Once the color approach is approved, I complete all remaining illustrations in the same consistent style. These can be delivered all at once or in batches of 3-4 spreads.
While I offer unlimited revisions at this stage, they should be minor adjustments rather than complete redesigns. Major changes that deviate from approved sketches would be considered new illustrations and priced accordingly.

7 Book Cover
I usually create the cover after finishing the internal illustrations so I can better reflect the story, characters, and overall feel of the book.
However, if you need a cover early for marketing purposes, I can work on it after 2–3 color illustrations are ready.
You’ll receive 3–4 cover sketch ideas, and we’ll move forward with the one you love most.

8 Book Layout & Formatting
The final stage involves integrating illustrations with text and preparing files for publication platforms like Amazon KDP and print services. I select appropriate fonts that complement the illustrations, though authors can request alternatives or provide their preferred fonts.

9 Final Delivery & LicenseYou’ll receive:
– A print-ready PDF with text and illustrations
– High-resolution JPGs of all illustrations without text
Please note: I do not provide source files (e.g., PSD, AI, or InDesign).

You’ll have full commercial rights to use and sell the illustrations in your book. I retain the right to showcase the work in my portfolio or on social media for non-commercial purposes. I also request that my name appear on the book cover as the illustrator.

By following this structured process, I aim to create a harmonious collaboration that brings your stories to life in a visually captivating and enchanting manner. Your satisfaction and the connection with your readers are my ultimate goals.

Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or specific preferences. Together, we can create a masterpiece that will delight and inspire young minds.