Process

Stage 1: Exploratory Phone Call

When a client gets in touch, the first thing I do is schedule an exploratory discussion to talk about the project and see if I’m a good fit. My questions usually include:

  • Are you planning to self-publish or submit to a traditional publisher?
  • Do you have a timeline in mind for this project?
  • Do you have a budget in mind?
  • Is the manuscript finalized?

Stage 2: Sign a Work Agreement

Standard stuff. I draft up a work agreement that outlines what’s expected of each of us and we both sign: deadlines, payment schedules, what to do if one of us decides to drop the project before completion, etc.

Stage 3: Character Designs

Once I have all the character notes, I give my client a character design sheet. This is the best time to request changes and in this case study, my client opted for a wardrobe change.

Stage 4: Character Construction

Posing software can only take me so far. The character construction sheet is the blueprint that allows me to know exactly what the character looks like and draw them from any angle. This is the 2nd best time to request changes.

Stage 5: Storyboarding

My client and I plan out the spreads with rough sketches and notes to find the best way to tell the story. This is less important for middle grade and can be skipped.

Stage 6: Ink Proof

It’s finally time to draw! I give my client the line drawing for approval and make any needed changes before starting on the time-consuming task of coloring and shading.

Stage 7: Final Approval

One final ask for approval and this page is ready to go! Repeat Stages 3-7 for all illustrations and the cover.

Stage 8: Finalize & Marketing

One last check to make sure everything is in order, and then we send it off to the publisher. I like to stick around and help with marketing materials too. Do you need book launch event flyers? A book website?