A Guide to Choosing Your Children’s Book Illustrator

When it comes to creating a children’s book, there’s no denying that illustrations play an important role. The right artwork doesn’t just complement your story—it brings it to life, captures the imaginations of young readers, and can even help you win a book award.

But finding the perfect book illustrator can feel like a daunting task. How do you choose the right style and find someone who understands your vision?

Whether you’re an experienced author or just starting your journey, this guide is here to help you navigate the process. We’ll explore what to look for in a book illustrator, where to find top talent, and how to build a relationship that leads to an incredible book.

Understanding Your Book’s Needs

Before you start searching for a book illustrator, you’ll want to take a step back and really think about your book’s specific needs. This might sound obvious, but understanding your genre and target audience is key to finding a book illustrator who can bring your story to life in just the right way.

Define the Genre and Target Audience

First things first—what kind of book are you creating? Is it a picture book for toddlers, a middle-grade adventure, or perhaps a young adult novel with some visual elements? Each genre has its own set of expectations when it comes to illustrations.

For example, picture books typically rely heavily on bright, engaging images that capture the imagination and hold a child’s attention. In contrast, a middle-grade book might use illustrations more sparingly, focusing on enhancing the text rather than telling the story on their own.

The age group of your readers is just as important to consider. Young children are drawn to bold colors, simple shapes, and expressive characters—think about how classic books like Where the Wild Things Are use vivid imagery to draw kids in.

Older children, however, might prefer more detailed illustrations that add depth to the story without overshadowing the text. For instance, the whimsical yet intricate drawings in Harry Potter complement the story without taking center stage.

Determine the Role of Illustrations

Next, consider how much of your story is told through illustrations versus text. In a picture book, the images might do the heavy lifting, conveying emotions, setting, and even plot points with minimal words. On the other hand, in a chapter book, illustrations might be used to highlight key moments or add atmosphere, but the text remains the main vehicle for storytelling.

Think about books like The Very Hungry Caterpillar, where the illustrations are central to the narrative—the story is as much about what you see as what you read. Compare that with a book like The Tale of Despereaux, where the illustrations enhance the story by giving readers a visual sense of the characters and setting, but the text is still the driving force.

By understanding these elements, you can better communicate your needs to potential illustrators, helping them create artwork that not only complements your story but also resonates with your audience.

Qualities to Look for in a Book Illustrator

Choosing the right book illustrator is more than just finding someone with talent—it’s about finding the perfect creative partner who can bring your vision to life. Here’s what to keep in mind.

Artistic Style

Start by considering whether the book illustrator’s style matches the tone of your book. Every story has a unique vibe—whether it’s playful, whimsical, or serious—and the artwork should reflect that. Look through portfolios and ask yourself if their style evokes the emotions you want your readers to feel.

Experience and Portfolio

Experience in children’s books is crucial. A book illustrator who has worked in this field will understand how to tell a story through images, keeping young readers engaged. When reviewing portfolios, look for versatility—a book illustrator who can adapt to different styles and genres might be able to tailor their approach to your specific needs.

Communication and Collaboration

Finally, think about how well you can communicate and collaborate with the book illustrator. A good creative partnership is built on clear communication and mutual respect. During your initial discussions, gauge their openness to feedback and their enthusiasm for your project. The best collaborations happen when both parties are invested and can work together effectively.

​​Where to Find the Right Book Illustrator

Once you know what you’re looking for in a book illustrator, the next step is finding the right one. Thankfully, there are plenty of avenues to explore, from online platforms to industry events. Here are our favorites.

Professional Networks and Websites

Start with platforms like SCBWI (Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators), Behance, and DeviantArt. SCBWI is perfect for connecting with children’s book illustrators, while Behance and DeviantArt offer a broader range of styles.

You can also look at publishing companies (such as Jenkins Group) to help you design your book. When choosing between freelancers and larger organizations, consider your budget and how much project management support you’ll need—freelancers offer flexibility, while agencies provide structure and typically have more experience.

Attending Book Fairs and Industry Events

Book fairs and events like the Moonbeam Awards are excellent for meeting illustrators in person. These events allow you to see work up close, chat with artists, and find someone who’s the right fit for your project. Plus, industry panels can offer valuable insights into current trends in children’s book illustration.

Using Award-Winning Illustrators as Inspiration

Look at award-winning books (like ours!) for inspiration. These illustrators have already proven their talent, and their work can help you refine your own vision—even if you don’t hire them, studying their style can guide your search.