Working Together
Every book has its own needs. Some authors come with a clear visual direction, while others want a more collaborative process from the very beginning. I offer a few starting points for picture book projects, with each project ultimately quoted around the story, scope, and level of illustration involved.
The Essential Book
A focused illustration package for authors with a clear vision.
For authors who already have a strong sense of their characters and visual direction and are looking for professional illustration to bring the story together.
Includes:
- Character development
- Visual planning and rough layouts
- Full-color interior illustrations
- Front cover illustration
- Two rounds of revisions during the sketch stage
- Final high-resolution artwork
- Print-ready illustration files
Starting at $4,500
Final pricing depends on manuscript length, number of illustrations, complexity, and production requirements.
The Complete Book
A collaborative illustration process from story to finished artwork.
For authors who want to work closely with their illustrator to develop the characters, visual storytelling, pacing, and overall look of the book.
Includes everything in Essential, plus:
- Manuscript and visual storytelling consultation
- Character development and reference sheets
- Detailed page-by-page visual planning
- Expanded illustration development
- Cover and supporting cover artwork
- Guidance on text placement and visual flow
- Production guidance for print and digital formats
Typically $6,500–$8,500
Most of my full picture book projects fall within this range.
The Signature Book
A deeper creative partnership for highly developed picture book projects.
For authors who want extensive visual development and a more involved creative partnership throughout the book-making process.
Includes everything in Complete, plus:
- Extensive character and environment development
- More detailed visual planning
- Additional illustration development where needed
- Additional revision stages
- Expanded cover artwork
- Book layout assistance
- Production-file preparation
- Promotional artwork derived from the finished illustrations
Starting at $9,000
Signature projects are individually quoted according to the scope and complexity of the book.
Other Illustration Services
Not every project requires a full picture book illustration package. I also work with authors and publishers on individual illustration projects, including:
Character Development
For authors who want to develop their characters before moving into full illustration.
Cover Illustration
A standalone illustration for an independently published or forthcoming children’s book.
Interior Illustration
For projects where book design and production are being handled separately.
Educational Illustration
Illustration for educational books, reading materials, learning resources, and related projects.
Have something a little different in mind?
Tell me about it. I’m happy to discuss projects that don’t fit neatly into a package.
