SO YOU WANT TO BE AN ILLUSTRATOR?

Summary

In this video, an experienced illustrator and art teacher explains what it takes to become a professional illustrator, clarifying the differences between illustration and concept art. He discusses the key aspects of the role, including the job's definition, lifestyle, career paths, and the portfolio needed to succeed. With insights on freelancing, studio work, and the importance of social media for exposure, the video offers valuable advice for aspiring artists. The creator also emphasizes the importance of improving skills and staying active in the art community to land opportunities in the competitive industry.

Takeaways

• 😀 Illustrating as a career is fulfilling and enjoyable, but it’s important to understand the differences between illustration and concept art.
• 🎨 Concept artists design environments and characters, while illustrators focus on creating beautiful promotional art for those designs.
• 📚 Illustration work can be seen on trading cards, video game covers, novels, posters, splash screens, and even medical illustrations.
• 🖼️ The typical workflow for illustrators involves receiving a brief, sketching compositions, and creating the final illustration with feedback from the team or clients.
• 💪 Being an illustrator requires great fundamental skills across the board, making it one of the most skill-demanding art jobs.
• 🌍 Relocation is often necessary for those pursuing a career in illustration, with industry hubs located in specific cities worldwide.
• 🖥️ Freelance illustrators have more flexibility but need strong marketing, self-promotion, and business management skills to succeed.
• 🔄 A successful freelance career takes time to build, often requiring persistence in establishing a reputation and securing consistent work.
• 📚 Art education can be expensive, and traditional art school is not always the best route, especially in countries with high tuition fees.
• 📱 Social media is crucial for exposure, with consistent posting and engaging with the art community helping to build a presence and attract clients.
• 🖼️ Portfolios should showcase 30-40 of your best works, preferably focusing on your preferred specialty (characters or environments) to demonstrate expertise.

Q & A

What is the main difference between an illustrator and a concept artist?

Concept artists design environments, characters, and other elements, while illustrators take those designs and create promotional or emotional artwork meant to sell a product or convey a message. Illustrators focus more on creating finished artwork that communicates emotions, such as promotional art, book covers, or video game splash screens.

What are the essential skills required to be an illustrator?

An illustrator needs strong foundational skills in drawing, color theory, anatomy, composition, and other fundamental art principles. If working freelance, entrepreneurial skills are also essential for managing projects, client relations, and marketing.

Can you explain the work environment and lifestyle of an illustrator?

As an illustrator, especially in a big studio, you'll likely need to relocate to an entertainment hub (like California or Montreal). Your work may involve regular feedback cycles, with revisions based on input from art directors and clients. Freelance illustrators often work from home but need to manage their own business aspects, including marketing, invoicing, and finding new clients.

How do illustrators find job opportunities in the industry?

Illustrators often get job opportunities by building a strong portfolio and gaining exposure through social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Engaging with the art community, posting regularly, and actively seeking feedback can lead to recognition and job offers. Networking and participating in art communities can open doors for collaborations and paid projects.

Is attending art school necessary to become a successful illustrator?

While art school can be helpful for some, it is not a requirement to become a successful illustrator. A large portion of students who attend art school don't end up in creative careers. Instead, many illustrators develop their skills independently or through online resources, avoiding the high costs associated with traditional education.

What should an illustrator’s portfolio look like to get hired?

An illustrator’s portfolio should consist of 30-40 of their best works, showcasing a clear style and specialty, whether that's character design, environments, or something else. It’s essential to focus on quality over quantity and update the portfolio regularly to reflect your current skill level. Old, outdated work should be removed unless it’s a standout piece.

How important is social media for freelance illustrators?

Social media is crucial for freelance illustrators to gain exposure. Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok allow you to showcase your work, connect with potential clients, and join art communities. Consistency is key—posting regularly and engaging with other artists can help build your audience and increase opportunities.

What is the significance of specialization for illustrators in a large studio?

In large studios, specialists tend to be more valuable than generalists. Specializing in either characters, environments, or a specific niche makes you more competitive for the limited number of illustrator positions available in AAA studios. It also allows you to command higher pay, as companies typically hire fewer illustrators than concept artists.

How can illustrators succeed as freelancers?

Freelance illustrators must be proactive in finding clients and managing their own business. This involves marketing yourself online, handling client communications, invoicing, and building a reputation. As you gain more exposure, clients will begin to reach out to you, but it takes time and effort to establish yourself in the industry.

What are some potential career paths or job opportunities for illustrators beyond big studios?

Illustrators can explore a wide variety of career paths, including working for indie studios, creating illustrations for books, magazines, or medical publications, designing promotional art for games or films, or even working in niche fields like medical illustration. Freelance work offers more flexibility, and illustrators can also sell digital art assets, open an online shop, or create a Patreon for steady income.