How to Find a Children’s Book Illustrator (Without Losing Your Mind)
WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO SAY?
WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO DO?”
My work station ft. Castle (my all time fav crime comedy series)
That’s Castle on my TV… and honestly, it’s the same thing most authors whisper when they start emailing illustrators.
Because yes finding the right children’s book illustrator can feel like a full Castle-style mystery: lots of clues, too many suspects, confusing evidence, dramatic turns… and no idea where to start.
But don’t worry. I’ve got you.
Your search officially begins Castle style - simple steps, clear clues, honest advice, and zero crime-scene chaos.
Now let’s follow the clues… and solve this case together.
Good luck, partner. 🔎✨
Case file open.
STEP 1 - Before You Even Start Searching: Know What YOU Need
This is the part most authors skip… and then wonder why they’re lost.
Before contacting an illustrator, get clarity on your book:
Write down:
Age group you’re writing for
Art style you envision (soft, whimsical, bold, painterly, cartoony, etc.)
References (Pinterest boards, other books you love, or mood boards)
Number of illustrations you think the book requires
A realistic timeline (children’s books take weeks to months, not days!)
Your budget for the entire illustration project
Story summary
Character descriptions (visual notes help A LOT)
Where you live & where the book will be published
(This impacts contract terms, taxes, and usage rights.)
❗ Important: Do NOT ask the illustrator “What do you charge for a whole picture book?” upfront.
Illustrators can’t price a book they haven’t seen.
First, send:
your manuscript OR book your summary
your estimated illustration count
and your budget range
THEN the illustrator can give you accurate pricing.
Pricing Tip
Each illustrator has their own per-illustration or per-project rate. Some have a range. Always ask them directly and discuss openly.
STEP 2 - Where to Actually Find the Right Illustrator
Here are the BEST places simple, effective, not overwhelming:
A) Industry Platforms
SCBWI (Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators)
Their illustrator gallery is full of professionals.Behance
Great for browsing polished portfolios.
B) Social Media
Search using hashtags like:
#childrensbookillustrator
#kidlitart
#picturebookart
#kidlitartist
C) Facebook Groups (Very active, excellent for authors!)
Here are some reliable ones:
Children’s Book Authors & Illustrators
Children’s Book Illustration - No Ai
Children’s Books Authors, Writers, Illustrators
Children’s Book Authors and Illustrators: Publishing, Marketing and Selling
(If you want, I can also provide direct URLs for each.)
D) Illustrator Portfolios
Most illustrators have their own websites, Instagram, or agency pages.
If you find an art style that makes you stop scrolling save it!
STEP 3 - How to Choose the RIGHT Illustrator for Your Book
When evaluating illustrators, look for:
✔ Consistency
Their characters should look the same across angles and emotions.
✔ Understanding of storytelling
They should know how to guide a reader visually from page to page.
✔ Experience with your age category
Board books ≠ picture books ≠ chapter books.
✔ Style match
If your story is dreamy and soft, don’t hire someone whose style is bold and graphic.
STEP 4 - Red Flags to Watch Out For
Not all illustrators are a good fit. Watch for:
🚩 Unclear communication
🚩 Unrealistic timelines (“I can finish in 3 days!”)
🚩 No contract or vague contract
🚩 No portfolio
🚩 Using AI-generated art and calling it original
🚩 Extremely low pricing (usually means inexperience or low commitment)
Trust your gut. If something feels off, walk away.
STEP 5 - How to Contact an Illustrator the RIGHT Way
Authors often worry: “What am I supposed to say in the email?”
(Thank you Castle for inspiring this moment.)
Don’t worry, I’ve made this easy.
Your first email should include:
What to send:
Brief introduction
Where you’re based
Where you plan to publish the book
Manuscript (or summary if you aren’t ready to share full text)
Character descriptions
Your estimated number of illustrations
Your preferred timeline
Your budget range
Whether you need illustrations only or illustration + formatting
Links to any reference images/mood boards
What NOT to send or ask:
🚫 “What do you charge for a full book?” (without sharing details)
🚫 “Can you give me 3 free sample illustrations?”
🚫 “Can you lower your prices because I’m a new author?”
Be respectful of the illustrator’s time, and they will respond in the same energy.
Final Thoughts
Finding a children’s book illustrator doesn’t have to be confusing, exhausting, or overwhelming. When you’re clear about what you want, know where to search, and approach illustrators with the right information you will absolutely find the perfect creative partner for your story.
Your book deserves the right visuals.
Your readers deserve magic.
And you deserve confidence through the whole process.
If you ever need guidance I'm always here, cheering for you and your beautiful stories. ✨
