You could do a higher national diploma or degree in illustration or a related subject like fine art or graphic design.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- between 1 and 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a higher national diploma or degree
Illustrators create visual images to communicate ideas, stories, or messages for books, magazines, advertisements, websites, packaging, and more. They use traditional drawing skills as well as digital tools and software such as Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop. This career often involves working closely with clients or art directors to produce work that fits specific briefs. Many illustrators are self-employed, while others may work in-house for publishers, design agencies, or media companies. Attention to detail, creativity, and strong communication skills are important, as is the ability to meet deadlines and adapt to different styles and client requirements.
Illustrators in the UK typically earn between £18,000 and £40,000 per year, with experienced freelancers or those working for major publishers earning more.
There are an estimated 30,000 professional illustrators working in the UK, with many more working part-time or on a freelance basis.
Common sectors for illustrators include publishing, advertising, fashion, and the gaming industry.
Create engaging and imaginative illustrations specifically for children's books, helping to bring stories to life for young readers.
Produce detailed drawings and diagrams used in medical textbooks, journals, and educational materials to help explain complex medical concepts.
Work with magazines, newspapers, or online publications to create illustrations that accompany articles and features, helping to visually communicate ideas and news stories.
Spend time each day sketching from life, reference images, or your imagination to improve your drawing abilities.
Regular practice is essential for developing strong drawing skills, which are the foundation of illustration. Try different subjects such as people, animals, objects, and scenes. Use sketchbooks to track your progress and experiment with various styles and techniques.
Study the basics of colour theory and how to arrange elements in a picture to create effective compositions.
Understanding how colours work together and how to guide the viewer's eye through an image is crucial for illustrators. Explore resources like online tutorials or art books, and analyse illustrations you admire to see how professionals use these principles.
Produce finished pieces that showcase your abilities in different styles and for various audiences.
Your portfolio should demonstrate your versatility and unique artistic voice. Include work that reflects the type of illustration you want to pursue, such as children’s books, editorial, advertising, or digital art. Aim for quality over quantity and update your portfolio as your skills improve.
Organise your portfolio in a clear, attractive way, either as a physical folder or an online website.
An online portfolio is highly recommended, as many clients and employers prefer to view work digitally. Use free platforms or build your own website to display your art. Make sure your contact details are easy to find and that your portfolio loads quickly and looks good on different devices.
Look into art and design courses at college or university, such as an Art Foundation Diploma or a degree in Illustration.
While not essential, formal qualifications can help you develop your skills, understand the industry, and build a network. Many illustrators study art at GCSE and A-level, then progress to higher education. Research courses that include practical projects and industry links.
Take on freelance projects, internships, or volunteer opportunities to build real-world experience.
Experience working with clients or publishers helps you learn about deadlines, briefs, and professional standards. You can find opportunities through online platforms, local businesses, or by approaching publishers and agencies directly. Even small projects help you understand the business side of illustration.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Illustrator. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
You can get into this job through:
You could do a higher national diploma or degree in illustration or a related subject like fine art or graphic design.
You'll usually need:
You could do a course in art and design to help you become an illustrator.
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
You could take an apprenticeship to learn some of the skills you need to get started as an illustrator, like:
You'll usually need:
If you do not have art or design qualifications, you can contact companies directly to share examples of your work.
You can find information on the Writers' & Artists' Yearbook on how to:
As a freelance illustrator you'll need a portfolio to showcase your work. You'll need this to get onto a course or to show clients.
You might want to create your portfolio on:
If you're working freelance, you can sell your work directly or through an agent.
Agents have access to a large network of buyers and will take a percentage of your sales as commission. The Society of Artists Agents has details of agents as well as examples of artists' work.
You can get more details about working in illustration from the Association of Illustrators (AOI).
You can get information on working in creative careers from Discover Creative Careers.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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