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 images to communicate ideas, tell stories, or provide visual explanations for a variety of clients. Their work appears in books, magazines, advertisements, packaging, websites, and even animations. In the UK, illustrators may work in-house for publishers or design agencies, but many are self-employed and work freelance on a project basis. The role involves discussing requirements with clients, researching subjects, developing concepts, and using traditional or digital techniques to create final artwork. Strong drawing skills, creativity, and the ability to adapt to different styles are important in this career. Illustrators often build a portfolio to showcase their work and attract new clients.
Illustrators in the UK typically earn between £18,000 and £40,000 per year, with experienced professionals and those working for established publishers or design agencies earning more.
According to the Creative Industries Federation, there are around 15,000 professional illustrators working in the UK, with many more working on a freelance or part-time basis.
Over 60 percent of UK illustrators work freelance, often taking on projects from publishing, advertising, education, and digital media sectors.
Specialises in creating illustrations for children's storybooks, working closely with authors and publishers to bring stories to life.
Produces artwork to accompany magazine and newspaper articles, helping to visually explain or add interest to written content.
Creates detailed drawings or digital images to help explain medical or scientific information, often working for textbooks, journals, or educational materials.
Spend time every day sketching to improve your technique and creativity.
Try drawing a variety of subjects, such as people, animals, objects, and scenes. Experiment with different materials like pencils, inks, watercolours, and digital tools to find your preferred style. Building a daily habit helps you progress and develop confidence in your skills.
Study different styles of illustration and experiment to find your own unique approach.
Look at the work of professional illustrators in books, magazines, online portfolios, and social media. Try recreating their styles as practice, then adapt techniques that appeal to you. Developing a signature style can help you stand out in the industry.
Study art and design at GCSE, A-level, or equivalent to build foundational knowledge.
Courses in art, graphic design, or illustration can teach you essential techniques and introduce you to industry-standard software. Schools and colleges may also provide access to workshops, equipment, and guidance from experienced teachers.
Consider a university degree or diploma in illustration or a related subject.
Many illustrators complete a degree in illustration, graphic design, or fine art. Some colleges offer HNDs or foundation degrees as well. These programmes often include work placements, portfolio development, and opportunities to network with industry professionals.
Assemble a collection of your best work to showcase your abilities to potential clients or employers.
Include a range of projects that demonstrate your skills, creativity, and adaptability. Show examples of editorial, book, advertising, and digital illustration if possible. Keep your portfolio up to date as your style and experience evolve.
Share your illustrations on personal websites and social media platforms.
Building an online presence helps you reach a wider audience and attract commissions. Use platforms like Instagram, Behance, or a personal website to display your portfolio. Engage with the creative community and potential clients by posting regularly and participating in illustration challenges.
Apply for internships, freelance projects, or entry-level positions to gain industry experience.
Real-world experience helps you understand client briefs, deadlines, and working with feedback. Look for opportunities in publishing houses, advertising agencies, or online platforms that connect freelancers with clients. Volunteering for local projects or competitions can also build your reputation.
Connect with other illustrators, designers, and clients to grow your professional network.
Attend industry events, exhibitions, and workshops to meet potential collaborators and clients. Joining professional organisations, such as the Association of Illustrators, can provide support, resources, and exposure to new opportunities.
Graphic designers combine images, typography, and layout to create visual communications for branding, advertising, and print or digital publications.
Animators create moving images for film, television, games, and digital media, often working closely with illustrators to bring characters and scenes to life.
Concept artists develop visual ideas for characters, environments, and props for video games, films, and animations, using illustration and design skills.
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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