Bring your story to life!

If you’ve ever dreamed of publishing your own book, especially a children’s story, you’re already aware of how important the illustrations for your book will be.

You will work one-on-one with your artist to ensure perfection.  Collaboration is primarily done through email, and the artist will not make any changes or proceed with any concepts without your approval.  Changes are allowed, but may be accompanied by a fee depending on the artist.  A contract will be drafted beforehand between you and your artist that will cover such stipulations.

The Process:

1.  Download the PDF of the Illustration Request Form and either email it back to us or print it off and mail it.  Pricing is indicated and custom tailored to fit your needs.

2.  Your artist will call you for an initial consultation.  During this conversation, the artist will start to flesh out your idea and make sure you are both on the same page.  Deadlines and pricing will also be discussed.

3.  As drafts are created, the artist will email them to you in JPEG format for your approval.  At this time, changes are easily made and free of charge.

4.  Once you’ve approved the drafts, the artist will begin finalizing them into the official pages.  Upon or near completion, the artist will send you JPEG versions for your final review.

 

What kind of styles do you offer?

Any kind that you need.  We currently have enough artists for you to pick the kind of style you desire- whether that be photo-realism, cartoon, or a more “computer generated” feel.  Our artists can also replicate styles of your choosing.  If you don’t know where to start, your artist can direct you on your initial consultation.  Keep in mind that once a direction is chosen, it is time consuming for the artist to change what’s been created already and may incur a fee.

How long does it take?

It depends on the length of the book, how many illustrations per page, the media chosen (i.e. acrylic paintings will take longer than charcoal sketches), if the artist has any other commissions ahead of yours, etc.  Your artist will be able to determine this for you during the initial consult.

Do I have to provide photo reference?

It depends on your artist.  If you’d like a photo-realistic style, any photo reference is greatly appreciated.  It cuts down on research time.  We do not accept photos that are not accompanied with written permission by the photographer that indicates that the photographer understands how his or her images will be used.

Will you edit the text?

Usually, no.  If we find any errors, we will notify you immediately; but otherwise, we will not make “suggestions” or changes unless you specifically ask for it.  In that case, we will submit it to our Creative Director free of charge.

Can you just create a few sample illustrations for free before I decide…?

No.  Wecan send you examples of an artist’s past work. “Sample” illustrations are charged as any other illustration commission.

Do you accept royalties as payment?

No.  As there are no guarantees of book sale and the artist may or may not need a down payment to pay for supplies in order to get the project started, we unfortunately cannot accept royalties as payment.

Will you publish the book?

Unfortunately, we do not offer publishing services at this time.  There are many resources available, and we may be able to direct you to some on your final consultation.

Will I be able to keep the final illustrations (original artwork)?

Yes, provided they are not digitally created.  Additionally, your scanned illustrations will be permanently retained on file at Unlimited Art Studios.  You will also be sent a CD of all of the work you commissioned the artist to do, including the final renderings.

Can I make prints of the illustrations?

Yes.  They are available as gicleés on archival watercolor paper as well as gallery wrapped canvas.  Call 608-514-6247 or speak to your artist for more details.  They make great wall art, gifts, as well as greeting cards.

Can you create custom fonts?

Yes, and this is an especially effective tool for children’s stories where there is a greater picture to text ratio.  Let your artist know on your initial consultation.  This is a step that can be done at any time.

 

 

Call 608-514-6247 for your free consultation today!  Or, email us with any questions and an artist will respond within 1-2 business days.

Comments or questions are welcome.