How to Order Illustrations from a Freelance Artist

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Locate an artist to discuss your needs with.

   You may find one through telephone book listings, advertisements, or through friends who have contacts with one.
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   Step 2: Select an artist who does work similar to what you want.

   If the need is for fliers or brochures, you wouldn't go to a classical portrait artist.
   
   You may go to a graphic design studio, or to a freelancer who specializes in artwork similar to what you require. , Don't waste the artist's time while you flounder.
   
   You can ask for some input but you should know your purpose before you call. , Airbrush work, screen prints, computer generated images, hand drawn or painted work are all completely different both in appearance and the amount of labor involved. , How many illustrations would you like to start with? Size and weight of the stock (paper, fabric, or plastic) you will use.
   
   Color, and if so, color quality, black and white, glossy or matte finish, etc. , Example of the format for instructions, for illustrations, such as: a baby tiger sitting, looking forward, no background, black and white art an adult lion, standing, with a tree to his left and a rock to the right, color art a human adult hand, no background, b&w a rose, on a stem, no background, b&w a pig wearing a straw hat, running down a lane, towards the reader, past a small house, color maze of hedge rows seen from above, dog walking through maze, b&w a man’s face, Japanese features, short hair, facing front, b&w , Giving thought to these considerations prior to engaging the artist will speed the process up greatly. , A full time, professional freelance artist will usually have a set rate for their services, and their method of pricing their work may vary from one artist to another. ,
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   Step 3: Have a clear idea of what you want and what you will use it for before contacting the artist.

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   Step 4: Look at samples of the artist's previous work

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   Step 5: and find out what techniques they use.

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   Step 6: Decide on as many of the specifics listed here that you can

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   Step 7: to simplify the discussion with the artist when you meet.

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   Step 8: Be prepared to provide the following for each illustration: What elements will be included in the composition?

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   Step 9: Understand that you will have to provide specific information like the examples listed above to get exactly the product you are looking for.

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    Step 10: Discuss the cost of the artwork with the artist

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    Step 11: and find out if they prefer a contract for the entire project

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    Step 12: a unit price commission

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    Step 13: an hourly fee for work

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    Step 14: or other method of calculating price.

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    Step 15: Agree with the artist what your finished product should look like

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    Step 16: when it will be ready to pick up

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    Step 17: and what method of payment you will use.

Detailed Guide

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