The Creative Process

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN HIRING ME:

 

This guide was written to help clients understand what it takes for a professional artist to create a single illustration.  When you hire me, you are investing in a professional illustrator, whose aim is to present your ideas in a clear and tangible way.  

As a professional illustrator, I strive to provide my clients with quality work at a fair price.  To do this requires good communication and an understanding of the process involved in creating your desired illustration.  The following steps are dedicated to informing you of my creative process for a single illustration at an hourly rate.

 

STEP 1:  Contact me!

Email me at paulcoxillustration@gmail.com to discuss your project.

 

STEP 2:  Project Specifications

Starting off with a blank slate can be overwhelming.  Providing me with clear specifications for your desired illustration in the beginning will help avoid multiple corrections later and allow for a smooth flow in the creative process.  There is no such thing as too much information when telling me about your illustration. It is helpful to know image size requirements, colors, style samples, project timeline, etc. In Step 2, I will provide you with a free quote based on my hourly rate regarding the project specifications.

 

STEP 3:  Rough Sketch

This is where the fun begins!  Rough sketches are the foundation of the illustration process.  Step 3 involves figuring out the best composition for the piece; lighting, shadows, character placement, backgrounds, props, color schemes, and perfecting the overall flow of the illustration.  Depending on the project, your quote may include time dedicated to research historical, geographical, and other necessary references pertaining to your project.

STEP 4:  Communication

I will message the rough sketches to you through Upwork for review, approval, or corrections.  This is the perfect time to talk revisions.

 

STEP 5:  Finished Sketch

After discussing revisions, I will refine the sketch, which then becomes the framework for the final product.

STEP 6:  Communication

The finished sketch will be messaged to you for review and final approval.

 

STEP 7:  Final Illustration

Your project is almost complete!  In this stage, I will put the finishing touches on your masterpiece.  Low resolution files will be sent for final approval. At this point, we can still make revisions if necessary.

STEP 8:  Payment

Upon successful payment, the final high resolution files will be messaged to you.  Once the project is complete, this contract will be closed.  

I hope you found this guide helpful in understanding exactly what you are investing in when you hire me.  I look forward to working with you, and/or answering any questions you may have.