Illustrator Job Description

Find out what illustration jobs are like.

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What Is an Illustration Job Like?

As the old saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words. Which is why, now and then, we all need someone to draw us a diagram. Illustration is a very powerful tool. When you need to explain your point, set a mood, tell a story or simply add visual interest to a page, an illustration can go miles toward communicating your message.

In an illustration job you may find yourself working in a variety of industries. There are opportunities designing video game sets, creating storyboards for films or commercials, or illustrating medical textbooks—to name a few options. No matter where you end up, an illustration job will definitely give you the opportunity for creative expression.

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Illustration Job Duties

Your illustrator job description will include more than just creating artwork. You will also spend time doing the following kinds of things:

Communicating with customers
Brainstorming and creating drafts of ideas
Creating a project timeline and meeting deadlines
Working with printers or others to ensure the quality of the final product

Illustrator Job Description: Essential Skills

Artistic Skill – In an illustration job, your drawing or painting ability is your most marketable skill. You can enhance your natural talent by taking classes that will help you perfect your technique and develop your knowledge of color and composition. Attending an art school with an illustration program may also help you build the skills you’ll need to market yourself, learn new technology and create a compelling portfolio.

Technical Ability – Illustrators often use computers to produce their work. Having technical ability will help you in your illustration job. Whether you want to use computer-generated effects or edit your work easily, computer software can help you achieve results.

Social Skills – The majority of illustrators freelance, so you’ll need to be able to network to find illustration jobs. Social skills are very important to an illustrator. Initiating and maintaining customer relationships requires people skills. You’ll need to be able to communicate your ideas clearly and be willing to receive customer feedback or criticism.

Is an Illustration Career for You?

If you have the talent to be an illustrator, you can make a living in an art career you love. An illustration job can help you turn art into more than just a hobby.