How to Spot a High Quality Children’s Book Artist: 7 Insider Tips for Authors
If you’re an author working on a children’s book, finding the right illustrator can feel like walking into a crowded room and trying to pick out the perfect creative partner. Everyone’s smiling. Everyone looks talented. But who’s truly going to understand your story — and bring it to life?
Over the years, I’ve worked with writers from all over the world. Some knew exactly what they wanted. Others had a story and a dream, but no idea where to begin with the visuals. And that’s okay. Whether you’re self-publishing or working with a small press, choosing a high quality children’s book artist is one of the most important steps in your publishing journey.
Here are seven things I think every author should keep in mind when looking for illustrators for children’s books. These are things I’ve learned from both sides — as an artist and as someone who’s helped many authors figure this stuff out, step by step.
1. Style is important — but story comes first.
When you browse portfolios of children’s book illustrators, you’ll notice a wide range of styles. Watercolor, digital, textured, flat, sketchy, detailed — it can be a bit overwhelming.
But here’s the thing: it’s not just about the style. It’s about how well the artist can tell a story through pictures. A great children’s book illustrator brings emotion to the characters, shows movement, and captures the tone of each scene — all while keeping it appealing for young readers.
Look for someone who understands pacing, character expression, and visual storytelling. That’s what makes an illustration magical.
2. Look for experience in children’s books specifically.
This sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how many artists call themselves illustrators for children’s book projects without actually having experience in the format.
Children’s books have their own rhythm. There’s a certain way the pages flow, how illustrations need to work with the text (or around it), and how the art should evolve with the story. That’s something only someone who has worked on actual children’s book illustrations will fully grasp.
Experience shows. Ask to see completed book samples — not just character designs or random pieces.
3. Communication matters more than you think.
You might find the most talented children’s book illustrator in the world — but if communication is slow, unclear, or stressful, it won’t be a smooth process.
Look for someone who listens. Someone who asks good questions about your story, shares their process openly, and makes space for feedback. The best children’s book illustrators for hire know how to balance creativity with collaboration. You’re building something together, after all.
Also, take note of how timely they are with responses. If it’s hard to get a reply during the early phase, that’s usually a red flag.
4. Ask about the full process — not just the art.
This is where many first-time authors get stuck. They find a children book illustrator they like, but they don’t know what to expect next.
A professional should be able to guide you through the entire process — from sketches and rough layouts to final colored pages and print-ready files. They should talk you through the timeline, revision policy, and what you’ll receive at the end.
Some illustrators children’s book projects even help with layout or file formatting for platforms like Amazon KDP or IngramSpark. Don’t hesitate to ask.
5. Don’t choose based on price alone.
I get it — budgets can be tight. But choosing the cheapest option often leads to disappointment. I’ve seen too many authors come to me after paying for illustrations that weren’t usable or didn’t fit their story at all.
That doesn’t mean you need to hire famous children’s book illustrators either. There are many skilled artists out there offering fair, reasonable rates. Just make sure you’re comparing more than just numbers — look at the quality, communication, flexibility, and overall experience they offer.
A good investment in a high quality children’s book artist often pays off in the long run — with a better book, better reviews, and more reader engagement.
6. Look for storytelling in the portfolio, not just pretty pictures.
This ties back to Tip #1, but it’s worth repeating. The best children’s book illustrators don’t just create beautiful images — they move the story forward. You can feel it when you look at their pages. There’s action. There’s flow. The characters change and grow from beginning to end.
Flip through a few sample books or spreads. Do the characters feel like they’re really in the moment — not stiff or posed, but full of energy and emotion? And what about the setting? Does it pull you in, or does it just sit there behind the action?
When you’re finding illustrators for a children’s book, this is something to pay close attention to. Great art doesn’t just sit on the page — it moves with the story. That’s the kind of work that keeps young readers turning the pages.
7. Trust your gut
This might sound strange coming from someone who works with contracts and file formats all day — but honestly, trust your instincts.
You’re going to be working closely with this person. If something feels off in the first conversation — if you feel misunderstood or rushed — it might not be the right fit.
The strongest author–illustrator relationships are built on trust and shared excitement. When you talk to the illustrator, it should feel like they really understand what your story is about. You should actually look forward to seeing what they’ll create next — like you’re on the same creative team.
Final Thoughts
The best bond between authors and illustrators grow from trust and genuine connection. When you talk to an illustrator, you should feel like they truly get your story. That sense of “Yes, they understand!” matters.
You should be looking forward to what they’ll create — not worried or second-guessing things.
In the end, working with a children’s book illustrator should feel exciting. Like your story is finally coming to life, one sketch at a time.When you find someone who communicates clearly, respects your vision, and adds heart to the story through their art — that’s when the magic happens.
I always say this to authors who contact me: It’s not just about hiring someone. It’s about building a book together. Whether you’re new to publishing or already have books under your belt, take the time to find a high quality children’s book artist who’s right for your story.
And if you ever want to chat, see a free demo, or just ask questions about the process — I’m happy to help. There’s room in this world for more beautiful children’s books, and I’d love to be part of bringing yours to life.
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