Before Hiring a Children’s Book Illustrator: Top 5 Questions to Ask
Hello everyone! I am Ananta Mohanta, a children’s Book illustrator. If you’re working on a children’s book, picking the right children’s book illustrator really matters. The artwork isn’t just something extra—it’s a big part of the story. Good illustrations can bring the characters to life, set the mood, and help your book leave a lasting impression.
But with so many children’s book illustrators for hire, it can feel overwhelming. Over the years, I’ve worked with authors from all over the world, and I’ve noticed the same thing: when authors ask the right questions, everything goes smoother.
Here are five questions I believe every author should ask before hiring a children’s book illustrator.
1. Can I See Work That Matches the Feel of My Story?
Every children’s book illustrator has a different way of drawing. Some use bold, graphic styles. Others prefer soft and gentle art. Some switch styles depending on the story—like I do.
Before starting a project, ask to see examples that feel similar to your story. If your book is warm and emotional, look for soft colors and expressive faces. If it’s fun and silly, you’ll want brighter tones and playful shapes.
Look closely at their past work. Do the pictures feel right to you? Are their children’s book illustration styles flexible? Do they create beautiful children’s book illustrations that match the kind of book you’re making?
2. Have You Illustrated Books with Cultural or Inclusive Themes?
Today’s stories often include characters from different backgrounds, countries, and cultures. If your story includes traditions, clothing, or family life that’s personal or cultural, your children’s book illustrator should be comfortable drawing that honestly.
Not every children’s book illustrator has experience with this, and that’s fine. What matters is whether they’re open to learning. I often ask authors for real-life photos, references, or small details that matter to them. That way, the art feels true and respectful.
If you’re writing about a culture or experience that’s close to your heart, don’t be afraid to ask your children’s book illustrator how they’ll approach it.
3. What Do You Include in Your Pricing?
Before you get started, make sure you know what’s included in the price.
Here are some good questions to ask:
- How many illustrations will you get ?
- Is the book cover included?
- Can you ask for changes, and if so, how many?
- Will you own the rights to the final artwork
As someone who works as a high quality children’s book artist, I personally offer a free demo first. After final payment, I include unlimited changes, because I want the artwork to feel just right, even if it takes a few extra steps.
Every children’s book illustrator works differently. Some might charge extra if you want to make changes later. Others might only do simple drawings without full backgrounds.
4. What’s Your Workflow Like?
It’s important to know how the children’s book illustrator works before you begin. Will they sketch out all the pages first? Will you see rough versions before the final ones? Do they want to read the whole story before starting?
Every artist has a different way of working. Some like to get early feedback. Some work silently and then deliver everything at once.
Because illustrating childrens books is a team effort, clear communication makes a big difference. Ask them what the process looks like, so there are no surprises later on.
5. Have You Worked with Authors in My Market?
If you’re publishing in the US, UK, or any other region, there may be certain formats or expectations that differ. Page sizes, reading direction, margins, and layout can change depending on where you plan to publish.
If you’re looking for a children book illustrator in US or someone who understands your publishing platform (like KDP, IngramSpark, or Apple Books), ask if they’ve worked in that market before.
Small technical details can affect how your book turns out—so it helps to work with someone who understands your needs from the start.
A Few Final Thoughts
There are many illustrators for children’s books out there. Finding someone with talent is important, but just as important is finding someone who listens and understands your story.
You don’t need to rush. Ask questions. Share your ideas. A good children’s book illustrator will respect your vision and bring their own creativity to support it.
When you and your children’s book illustrator understand each other, the story really comes alive. The characters feel real, and kids will connect with the book in a way that words alone can’t.
If you’re searching for children’s book illustrators for hire, I hope these questions help you pick the right one. And if you’re working on something special, I’d be happy to hear about it.
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