Hi all illustrators and other creative freelancers. I decided that it is better later than never, so I am posting a message about one of my favorite illustration-related books. I know there is a lot of 'how to' books available at the bookshops now, especially for self-employed people, and I've read some of those. 99% of them didn't tell me anything new at all, some were just crap, some too abstract without most important details on finding commissioner, charging, staying a professional instead of falling into 'i've have a degree in illustration but i have to work at starbucks to support myself and my self-initiated projects that i make after work'.
so for those who aim to be professionals, i can honestly recommend 1 book, published by Laurence Kings Publishing - 'How to be an illustrator' by Darrel Rees. Its not one of those 'how to draw' books - its more like a survival guide for freelancers; very detailed chapters on how 'to avoid the pitfalls that can ruin a career, with advice on crucial first impressions, how to create a portfolio and approach clients, how to negotiate contracts, and how to handle, deliver and bill the first job. It discusses setting up a studio, maintaining a steady flow of work and managing time and money, and provides information on successful self-promotion, self-publishing and the pros and cons of agents. Packed with useful tips gleaned from the author's own career and his work as an agent handling major artists in the US and UK, the book includes interviews with nine big-name illustrators.'
shortly about the author from publishers website: "
Darrel Rees has worked as an illustrator since 1986, joining influential London studio The Big Orange' in 1992. In 1994 he co-founded illustration agency Heart (London and New York). He contributed to The Education of an Illustrator, edited by Steven Heller. He is a member of the Society of Publication Designers in New York and the D&AD in the UK, acting as a jury foreman on its awards scheme."
