Lesson 7 of 7 Free account 4 min read
Illustrating Your Children’s Book: Illustrators, AI and Print
Choose between hiring an illustrator and using AI illustration, keep your characters consistent on every page, pick a style that fits the story, and understand the print basics of trim size and bleed.
Key takeaways
- If you are submitting to a traditional publisher, send the text only; the publisher usually chooses the illustrator.
- For self-publishing, a human illustrator brings judgment and a signature style, while AI illustration is faster and cheaper but needs careful direction.
- Character consistency comes from a written character sheet used word for word in every illustration request.
- Pick trim size early and build every image with bleed, typically 0.125 inches past the trim on outside edges for many print services.
How your book gets illustrated depends first on how you plan to publish it. The answer changes everything from who picks the art style to what files you need at the end.
Do I Need an Illustrator to Submit a Picture Book?
If you're a writer submitting to a traditional publisher or agent, usually not. Publishers typically pair the text with an illustrator they choose, and sending your own art (unless you are a professional illustrator) can hurt your chances. Submit the manuscript with minimal art notes and let them handle it.
If you are self-publishing, making a book for your family or classroom, or publishing on your own platform, illustration is your job. You have two main routes.
Keep reading with a free account
The first lesson of every course is open to everyone. Sign up free to read the rest of this lesson, its exercise and every other lesson in the Writers Academy.