Illustrator--Career Q&A: Professional Advice and Insight

What is it like to be an illustrator? In this Career Q&A video interview, Isabelle Staub talks about her career path, what she does on the job, and the keys to success as an illustrator. She also offers candid advice on breaking into the profession as well as insight into the industry's biggest challenges and how the field may change in the next ten years.

Length: 13 minutes

ORDER CODE: FFM-BVL190134

Copyright date: ©2019

Closed Captioned

Illustrator: Main Duties and Responsibilities (00:60)
Isabelle Staub works as a freelance illustrator, handling both creative and business aspects. She enjoys being her own boss and loves to create something new. Artists are always improving and learning.

Illustrator: Career Beginnings (01:49)
Staub discusses drawing at an early age and graduating from Moore College of Art and Design with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration. Her social media campaign on Walt Disney princesses' jumpstarted her career.

Illustrator: Keys for Success (00:60)
Illustrators need to have patience, a strong work ethic, and perseverance. Timelines to success vary. Always have a project on the side that you enjoy.

Illustrator: Education and Certification Requirements (01:49)
Path to becoming a freelance illustrator varies. Staub describes how she gained lifelong mentors by attending a four-year college and what inspires her. Keep current on the Adobe Suite of products.

Illustrator: Workplace Atmosphere (01:10)
Staub works from home and has space solely dedicated to her work. Her hours vary. She travels to conventions and art festivals.

Illustrator: Advice for Aspiring Pros (00:56)
Staub discusses transitioning into freelancing from art school. Individuals learn the most from their mistakes.

Illustrator: A Day on the Job (01:32)
Staub handles business elements first before working on creative projects. In a typical contract, she will make traditional rough sketches to illicit feedback from clients. Working in different mediums provides variety.

Illustrator: Industry Goals and Services (00:42)
Illustrators want to create something that brings a client's vision to life. Staub appreciates when artists contact her via social media.

Illustrator: Industry Challenges (01:04)
Challenges include underselling work and business aspects of freelancing. Some companies do not compensate artists properly.

Illustrator Looking at the Future (01:06)
The illustration industry will be thriving. Social media provides a new platform that reaches more individuals. Companies are starting to see the value of illustrators