As an illustrator I'm experienced in working with both publishing companies and authors who are wanting to self-publish. All my work is hand-drawn but created digitally using Procreate and Adobe Photoshop. I'm experienced in creating the front and rear cover designs as well as any spot illustrations for extra internal pages (eg. Dedication page). For an additional fee I also provide a formatting service using Adobe InDesign and Affinity Publisher to make the book print-ready for Ingram Spark, Amazon KDP and Off-set Printing for both paperback and hardback picture books. I have an offset printer that I can highly recommend as well who are reasonably priced with a minimum run of 200 copies.
I work closely with my clients so that they are fully part of the process at all times. Using Dropbox, I'm able to share the files with the client where they can offer feedback at any time. This is how the process works -
1. Firstly, I start by creating the character designs which are sent to the client for approval.
2. Once these are signed off, I then begin sketching out the spreads for the book, which are then compiled in Affinity Publisher to create a PDF of the book. This enables the client to see how the story will flow, and any changes/revisions can be done at this point.
3. As soon as the PDF is signed off, I'll then make a start on creating the final illustrations for each spread. These are created in CMYK at 400dpi. This is the longest part of the process, and each illustration will be uploaded to Dropbox for the client's approval.
4. If required, I'll then create the final print-ready formatting of the covers, spine and interior of the book using Adobe Indesign.
In terms of the contract, I retain the copyright for my illustrations which are then licensed on agreement with the client for the purposes of the project.