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Check out a sample of the 914 Illustrator jobs posted on Upwork
$50
Fixed-price
Intermediate
Experience level
Hi I'm looking for a 3 d illustrations for a website that sells classic cars. I've attached an ai render that will give an idea of th…
Less than 30 hrs/week
Hours needed
1 to 3 months
Duration
Expert
Experience level
Hello talented individuals of Upwork, We are a room rental company based in Berlin, offering rooms to people from around the world who…
$160
Fixed-price
Expert
Experience level
Industry: Defence Focus: Internal Security and Smart Governance I am seeking a talented illustrator to design 4 illustrations in a sty…
Less than 30 hrs/week
Hours needed
1 to 3 months
Duration
Intermediate
Experience level
We are in search of a talented illustrator to create six vibrant illustrations for canvas fabric backdrops. These illustrations will se…
not_sure
Hours needed
More than 6 months
Duration
Expert
Experience level
Hello there, I am looking for someone who can teach me to sketch for character design. I like stylized art style. Thank you!
Less than 30 hrs/week
Hours needed
Less than 1 month
Duration
Expert
Experience level
I need someone to create artwork as provided in a reference that's in editable format. It should be followed 90% with exact colours, fo…
$26
Fixed-price
Entry
Experience level
Please read all before applying. This is a low budget job at the start ! Upwork rules say we cannot ask for a sample. I am not lookin…
$100
Fixed-price
Intermediate
Experience level
We are looking for a talented Drawing Artist with a creative interpretation for our project. The ideal candidate will have a strong por…
Less than 30 hrs/week
Hours needed
Less than 1 month
Duration
Expert
Experience level
Currently in Beta Launch, Better Body Work helps people find bodyworkers and massage therapists that are a good fit for them based on l…
$30
Fixed-price
Intermediate
Experience level
We are looking for a talented artist who can create a captivating African artwork to be printed on a t-shirt. The artwork should depict…
can earn $15–$45/hr.
$15 $45
Median hourly rates (USD)
How to Become a Freelance Illustrator
If you have artistic ability and enjoy sketching, drawing, and technology, you may have a future as a freelance illustrator. Artistic ability is the primary requisite to become a freelance illustrator. An ability to draw, sketch, use computer software to conceive and develop artwork, and otherwise create attractive illustrations is a starting point to being a freelance illustrator. A track record of creating graphic illustrations for clients or an employer also goes a long way in positioning yourself as a freelance illustrator.
What does a freelance illustrator do?
A freelance illustrator develops and delivers artistic work, including graphics, images, logos, characters, and children’s books, to individuals or corporate clients. The types of illustrations needed by clients varies, depending on the project being hired for.
The scope of illustrations could include anything from developing comic book characters for a publishing company to providing images for a greeting card company to drawing portraits for families. The finished work could include art created on a canvas or digital files created with the use of computer software.
What skills do I need to become a freelance illustrator?
To become a freelance illustrator, a college education may be helpful, but a degree is not necessary. Attending art school could set you apart from the competition, but it isn’t necessarily required. The primary requirement an aspiring illustrator must have is the ability to create attractive illustrations. Depending on your career path, additional skills might be useful.
Common skills a freelance illustrator should possess include:
- Ability to create illustrations that are attractive to various audiences
- Experience using design software, including Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop
- Ability to meet client deadlines
- Understanding of tools used on different surfaces, such as canvas, paper, and acrylic
- Bachelor’s degree (recommendation) in graphic design, fine arts, or related field
- A website, portfolio, or social media profile to showcase your best work
What are the job responsibilities of a freelance illustrator?
A full-time or a freelance illustrator may have a number of responsibilities ranging from ensuring availability of proper tools needed to complete an assignment to understanding in detail what a client wants. Freelance illustrators can be found working on numerous projects such as children’s books, editorial illustrations, or on graphic novels, to name just a few examples.
In addition, a freelancer will be responsible for:
- Determining the proper illustration tools and platforms in which to complete requested client work
- Understanding and executing in relation to the requirements established by the client
- Completing illustration projects on time and within budget
- Asking questions if unclear on assignments
- Working with potential clients along with art directors, graphic designers, and advertising agencies
Jump-start your career as an illustrator on Upwork and start looking for your first job. Eager to learn more about illustrator jobs on Upwork? Check out these additional resources:
Upwork is not affiliated with and does not sponsor or endorse any of the tools or services discussed in this section. These tools and services are provided only as potential options, and each reader and company should take the time needed to adequately analyse and determine the tools or services that would best fit their specific needs and situation.
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