How to build a credible illustration portfolio (even as a student)
Cover illustration by Nishka Basu, Art Direction by Gab K De Jesus
As a student illustrator, paid illustration jobs are rare. For those who can’t find work (or aren’t allowed to), don’t fret! There are many ways to build your reputation and showcase your professionalism, even without being hired.
Why care? Isn’t job hunting all about your portfolio, and skill level?
To a certain extent. When I asked NPR art director LA Johnson what separated an amateur from professional illustrator, she immediately said “good communication”.
Good art gets your foot in the door. Your professionalism and ability to work with others keeps you the job.
So, here are ways I’ve found work and built up credibility as an illustrator, even as a student.
Look In Your Existing Network
Illustration for visual communication is used everywhere. Ask friends and colleagues if they have anything that needs illustrating. Often, people from other fields are unaware that illustration can meet their needs. That’s where you come in.
Attach a Name to Your Art
Working with other students is great, but student projects often exist in a vacuum. There’s less weight behind it, compared to working with actual clients.
That’s why it’s not recommended to say your illustrations were made for class. Talk about the creative brief, the problem you solved! If you want to be seen as a professional, everything from your branding to your writing should communicate that.
Although we can’t do paid work, there are a lot of volunteer groups, non-profits, and content creators that you can work with.
Get used to sending emails and pitching yourself. Familiarize yourself with the brand’s goals, and how your art can provide value to them. There’s nothing rude about emailing ‘randomly’. If anything, your initiative will be respected by the person.
As an example of how names add to credibility, I recently started illustrating for SCAD student media publications. Aside from building confidence that I can meet deadlines, I started attaching SCAD’s name to my art, and reaching more people on LinkedIn.
Study The Pros
The transition from student to professional can seem unclear. It helps to research how your professional inspirations present themselves, and how they showcase the same briefs you do. What separates you from these professionals? Are they using mockups? Maybe using bigger thumbnails? Simplifying with 1 page galleries?
I’ve noticed that a lot of illustrators underestimate the importance of presentation. Typos, bad graphic design, and glitches can hurt your credibility. A client might think you can’t be trusted with larger projects, so be strict with yourself!
Shout It From the Hills
As you build up your reputation, you should always be letting people know what you’re up to. Let friends know you’re an illustrator. Share business cards and your art Instagram with new colleagues.
It’s no secret that a lot of work comes from word-of-mouth. You want people to see you as the go-to creative for your thing. Everything from what you talk about, how you act, what you share, who you interact with: more promotion means more work.
For example, a production design friend was looking for a children’s book illustrator. She reached out to me since she knew I did illustration. In turn, I reached out to 2-3 illustrators I knew did a lot of children’s book art. Ideally, you’re one of those names in your chosen field.
To that end, share your successes! You’re not bragging, you’re inviting others to come along the journey as your hard work pays off. Some examples:
- Share successes such as awards, prizes, and special features like Miriam Martincic
- Update your audience/peers whenever you hit a milestone or try something new like James Jean
- Share about upcoming projects or collaborations like Ashley Wood
I hope the tips were helpful. If you’d like feedback on your portfolio, feel free to shoot me an email at gabkdejesus@gmail.com! Cheers.
Interested in contributing illustration or writing to La Pacharette? Send your portfolio or idea at the same email.
