How To Get A Job As An Illustrator

Professionals on Upwork rate clients

on average from 2M+ reviews

Check out a sample of the 4,847 Illustrator jobs posted on Upwork

$260
Fixed Price

Expert
Experience Level

We want to hire an all rounder digital marketing expert who specialize in youtube and content marketing as well as good with designing…

Less than 30 hrs/week
Hours needed

Less than 1 month
Duration

Intermediate
Experience Level

Hello, I am starting a T- shirt business and need help designing some of the quote I have in mind. Attached below is a photo of the fe…

$90
Fixed Price

Intermediate
Experience Level

Hello all. I am seeking an AMAZING artist to draw a lion with a crown on his head. I have attached examples, and would need the lion to…

Less than 30 hrs/week
Hours needed

1 to 3 months
Duration

Expert
Experience Level

Hi, I'm looking for 2D animators or a studio to create a ~30 second animation. 2 characters in roughly 15 scenes, with dynamic transit…

Less than 30 hrs/week
Hours needed

Less than 1 month
Duration

Intermediate
Experience Level

New clothing brand is looking for talented designers. Our main stream is Hoodies, sweatpants , lounge wear. Basically style is casual c…

Hours to be determined
Hours needed

3 to 6 months
Duration

Intermediate
Experience Level

I have started anew sight but before i go any further i like to as professional as possible, This can turn into along a very profitable…

$80
Fixed Price

Entry
Experience Level

PROJECT MUST BE COMPLETED WITHIN 2 DAYS. Price can be increased. Require animated 12 crystal made up of different materials like diamon…

$1,000
Fixed Price

Expert
Experience Level

Need 4 different energy orbs designed and 3d animated for an NFT project. I already have an example of exactly what i need. The total…

$25
Fixed Price

Intermediate
Experience Level

Need someone to paint me a photo of anything that looks cool or abstract. I need something that looks cool that would go with an office…

$5,000
Fixed Price

Intermediate
Experience Level

Looking for a game developer to do a few mini-games (3-5) like flappy bird, maze runner and so on. Graphics are essential as well as ch…

Illustrators on Upwork
can earn $15–$45/hr.

Learn more below about how you can earn a career on the world's work marketplace.

[object Object] average prices bell curve

$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 analyze and determine the tools or services that would best fit their specific needs and situation.

Your next job starts right here

Set up a free profile to showcase your skills, experience, and desired pay rate to clients. You choose the payment method that's best for you to easily get paid for your work.

Find Work

Upwork Payment Protection
Gives you security and peace of mind

See how it works