Hello Creatives!
A bit of an honest talk and insights into the book publishing industry - so that you know what to expect in the future.
Getting publishing deals, getting paid for it, and then actually holding the book in your hands - it all takes a lot of time. Be prepared :) So what I am seeing (most of the time) is that it is really good to have some side income. There will be times when you really have to wait before the ball gets rolling.
My advice? Don’t quit your day job just yet. Make sure you have some projects or some form of work that can at least “pay the bills”. If you only rely on your illustration work and you are stressed about your income, this can take away a lot of joy from your creative work. For me personally, what saves me is my Skillshare income and creating online courses on the side.
Diversify! I think every freelancer should do that. Plus, it is actually so much fun to do multiple things at a time.
I would like to underline how my agency helps me here - they really have my back and they coach you and encourage you through the dry spells. Sometimes clients really like your portfolio but they just don’t have the right project for you. They will keep you on a waiting list though, so keep going and keep contacting them.
Stay strong :)
Hi! I’m Weronika Salach, a freelance illustrator specializing in children’s books, toy design and surface pattern design. Internationally I’m represented by Advocate Art. Over 35,000 happy students have taken my digital illustration courses and watched my YouTube videos. Let’s connect :)
👉 Website
👉 "The Art of Growth" blog-letter
👉 YouTube