WIP FAQs | Rachael Dean’s Shop

How did you become a children’s book illustrator?

After developing my online portfolio and growing my social media presence for a year after Uni, I was incredibly fortunate to be headhunted by my agent, Charlie Bowden, at Pickled Ink Agency. They found my work through my socials, so I'd highly recommend posting your work online and creating a brand for yourself as it can go a long way!

What inspires your illustrations for children’s books?

Research! I buy books and collect imagery that inspires me in terms of colour palettes, content, and compositions. I also love to sit in coffee shops and observe people, and to get out into nature as much as I possibly can too. I'm lucky to live on the North West coast of England, so I'm never stuck for inspiring nature scenes.

What is your process for creating illustrations for a book?

Whilst reading the manuscript I'll highlight and note down character descriptions and scenes throughout. As soon as I've finished the story, I'll start sketching the main character designs straight away whilst it's fresh in my mind. Sometimes I'll create a mood board full of inspiring images that will prompt ideas for the cover, and I may start by sketching a number of thumbnails for the art department to choose from. Once they've made a decision, I'll produce a more polished sketch for them and liaise back and forth, making any amendments necessary until the art team and author are happy. The next stage usually consists of a colour rough for the cover, followed by a final coloured artwork stage.

How do you decide on the style and colour palette for a book?

I'll often play around with different colour combinations as trial and error, and although it can be hard, I'll do my best to come up with new combinations I've never used before. It's all about getting the balance between creating original colour concepts and sticking to the style of your brand, so it's recognisable enough as your work. I also find that websites such as coolers.com are wonderful to use for inspiration.

What tools and materials do you use for your illustrations?

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Do you collaborate closely with the author during the illustration process?

How long does it typically take to illustrate a children’s book?

What challenges do you face when illustrating for children’s books?

Can you describe your favourite project or character you’ve illustrated?

How do you ensure your illustrations are engaging and appealing to children?

What advice would you give to aspiring children’s book illustrators?

Do you have a preferred age group or type of story you enjoy illustrating the most?

How do you approach illustrating emotional or complex scenes for young readers?

What role do illustrations play in the overall storytelling of a children’s book?

How do you stay inspired and keep your work fresh in the world of children’s literature?