How Much Do Book Illustrators Charge? A Guide for Authors

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If you’re an author working on a children’s book or any illustrated book, one of your biggest questions is probably: How much do book illustrators charge? The answer is — it depends. Illustration pricing can vary widely based on style, complexity, rights, and the illustrator’s experience.

Here’s a clear look at what influences costs, typical price ranges, and how to plan your budget. I also give out ballpark rates for my illustrations.

What factors affect illustration costs?

1. Complexity of the artwork: Simple spot illustrations (small, minimal detail) are much cheaper than elaborate full-page or double-page spreads. A book with detailed scenes, multiple characters, and rich backgrounds costs more because it takes more time to create.

2. Number of illustrations: Is it a 32-page picture book with art on every page? Or a chapter book with just a few black-and-white drawings? The quantity will greatly impact the total cost.

3. Color vs. black & white: Full-color illustrations are more expensive than grayscale or line art. Coloring adds many hours of work.

4. Rights & usage: Are you hiring for a one-time print run, or will the art also be used for merchandise, ebooks, or animations? More extensive rights mean higher fees.

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How much do book illustrators charge: My Typical price ranges

To give you a ballpark idea of my rate (figures in USD):

• Spot illustrations: $50 – $75 each

• Full-page illustrations: $150 – $300 each

• Double-page spreads: $200 – $400 each

• Cover art: $250 – $500

For a standard 32-page picture book with 15–20 full-page illustrations, authors may between spend $2,500 to $5,000

Of course, some freelancers on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork may quote much lower rates. But remember: with illustration, you generally get what you pay for. Quality art makes your book shine and can be the deciding factor for whether readers (and buyers) pick it up.

Payment structure

• An upfront deposit (usually 30-50%) to start work.

• The rest paid in milestones (like after sketches, then final files) or on completion.

This protects both parties and keeps the project moving forward.

Example of a simple background illustration

How to budget smartly

1. Get clear on your needs. Do you really need art on every page, or can you mix full pages with smaller spots to save costs?

2. Be upfront. Share your budget range when you reach out. Many illustrators will tell you what they can offer within it.

3. Think long-term. Good art sells books. Skimping too much on illustration may cost you more in missed sales later.

In short

Illustration isn’t cheap, but it’s a vital investment — especially for children’s books. By understanding what drives costs, you can budget wisely and hire an illustrator whose work does your story justice. The result? A beautiful book that readers will treasure for years.