Discussions

Hi everyone,

I’ve been exploring the world of self-publishing and one of the biggest challenges I’ve run into is illustration costs. Children’s books rely heavily on visuals, and while many talented artists are out there, not all fit within a new author’s budget. That’s why I started looking into affordable children's book illustrators who can deliver high-quality work without breaking the bank.

From what I’ve learned, the key is to:

• Check freelance platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Reedsy where illustrators offer packages tailored to indie authors.
• Review portfolios carefully to match the illustrator’s style with your book’s tone.
• Consider hiring student illustrators or emerging artists who are building their portfolios.
• Negotiate on a per-page or per-project basis rather than hourly rates.

I’d love to hear from others in this community:

• Have you worked with illustrators on a budget?
• Do you recommend specific platforms or individuals?
• What’s a reasonable price range for a 24–32 page children’s book?
• Sharing experiences could help a lot of new writers bring their stories to life without overspending.

Looking forward to your thoughts!