Art by Kim Rosenlof
Critiques, anatomy, self-publishing, oh my! In this episode, Jake Parker, Lee White, and Will Terry dig into wide-ranging topics, with questions courtesy of our Patrons.
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SHOW LINKS
Portfolio Power Critiques
Webtoon
Lorenzo Etherington Kickstarter
Developing Great Visual Stories class
Proko: Why Learn Anatomy If You Draw from Reference?
SCBWI
ArtStation
KEY TAKEAWAYS
When it comes to anatomy, you only need to know as much as improves your style and efficiency.
Problem-solve and make decisions with small, loose studies to save time on your final illustration.
If you love something, chances are others would, too. All you have to do is find those people and market your projects to them directly.
QUESTIONS
Tina asks, “I’m torn between oil painting and sequential work. I feel that trying to do both, I might do neither well. Thoughts?”
Pick one as your main gig and reserve the other for fun, at least until you’re more proficient in both.
Jason asks, “How can I finish my illustrations faster?”
Prepare better! Spend more time creating loose sketches and lighting and color studies before moving on to your final piece. This allows you to make changes and solve problems quickly. When you make all your decisions and corrections ahead of time, creating the end painting becomes easy, fast, and fun!
Brian asks, “Plans for SVSLearn?”
We’re looking forward to offering Self-Publishing Pro to help ambitious authors and illustrators bring their ideas to life, sans approval from gatekeepers!
Brian asks, “What do you think of Webtoon? I’m new to comics and considering creating one for the site to build experience.”
Webtoon is a busy place, and it’s unlikely you’ll get much attention as a newbie. That said, if posting comics there keeps you motivated and consistent, it’s worth it!
Andrew asks, “Why did you guys decide to make this podcast?”
Many online illustration communities shy away from the nitty-gritty details of this business. We wanted to fill the gap in the conversation. We’re not afraid to talk numbers, pros and cons of the industry, and practical advice. Additionally, the podcast helps people find SVSLearn and continue their art education!
Julia asks, “As a kidlit illustrator, how can I build a relationship with a local bookstore early in my career?”
Become a patron of the store
Speak with the author/illustrator-facing manager and ask how to develop a relationship that benefits their store
Offer to give storytime readings
Jason asks, “I want to self-publish children’s books aimed at six- to eight-year-olds containing humor and a hint of darkness which both kids and parents can appreciate. Is this a non-starter?”
If you’d buy books like this, you can bet others would, too. You just have to find those people and market your books to them directly.
Sarah asks, “Creating narrative compositions is less interesting to me than drawing something decorative. How can I overcome this?”
Narrative work is hard; if you choose to pursue it, get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Keep making decorative work if you enjoy it, and consider that might be a better path for you altogether if you can’t stand narrative work.
Jeremy asks, “In the beginning, should I focus more on building my audience to self-publish or networking for freelancing jobs?”
Focus on freelancing first; it’s easier to land a gig than fund a Kickstarter. At the start of your career, you can also learn a ton working in-house while building a killer portfolio, working on personal projects, and growing your audience for whatever you do next. (ArtStation and LinkedIn are great job resources!)
Claudi asks, “I want to be an illustrator, but not for children’s books. Can I still sign up for an SVSLearn portfolio review?”
Anyone can sign up for a Portfolio Power Critique! Feedback on your work is essential, whether you get it from us or another reliable source. Find a pro who will review your work in-depth, consider your goals, and teach you how to get there from where you are.
Charlotte asks, “Any advice for making connections with industry pros at SCBWI conferences?”
If you’re an author, polish up your elevator pitch. If you're an illustrator, have great work to show! Either way, buy the time of the pros you meet to review your manuscripts or portfolios. You’re fostering long-term relationships, so be measured and tactful rather than hounding people for all they’re worth.
“Is learning anatomy important?”
It depends on your style and subject matter! If you rely heavily on reference photos, understanding anatomy will speed up your process. If your style is vaguer, you won’t need as much information. Evaluate your style and subject matter to decide if having that knowledge at your disposal would improve your work.
LINKS
Jake Parker: mrjakeparker.com. Instagram: @jakeparker, Youtube: JakeParker44
Will Terry: willterry.com. Instagram: @willterryart, Youtube: WillTerryArt
Lee White: leewhiteillustration.com. Instagram: @leewhiteillo
Daniel Tu: danieltu.co.
Lily Camille Howell: lilycamille.com
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