Ginger Nielson ~ Children's Book Illustration

How much do you charge to illustrate a book?

This is normally the first question a self publishing author will ask me. I charge a fair market fee for my clients and I deliver quality paintings that bring the author's stories to life.

Sometimes it is necessary to adjust things. Although it will not affect any current clients or those to whom I have promised work, my rates for illustrating picture books and chapter books are based on the amount of research needed, the length of the book, and the amount of time needed to complete the project. Payments can be spread out to make it manageable for the client. A fair contract is negotiated in good faith. There is a difference in the rate for "work for hire" and a rate that allows me to keep my copyright for the images.

How many books have you illustrated?

Up until this date, the summer of 2011, I have illustrated over 25 books of which five are due to come out over the next year or so. Many of these are or will be available not only as traditional books, but as e-books as well. My first book as both author and illustrator has just been published. Gunther the Underwater Elephant is coming to an ocean near you .

Do you do your drawings on the computer?

Although I use my computer and sophisticated painting programs to complete my work, I find that sketching first in the traditional manner is a good way for me to begin. At the point when the sketches are quite defined I can make the decision to either paint them traditionally or transfer them to the computer for final painting. Sometimes I will mix the two ways of working if it seems that the illustration will benefit from the combination. Since I can work in both traditional and digital areas of my field I sometimes call my work "TRADIGITAL."

Do you have an agent? Do you work for a company?

I am a full time self employed children's book illustrator. I do not have an agent nor do I work for any one company. I am hired by Publishers, Art Directors, Designers, Editors and sometimes by individual authors who have planned to self publish their work.

Where do you live?

We live at the top of a hill near the edge of a very large forest. There is a magic wand on my desk, a dragon in my basement, and a tiny elephant in my studio. Everything else is nearly normal.

Do you have any children?

My husband and I have three multitalented married children and two beautiful and extremely interesting and creative grand children. When we all get together we have what you might call a kaleidoscope of joyous fun.

I want to write a children's book. Will you illustrate it for me?

I am sorry to say that I cannot agree to illustrate a book for an author unless I have seen the manuscript and know if it is something I can do my best work to interpret. I will provide a rate sheet and contract if we agree to work together. However, you are well advised to first submit your work to a traditional publisher. Once your work is acquired, the publisher or Art Director will choose the best illustrator for your story. If you want to suggest me as an illustrator, that is fine, but the Art Director or Editor will have the final word.

Did you study illustration in college?

I did not study illustration in college, but I did study fine art, painting, and elementary education. I got my degree in Education and Art Education. I spent a number of years teaching elementary students and a few more teaching only Art. Then for a change I worked as a travel agent and spent a number of years working with clients and traveling to some wonderful and unique places. During all that time I illustrated for small magazines, did window design, created art for all my classrooms and continued to paint and create children's stories. Once I left my day job and decided to concentrate on illustration for children as a full time career, I never looked back and have never been happier.

If you weren't an illustrator what would you like to be?

There are many choices I could have made, but for me.. I think I would like to be the owner of a perfect little bookstore designed for children and their parents. I would make sure there were plenty of cozy places to sit with a book, some kind of coffee or tea or lemonade bar and frequent visits by authors who would discuss and sign their books. I would also want to have groups of writers and illustrators use the bookstore in the evening for critique groups and networking. There would be something happening every weekend that would interest children, parents and grandparents and anyone else who loves children and books.

Do Illustrators make a lot of money?

Illustrators only make money on the book by book basis. Most often there is a fee paid and that is the end of the relationship. On some occasions there is a fee paid plus royalties, and in some cases only royalties are offered.

Are you very busy?

Most of the time I am busy either illustrating books or creating larger paintings. If I have a two week period in which I can actually take time out to just read and relax it is rare.

From April through November I volunteer at our local used book store which supports our library.

Each summer I participate in the Summer Theater Camp for children in our area. I paint sets and help with stage design.

During the school year I also teach Christain Education classes at our church in addition to giving a few talks to children and adults about the process of illustrating children's book.

Do you have a motto?

Yes, it was given to me by my dad. "Take A Chance!"