How do you get paid as an illustrator?

[Janethuderski]

I have my first two jobs coming up illustrating children's books- one is a picture book that goes with a song, for very young children. The other is a story with full color illustrations for young readers. My clients would like me to give them a price quote. Since I make about $25.00 an hour teaching, I was thinking of charging that amount plus materials. How does that sound? Am I undercharging or overcharging?

I'd appreciate any help or advice!

[Janethuderski]

Just as an update!

I've done some research. I even paid 30 dollars to join Artists market online and though there's a lot of advice about avoiding being taken advantage of as a new illustrator, there's nothing about fee scales...just some vague mention of pay depending on the project... I sent away for the book "The designer's guide to marketing and pricing"...it's not about illustrators but I hope it can give me an idea....I was really hoping that I could get some advice here...Doesn't anyone work as an illustrator?

[mommabear123]

Hi Janet. I work as an illustrator along with being a portrait artist. I charge per illustration. I actually started low at $25 per picture since I wasn't really established as an ilustrator. This was for a series of 5 children's books. Since then I've upped my price per illustration since I had a few books under my belt. My advice is ask for what your time is worth. I hope this helps:)

[wvcoffeechick]

I am just starting out and I know how it is to be a new author, so I just finished my first illustration job at $10 a pic. I know it's not much, but it's something that I enjoy and I am not a professional although I get many compliments in my illustratins:) I just finished for a Publish America author, I advertised my book on their Facebook page and put, "will illustrate."