An illustrator without a portfolio is invisible, and even a great portfolio needs a CV that pulls weight. Studios want to see how many illustrations you have published, which mediums you work in and which clients you have shipped for. This template helps you put that on paper without leaning on 'passionate about visual storytelling'.
Copy these as starting points and swap in your own numbers.
2024–2025 estimates. Wide ranges by experience and seniority.
Not at the start, you will get lost in their roster. Once your style is dialled and you have 30+ published pieces, an agent unlocks premium brands and licensing deals.
Frame personal work as case studies: audience, where it lived, metrics like followers, print sales or licenses. Personal work is what proves style and discipline.
Editorial work runs against tight deadlines for a single article at lower fees. Commercial work runs longer with brands at higher fees. Strong illustrators keep both running.
Not strictly, but Blender and ZBrush have shifted rates upward in the past 2 years. Hybrid 2D plus 3D is in demand right now, especially in editorial and tech.
Use a use-based model: editorial cheaper, commercial higher, exclusive 3 to 5x non-exclusive. Always specify territory, duration and medium, since these can swing price by 2 to 10x.