Student work by Ahmed Albastaki
A digital illustrator creates narrative artworks (images that tell a story) using graphics software.
The work of a digital illustrator can include artwork and high-end special effects for film, elements for video games, advertisements, graphic design, book cover art, etc.
Digital illustrators create original images for either commissioned work or personal projects.
As the term implies, they work using computer software on PCs or graphics tablets. Each artist has their own unique process and each project requires different techniques.
Initial sketches for a piece may start as hand drawings but the finished product is delivered digitally for digital media such as film and television effects, publishing, web design, advertisements, educational resources, video games, etc.
The digital illustrator is briefed on the project and they produce artwork that best communicates the idea, character, visuals, scenario, sequence, icon, etc. The creative process is one that works on developing these illustrations, refining and reworking drafts until the final artwork is signed off.
Most illustrators work as freelancers but some advertising agencies, publishing houses and large companies will have in-house illustrator roles.
The responsibilities of a digital illustrator are:
The digital illustration process is similar to other forms of illustrations, with initial rough sketches drawn using a graphics tablet and then refined using bitmap (Adobe Photoshop) and/or vector (Adobe Illustrator) applications.
The main difference between the two types is that bitmap, or painting, software creates photorealistic images and allows for special effects; while vector, or drawing, tools create images through anchor points to construct shapes and clean lines. A finished digital image may contain embedded layers of both types of graphics.
Digital illustrators use digital tools to create their work. This includes graphics software and hardware such as PCs and graphics tablets. They may scan hand drawn sketches, import images from the natural world and use photographs to create digital art.
Software used by digital illustrators can include:
Digital illustrators must be equally adept at thinking creatively and remaining tech-savvy.
They are required to respond to constructive criticism and deliver what the client wants on time, within budget and in the correct format.
Their digital skills will constantly be put to the test as each project will require different formats, and digital tools are ever-changing and upgrading.
Employers may look for the following skills in a digital illustrator:
Most digital illustrators will work as freelancers so calculating an hourly rate can be done by working out a formula based on a full-time wage.
The average wage of a digital illustrator runs between USD $32,000 for a junior position to upwards of USD $77,000 for a senior position. (Source: Glassdoor)
To learn more about this field, visit: What is Digital Illustration? or What is Concept Art?