What you'll get:
Really grateful James decided to compile his immense knowledge of the illustration business into this book packed with tips and tricks to make it in the field. I especially loved the little exercises scattered throughout the book, useful and fun too. Definitely will recommend this book to anyone wanting to be a professional illustrator as well as all my seasoned illustrator pals!
Melanie Johnsson
I've been in the industry for going on 18 years and have read all the books you can read on the subject and this is up there with some of the best. Full of practical advice that really reflects the real world of illustration. I loved how James covered much deeper aspects of the profession, such as mindset and mentality of working as an illustrator. You can tell that this person has real world experience and is providing valuable knowledge. I will recommend it to any newcomers looking for a realistic glimpse into the day-to-day life of an illustrator.
Jay
This is a bit of an old reference. But just like the Ronseal advert from years ago.” This does what it says on the tin”! This book is by far, the most practical real world guide out there! For a long time, I didn’t know where to start and how. Now I do, thanks to this book and James YouTube channel.
Justin Booth-Aspinall
I’ve read a fair few books similar to this, and none of them come even close to the level of detail, thoroughness or insight of this incredible book. I’ve read through half of it and referenced sections later in the book for contacting potential clients: Hughes is clearly an authority on the industry and his tone is both entertaining and reassuring. Plenty of brutal truths in this book and an equal amount of inspiring insight into the psychology of success. I wish I’d read this years ago! As an additional note, the hardcover copy is beautifully crafted and is well worth the extra few pounds. As with Martin Salisbury and other authorities on the subject of illustration, I will be buying anything and everything James Hughes publishes as after reading it, I feel significantly more informed and confident of my path into the industry.
T.S. Wolfe
The illustration industry is all smoke and mirrors to those not in the know. This book offers specific, actionable advice and how-to's that have been so valuable for me as a beginner/junior professional illustrator. I'm looking forward to seeing how treasured this book will become to those looking to kick-off their illustration career. I'll be recommending it to every new illustrator I come across. I listened to the audiobook version of this book (I always like an audiobook narrated by the actual author! and it was a great listen whilst I was working on my illustrations).
Con McHugh