This broad introduction to illustration reveals the artistic, intellectual and organizational skills needed to practice as a freelance illustrator, and helps the reader navigate the specialist areas of its application.

There is a practical introduction to image-making, covering ways of drawing, viewpoints and perspective, colour palettes and choice of media, along with an examination of how illustration communicates through metaphor, symbolism, wit, narrative, and more. Chapters devoted to editorial, publishing, corporate/advertising and the entertainment industry introduce the reader to the nature and function of different types of illustration, tracking the progress of real-life commissions and presenting a gallery of examples of contemporary work.

The book also addresses practical considerations when setting up a working environment, from the design of the workspace - lighting, computer equipment and basic tools - to time management and collaborative working.