My last post I was just writing about some of the differences of self publishing and traditional publishing. There are a lot of examples of what happens between writers and their illustrators. Finding an illustrator was difficult in the beginning. I believe it would be much easier now because almost all illustrators have a web site. I joined children's writers and illustrators. I believe their offices are in Los Angeles. I haven't continued with my membership but it was very helpful. The book had names address's and phone numbers of illustrators. The problem was no pictures. I interviewed several and of course they could all draw Santa. When I received their work, the artwork didn't look like what I had in mind. Finally someone gave me three names of illustrators that he had used. They all had websites. They were all very good. Steve Ferchaud loves drawing gnomes. They looked like elves to me. I was ecstatic ! I was warned by several people to meet him, because you will be working so close, if you have any issues, you should try someone else. Our first meeting was great, an instant friendship was born. Now with internet searches I believe you would have more choices. Did I mention, this took 21/2 years to find Steve. There were a lot of decisions to be made. I.E What type of paper would this be printed on? Several children's illustrators draw in pastels. I was writing Christmas books. We needed to use primary colors. Steve is a watercolor artist, so he layers his colors until he comes to what he thinks is the perfect shade. It's interesting for both of us to see the difference of my first book, to the fourth one. I can tell he is really into the characters. Wait until you see the new one.
If you have been signed by a tradional publisher, your only worry is if they will like your writing. For some authors that is the perfect setup. The world is going though a major change because of technology. In the past the worst thing about self publishing is that it doesn't look professional. Sometimes I do think some books were made at the kitchen table. Today it's a completely different story. The amount of info on the computer, your self published books look every bit as good, sometimes even better, since you have control over colors etc. It really comes down to one thing. If you don't mind the extra work and you can talk to people, being a self publisher isn't that hard. I'm thinking of writing a how to book especially for Children's authors. Why should both of us make the same mistakes. I'm sure I could save you some time. It's really very helpful to know the ins and outs of the publishing business, so that when a publishers or distributor comes knocking at your door, you'll know what to look for in contract. Some are deceiving. Please don't ever give your work away for years at a time.
Please comment on this blog especially if you think more info would be important to you.
Happy writing
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