Hiring an artist for the first time can feel intimidating — not because the process is complicated, but because it’s unfamiliar. Here’s exactly what to expect when commissioning custom illustration or animation, from first message to final file.
1. Inquiry. It starts with a simple message describing what you need — a logo mascot, an explainer animation, a set of social illustrations, whatever it may be. At this stage, don’t worry about having every detail figured out; a rough idea is enough to start the conversation.
2. Brief and reference gathering. This is the most important step, even though it feels the least “creative.” A clear brief — brand colors, tone (playful vs. professional), intended use, and any reference images you like — saves enormous time later. The clearer the brief, the fewer revisions needed down the line.
3. Sketch and concept approval. Before any color or detail work begins, you’ll typically receive one or more rough sketches or concept frames to approve. This is the cheapest and fastest point to make major changes — composition, pose, or overall direction — so it’s worth reviewing carefully here rather than waiting until the piece is finished.
4. Revisions. Most commissions include a set number of revision rounds built into the price. Minor tweaks — color adjustments, small positioning changes — are normal and expected. Major direction changes after the sketch stage is approved usually cost extra, since they mean redoing completed work.
5. Final delivery. Once approved, you’ll receive final files in the agreed format — high-res PNG or vector files for illustration, MP4 or GIF for animation, often with source files available depending on the agreement.
Rough timeline: simple illustrations typically take a few days to a week; animation projects can range from one to several weeks depending on length and complexity.
What to prepare before reaching out: reference images, brand colors/fonts if applicable, the intended use (web, print, social, video), and a general sense of tone or mood.
