Why do I need a scientific illustrator?

Scientific illustrators bridge the gap between text and the reader, communicating what cannot be expressed with words.

Scientific illustration makes it possible to depict an ideal representative of all individuals of a species, showing all the details and characteristics that define it. Many species are very similar to others, and the only way to represent them accurately is through meticulous study of their bibliography and references. Scientific illustration can also graph processes, cycles, or concepts.

What is scientific illustration?

“Scientific illustration is a scientific-artistic discipline whose purpose is to transmit knowledge, offering a visual and precise approach to a scientific concept by synthesizing and simplifying information, always in the service of knowledge transmission, communicating concepts in a pleasant and engaging way.”

*Manual of Scientific Illustration. 2022. Illustraciencia. Editorial Planeta. 395 pp.

How does scientific illustration differ from naturalistic illustration?

Naturalistic illustration is a discipline whose goal is to represent a species within its environment or context, through the author’s subjective vision, paying special attention to harmony in composition, color, and lighting, allowing certain artistic liberties.

Scientific and naturalistic illustration are considered closely related disciplines since both deal with nature-related subjects, but their goals are different. The former faithfully represents what is shown, while the latter allows more artistic freedom and is not intended to be exact.

Why is the analog technique (watercolor–pencil) more expensive than the digital one (Photoshop–Procreate)?

Analog techniques are more expensive because they involve the use of materials (paper, paint, brushes, etc.) and require more time to complete, as the drawing must be transferred to paper, painted, digitized, edited, and cleaned from its original background. In addition, these techniques require more working hours since, for example, watercolor is achieved through the superimposition of multiple paint layers.

Digital painting, although it works in a similar way, requires no materials other than the equipment used, and the illustration is ready for immediate use, as it does not need to be digitized or have its background cleaned.

What am I paying for when I pay for an illustration?

You are paying for the right to use the illustration under the terms agreed upon by the client and the illustrator. The price will depend on factors such as the regional territory where it will be used, the type of material it will be used for, exclusivity of the artwork, etc. Using an illustration for purposes not agreed upon is illegal.

What is the work process like?

Illustrations

In the case of illustration, the process starts with the scientific name of the species. Bibliography that describes it and many image references are sought; ideally, fieldwork is carried out, collecting the species in the case of botanical illustration or observing it in the case of animals.

Once the position is defined (there is usually a recommended position depending on the class to be represented), a linear sketch is made, which the client must review and approve. Then, the color palette for the species is selected and the illustration is painted.

Infographics

In the case of infographics, a meeting is held to discuss the objective of the infographic, dimensions, orientation, style, color palette, etc. Then the client provides the text to be included, from which a draft of the infographic is created with a script based on the original text, accompanied by recommendations of the graphic resources that would best support its explanation. Then work begins on the final infographic.

The better the communication between both parties, the better the final result will be, as we will be able to more closely match the vision that is intended to be developed.

What is the difference between an illustration and an infographic?

An illustration is the drawing that represents what you want to show, while an infographic is a set of graphic resources (illustrations, diagrams, charts, etc.) and text that explain something.

So, if you only need the representation of a species, you should commission a scientific/naturalistic illustration, whereas if you want to explain something, you need an infographic.

Why is there an extra charge for corrections once the illustration is painted?

The work process includes an initial delivery and correction of the line drawing, where changes in size, proportion, orientation, and position, among others, can be corrected. Once the illustration is finished, it is very difficult to change these aspects, because even in digital form, each part involves many layers of work to build it.

Why is pricing different for one species compared to several, or for adding a background?

This is due to the amount or volume of work that each part of an illustration requires. Logically, one species requires bibliographic research and graphic references; the same applies if you want more than one (the work multiplies). A similar situation occurs with backgrounds, which require many layers to achieve realism, and the included plant species must match the environment of the animal species being represented.

Why is it better to request an illustration or infographic in advance?

Anticipating the need for these services allows for better communication and workflow, making it possible to develop the idea or concept in a more comprehensive way and achieve a better final result. It is also more economical, as no overtime work is required to meet tight deadlines.

Do you work internationally?

Yes, I have done international commissions, and it is very enriching to work with people and topics from other countries.

What should I do if I don’t know what type of illustration I want or how I want it?

First, answer the following questions:

What use do you want to give it? Is it for a book, a guide, a poster, etc.

What size do you need? A1 (59.4 × 84.1 cm), A2 (42 × 59.4 cm), A3 (32.9 × 48.3 cm), A4 (21 × 29.7 cm), or a specific custom size.

What is your budget? This can help define the technique to be used.

When do you need it? This can also help define the technique to be used.

How many illustrations do you need? One species? More than one? Do you need a background? Do you need an infographic?

With all this defined, write to me and we can discuss your needs and find a solution.

You are invited to learn more about my illustrations on Instagram, Facebook, and Behance