It is well worth it to take extra time at the start of a project to find the right illustrator for your job. Each artist brings his/her own unique style, ideas, and approach to a project. By finding one whose style you like and who shows an understanding of the direction of your piece, you'll ensure that the process of producing the illustration goes smoothly. Finding an illustrator can be accomplished in many ways. If you're working with an art director, ask for his/her recommendations; look through the artist directories; contact artists' reps; or consult the ADCMW's professional services directory. After choosing a few, talk to the illustrators and ask to see samples, especially of similar projects on which they may have worked.

Once you've decided on an illustrator, let him/her be part of the creative process. Leave yourself open to his/her ideas and suggestions. Too much direction from you is often worse than no direction at all.

Certain styles and techniques of illustration take longer to produce, and this may affect the price and schedule. You should discuss this with the artist at the outset of the project.

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