Stylized Author Character Illustration
Budget: ₹1,500 – ₹12,500 INR
I'm seeking a talented illustrator to create a distinctive, friendly author character illustration for a pen name for a financial literacy and leadership book series primarily targeting teenagers and young adults but all ages as well.
About the Project:
This character will serve as the visual identity for an author brand across books, websites, social media, and marketing materials across Western/international markets (US, Canada, Europe, and Asia).
The Creative Direction:
I will provide reference photos of a real person. However, I do not want a realistic portrait or direct likeness. Instead, please create a stylized, original character that:
• Is "inspired by" the reference photos rather than a literal depiction
• Captures the general essence: approximate age (50s), warm demeanor, approachable energy
• Is clearly an illustration/character, not a photo-realistic rendering
• Would not be immediately recognizable as the reference person in a side-by-side comparison
• Feels like a wise, friendly mentor—someone teens would trust and relate to
Think of it as creating a character for an animated film who happens to share some DNA with the reference photos.
Brand Personality to Convey:
• Warm and approachable (like a favorite uncle or teacher)
• Wise but not stuffy or corporate
• Encouraging and optimistic
• Trustworthy and credible
• Modern and relevant (not outdated or old-fashioned)
Style Preferences:
• Clean, modern illustration style
• Friendly caricature or stylized character (not overly exaggerated or cartoonish)
• Should appeal to a teenage audience while also looking professional to parents
• Works well at small sizes (social media avatars) and large sizes (book covers)
Consider adding a signature visual element that becomes part of the brand identity—perhaps a distinctive style of glasses, a friendly gesture, rolled-up sleeves, or similar. Open to your creative suggestions.
Deliverables Required:
Primary Illustration:
1. Vector files: AI, EPS, and SVG formats (fully editable, scalable)
2. High-resolution PNG: 300 DPI minimum, transparent background
3. JPEG versions: White background, multiple resolutions
4. Source/working files: Layered files (PSD, AI, or Procreate) for future edits
5. Black & white version: For book interior pages and low-cost printing
6. Size variations optimized for:
o Print (book cover, 300 DPI)
o Web (website author bio)
o Social media (profile picture, square format)
Bonus Deliverables (Quote Separately if Interested):
• 2-3 pose or expression variations:
o Welcoming/friendly (default, for author bios)
o Teaching/explaining (pointing gesture or thoughtful pose, for educational content)
o Celebrating/encouraging (thumbs up or similar, for social media)
• Half-body and head-only crops
• Simple icon version (very simplified for favicons, app icons)
________________________________________
Please Include in Your Proposal:
1. Portfolio samples - Especially character designs, author illustrations, editorial caricatures, or mascot work
2. Your interpretation - Brief thoughts on how you'd approach this project
3. Process & timeline - Steps involved and estimated delivery time
4. Revision policy - Number of revision rounds included
5. Pricing breakdown - Base deliverables and cost for bonus items
________________________________________
Additional Notes:
• This is the start of a potential ongoing relationship—future books, course materials, and merchandise may require additional illustrations
• Full commercial rights and ownership required
• Reference photos will be shared privately after initial discussion
• Open to artists from any location
I look forward to seeing your portfolio and hearing your creative ideas!
Tips for Posting:
1. Attach 2-3 style reference images of illustration styles you like (I can help you find these if needed)
2. Set the project as "Sealed" so freelancers can't see each other's bids—attracts more serious proposals
About the Project:
This character will serve as the visual identity for an author brand across books, websites, social media, and marketing materials across Western/international markets (US, Canada, Europe, and Asia).
The Creative Direction:
I will provide reference photos of a real person. However, I do not want a realistic portrait or direct likeness. Instead, please create a stylized, original character that:
• Is "inspired by" the reference photos rather than a literal depiction
• Captures the general essence: approximate age (50s), warm demeanor, approachable energy
• Is clearly an illustration/character, not a photo-realistic rendering
• Would not be immediately recognizable as the reference person in a side-by-side comparison
• Feels like a wise, friendly mentor—someone teens would trust and relate to
Think of it as creating a character for an animated film who happens to share some DNA with the reference photos.
Brand Personality to Convey:
• Warm and approachable (like a favorite uncle or teacher)
• Wise but not stuffy or corporate
• Encouraging and optimistic
• Trustworthy and credible
• Modern and relevant (not outdated or old-fashioned)
Style Preferences:
• Clean, modern illustration style
• Friendly caricature or stylized character (not overly exaggerated or cartoonish)
• Should appeal to a teenage audience while also looking professional to parents
• Works well at small sizes (social media avatars) and large sizes (book covers)
Consider adding a signature visual element that becomes part of the brand identity—perhaps a distinctive style of glasses, a friendly gesture, rolled-up sleeves, or similar. Open to your creative suggestions.
Deliverables Required:
Primary Illustration:
1. Vector files: AI, EPS, and SVG formats (fully editable, scalable)
2. High-resolution PNG: 300 DPI minimum, transparent background
3. JPEG versions: White background, multiple resolutions
4. Source/working files: Layered files (PSD, AI, or Procreate) for future edits
5. Black & white version: For book interior pages and low-cost printing
6. Size variations optimized for:
o Print (book cover, 300 DPI)
o Web (website author bio)
o Social media (profile picture, square format)
Bonus Deliverables (Quote Separately if Interested):
• 2-3 pose or expression variations:
o Welcoming/friendly (default, for author bios)
o Teaching/explaining (pointing gesture or thoughtful pose, for educational content)
o Celebrating/encouraging (thumbs up or similar, for social media)
• Half-body and head-only crops
• Simple icon version (very simplified for favicons, app icons)
________________________________________
Please Include in Your Proposal:
1. Portfolio samples - Especially character designs, author illustrations, editorial caricatures, or mascot work
2. Your interpretation - Brief thoughts on how you'd approach this project
3. Process & timeline - Steps involved and estimated delivery time
4. Revision policy - Number of revision rounds included
5. Pricing breakdown - Base deliverables and cost for bonus items
________________________________________
Additional Notes:
• This is the start of a potential ongoing relationship—future books, course materials, and merchandise may require additional illustrations
• Full commercial rights and ownership required
• Reference photos will be shared privately after initial discussion
• Open to artists from any location
I look forward to seeing your portfolio and hearing your creative ideas!
Tips for Posting:
1. Attach 2-3 style reference images of illustration styles you like (I can help you find these if needed)
2. Set the project as "Sealed" so freelancers can't see each other's bids—attracts more serious proposals