About me

• Freelance Illustrator at Bethany Evelyn Art
• Studied: BA (Hons) Illustration with Animation, 2018

About my career

After graduating, I decided to dive head first into the freelancing role and started my own business ‘Bethany Evelyn Art’, mainly illustrating children’s picture books. It is my dream job.

The main aspect of my job is illustrating children’s picture books. Alongside these bigger freelance jobs, which take around three to six months to complete, I illustrate one-off commissions and build up my client base. For these commissions, I manage the financial and legal aspects – typing up contracts, non-disclosure agreements, invoices, and filing tax returns. Along with this, I must also discuss the client’s needs, budgets, timeframes for completion and make sure that we are on the same page. I also aim to provide amazing customer service to gain returning clients - being professional and friendly is key.

I must also advertise and market my business, skill and service by creating and updating my online portfolio and website, and sharing this across platforms including LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter. I keep up to date with online competitions, trends and important calendar dates to respond to – for example, World Book Day. I collect reviews from previous and recurring clients to share with possible future clients.

At Manchester Met, I gained excellent social skills from mixing with a wide range of personalities, which helps me discuss and connect with my clients and give them a more fun and friendly experience when creating their book. I also gained a lot from listening to guest speakers in the same business, such as ‘Rob Biddulph’, who shared their tips on how to succeed and build your portfolio for children’s book illustration.

My top tip for students is

Be confident and believe in yourself. You may find yourself lost once you graduate and doubting yourself more than you thought you would, but stick to your gut, you did that degree for a reason, and your graduation shows what you are capable of. Don’t be afraid to take risks.

I’m inspired by

Everyone I graduated with who are succeeding incredibly in their career or following a new path which they look so happy on. I look forward to seeing where everyone is in ten years’ time.

What I loved about Manchester Met

I appreciate the people who I met who are still supporting me, pushing me and believing in me.

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