If you are serious about having a giggle, then let’s work together.
I work with writers, authors, and creatives to develop illustrations that support your narrative, connect with your audience, and feel true to your voice.
WHAT I CAN DO FOR YOU
- Character Design and Development
- Fully Illustrated Books
- Illustration Packs for Social Media
- Guidance for Indie Authors
- Animated Gifs
Finding someone who is capable of bringing your story and characters to life, as well as keeping to budgets and deadlines can be a terrifying prospect for many Indie Authors. I hear you! I know that you have a huge project that you would neither like to waste time or money on, so this is why I offer consultancies to help you understand your steps to getting your story out there!
I illustrate stories for children from early ideas through to finished artwork ready for publishing.
This can also include preparation and uploading to publishing platforms if required.  My approach is collaborative, thoughtful, and grounded in listening first — so the visuals serve the story, not the other way around.
Because I have brought many characters and books to life, I know the process very well so I can reassure you that there is a lot of fun to be had in the serious business of making books!Â
Whether you’re:
- developing a picture book
- refining characters
- exploring visual direction
- or looking for illustrations to support publishing or promotion
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…I can help you move your project forward with clarity and confidence.
BOOK ME IN!
“When we started I had no idea what any of the characters looked like and now they seem like real people. I know all about them and what they would do in a particular situation.  Thanks for that!”
Carey Waite: Lance and The Boiled Egg
DISCOVERY CALL - 15 mins - FREE!
This is a great place to start!Â
I know that we are all used to messaging but a fast video chat is a great way to quickly understand that we’re human and not evil robot villains, and get your general questions answered, clearly and simply.
I use Google Meet which is safe and easy.
From here we plan your next steps. There is absolutely no obligation to commission me at all.
After our chat, I will send you a PDF “An Indie Authors Guide to Getting Your Book Illustrated.”Â
To book, use the form or send me an email!
CREATIVE CONSULTANCY 60 mins - £60
Ready to dive deeper?
In this consultancy we discuss your project and I will offer plenty of ideas and guidance, ( that’s why I charge)Â including:
- Talking through your vision and what you want to achieve.
- Your story – General chat about the feel, the look and the audience of your book.
- Your characters – talking style and personality
- A step-by-step demonstration of creating an illustrated book.
- How to prepare your manuscript for illustration – important things to think about
- How the process of building a book works and your involvement in it
- Contracts, copyright and legal speak
- Estimated costs
- Next steps – advice on what to do now
After the consultancy I will send you tailored notes, and a rough quote for the project.
* The £60 cost will be deducted off any future book commissions.Â
To book, use the form or send me an email!
BOOK HERE
OTHER AUTHORS HAVE SAID...
“Selecting Dotti Colvin to illustrate my first book was undoubtedly one of the wisest decisions I have ever made. She is a gifted artist who cares. Her ability to interpret and execute my vision was remarkable. This takes a special sensitivity and awareness which exceeded my expectations. Her professionalism and wealth of experience is a rare find.”
Suzanne Andrews: Author Nita’s Adventure Series
HAVEN'T FINISHED YOUR BOOK YET? No problem - Read on...
Maybe your book isn't finished yet.. here are 3 good reasons to talk to an illustrator BEFORE you finish it.
1. Planning ahead...
They say a picture can say a thousand words. Maybe I can save you a few! Before finishing your book it’s good idea to have a chat to an illustrator as maybe the illustrations won’t save you a thousand words but they can cut descriptive paragraphs in half.
2. Meet your protagonists!
If you aren’t ready to go into full production of a finished book, you could choose to ‘meet’ your main characters instead, especially your protagonist. This process of developing your characters can actually inspire you to write more, believe it or not, as your characters start to become REAL.
3. Crowdfunding.
By showing your characters, a cover mock-up, or a couple of finished pages on a crowdfunding platform such as Kickstarter, you could great a strong presentation to raise funds to get your book illustrated or pay for any of the other expenses involved! Plus it’s great marketing for when it’s finally ready to sell.
