There’s a lot of planning and decision making that goes into the creation of an effective illustration, much of which isn’t seen in the final product. Here are some examples of how I work and some of what goes into the entire process. The process can vary slightly based on the specifics of the project, target audience, and amount of information that much be researched and included. I keep the client involved throughout the entire process in order to ensure there are no surprises.
Initial concept sketch with placeholders: I do research, review materials sent by the client, and come up with a layout that encompasses the information the client would like to highlight or focus on.
Not shown: Additional thumbnail sketches that I create with pencil and paper to run through ideas.
Revised concept sketch with preliminary text: I make revisions to the layout and treatment of different elements based on feedback from the client, refining of goals, and the inclusion of more concrete text.
Revised and streamlined concept with more finalized text: I make further revisions in order to improve the flow of information and make it more effective. In this case, some information was simplified and consolidated, and a figure was added for context. The treatment of information is also affected by how the illustration will be published or displayed.
Final Illustration: I have added color and refinement. While adding color, I have made decisions based on what needs to be highlighted or emphasized, who the target audience is, and what feelings I am hoping to evoke in the viewer. There are only minor changes between the full color artwork and the most recent sketch.
Sketch: I have met with the client, reviewed materials that they have sent, and created a sketch that communicates what their goals are for the illustration.
Final Illustration (With revisions): I have added color, refinement, and labels to the illustration.
Not shown: An additional sketch with the revision to the positioning of the hand and ablation probe.