How to know what to draw - 5 ways live illustrators decide
Today I’d like to demystify one of the most important skills of a live illustrator… knowing what to draw! Whether it’s a conference, talk or workshop, there are a few key signals how to know what to draw and which tip me off that something’s worth capturing.
1. Client guidance
My clients will usually have a vision for the event, and know a few key themes that will be covered. I’ll prepare some sketches and a layout in advance, to make sure these bits will be included in the finished image.
2. Metaphors and stories
As a live illustrator, I quickly learned that people love speaking in metaphors and stories. It makes sense - it helps you relate to what they’re talking about! These give me great ideas for visuals to capture.
For example, someone might say “We’re at a real crossroads” - which gives me lots of ideas around maps, roads and signs, that I can combine with what they’re talking about.
3. Repeated ideas
If something’s important, somebody will often repeat it throughout their talk. It could even be repeated in multiple sessions across an event. These are the really important things to capture - recurring themes!
4. Audience reactions
Observing the crowd’s reactions - like nods, applause, or an approving “mmm” - gives a clear sign that something is important, and people will want to remember it. So, it’s probably going to appear on the live illustration!
5. Visual bank
As an experienced illustrator, I have a “visual bank” of images in my head, and ones that my hand can draw quite happily. These can be combined with quotes or other event-specific stuff to create a live illustration. Sometimes, for a niche event or a new subject, it’s useful to research and sketch lots of new things, to build up that visual bank for an event.
How to know what to draw
There you have it: 5 ways that live illustrators know what to draw. Live illustration can make your event extra engaging and memorable - are you interested? Get in touch!
