Information illustration
I create illustrations that turn complex data and ideas into engaging, informative visuals. Whether it’s for research, education or marketing campaigns, I help businesses and organisations communicate more effectively through information illustration.
As a freelance illustrator based in Leeds, UK I have extensive experience working with startups, charities, universities, and the public sector. I love getting my teeth in to a project and learning about a new topic, so I’m always happy to chat through new briefs!
I’m passionate about turning dense information into visually appealing and engaging content. Whether you need illustrations for reports, infographics, or detailed illustrations for guidebooks and magazines, I’ll work with you to ensure your message is clear, memorable, and engaging.
Previous highlights from information illustration projects
Trusted by leading organisations for information illustration
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire an illustrator?
I'd love to hear from you! To provide an accurate quote, I'll need the following details:
Creative brief - What would you like illustrations of, how many, and what size? e.g. spot illustrations / full page detailed poster.
Budget - What’s your rough budget? This helps me adjust my quote to fit your needs - e.g. limiting the license / simpler illustrations / fewer rounds of feedback.
Territory - Where will the illustrations be used? e.g. UK, USA, worldwide.
Duration - How long will it be used for?
Usage - What will the illustrations be used for? e.g. marketing materials, magazine, social media, merch.
Client - Who will be using it? e.g. small business, newspaper, multinational corporation.
References - What in my portfolio caught your eye?
Please keep in mind that certain factors such as short deadlines, additional rounds of feedback, more illustrations, wider usage or extra travel can increase the cost. However, I'm happy to work within your constraints.
What’s the process of working with an illustrator?
I work iteratively with you throughout the process to ensure we create exactly what you need. Here’s how it works:
Briefing & Fee Agreement - We’ll begin by discussing your vision and agreeing on the project fee.
Rough Sketches - I provide 3 options for you to choose from, and you can request changes.
Colour Roughs - I refine the sketches with colors, and you can provide feedback.
Final Artwork - After incorporating your feedback, I’ll provide the final illustrations.
Delivery - You’ll receive the final files in the agreed-upon formats.
What’s your day rate for illustration?
I work with a licensing model, and price my illustrations based on value, rather than time taken. This is standard in the illustration industry. The price is based on how the image will be used.
For example, a commercial illustration for a large corporation like Starbucks would have a different fee than one for a small local coffee shop. I tailor my pricing to match the scope and usage of each project, ensuring it’s fair for both of us. Therefore, I don’t have a day rate.
What is Illustration licensing?
When you commission me for custom illustration, you buy a license to use the artwork, rather than the copyright to the artwork itself.
When an artist creates something, they automatically own the copyright to that image, unless they sign a contract to give it away.
I then sell you a license - meaning you have the right to reproduce it, in certain ways, for an agreed amount of time.
You may buy an exclusive or non-exclusive license. Exclusive license means I retain copyright, but will not sell a license to anybody else during your license period. A non-exclusive license means I may sell the license somebody else to use the illustrations at any time.
Once we’ve agreed to work together, I’ll send you a contract which outlines all of this, for you to read and sign.
What happens at the end of my illustration license period?
Before the licence period ends I’ll quote a proportion of the original cost to extend the license, and you’ll be able to buy for a new period.
This works out cheaper for you - rather than buying a longer license that you may not need. It also protects me, as I quote based on your business size.
For example, the value of the illustrations changes if you expand your business to multiple countries!
What illustration file formats do you work with?
I primarily work with hand-drawn, raster files (e.g. PNG, JPG). I’m also happy to work with vector files (e.g. SVG), but need to know at the start of a project.
If the illustrations will be used digitally I’ll provide RGB files. If the illustrations will be printed, you’ll receive final files in print-ready, high resolution CMYK format.
Request a quote for information illustration
Vicky Hughes - freelance illustrator uk
Ready to get started on your next information illustration project? Fill out the form below to request a quote!
Stock images and stick figures can take you so far - but you've reached a point where you need bespoke artwork! Luckily, illustrators are a lovely bunch. And, it's pretty fun to research and hire one.