An illustrator is an artist who specializes in creating images that visually communicate stories, ideas, or concepts. Many illustrators work with clients to create illustrations for books, magazines, websites, advertising, and othermedia.
Some illustrators create artwork for products such as t-shirts, posters, and coffee mugs. Others sell their original illustrations as fine art prints. And still others work as animators or graphic designers.
Most illustrators use traditional media such as pencils, paints, and paper. But some use digital tools to create their art. For example, they may use software like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator to composite multiple images or draw directly on a tablet computer.
No matter what tools they use, good illustrators have a strong foundation in the principles of design and composition. They also know how to use color effectively and understand the different ways that people perceive images.