Illustrator vs. Cartoonist: What Are the Differences?

Both illustrators and cartoonists use their artistic skills to create images that communicate a message. The main difference between these two professions is the type of work they typically produce. If you’re interested in a career in art, read on to learn more about illustrators and cartoonists and what sets them apart.

What is an Illustrator?

An Illustrator is a professional artist who creates images to accompany written work, such as books, magazines, newspapers, and online articles. They use a variety of mediums, including pencil, pen and ink, watercolor, and computer software, to create illustrations that are both aesthetically pleasing and support the written content. Illustrators often work with authors and editors to determine the best way to visually represent the concepts in the text. In addition to creating original artwork, Illustrators may also modify or adapt existing images to fit the needs of the project.

What is a Cartoonist?

Cartoonists are artists who create cartoons, which are typically funny illustrations that contain a humorous message or comment on current events. To create their cartoons, Cartoonists use a variety of methods, including drawing by hand, using computer software or a combination of both. Once they create their cartoons, Cartoonists submit them to newspapers, magazines, websites or other publications for possible publication. Some Cartoonists also create their own books or comics. In addition to creating their cartoons, Cartoonists often promote their work through social media and other marketing channels.

Illustrator vs. Cartoonist

Here are the main differences between an illustrator and a cartoonist.

Job Duties

One of the biggest differences between an illustrator and a cartoonist is the type of work they do. An illustrator creates original artwork for books, magazines, advertisements and other media. They may create characters or concepts for a piece of media, then create artwork to accompany it. A cartoonist creates comics, which are sequences of images with accompanying text. They may also illustrate children’s books or create artwork for advertisements.

A key duty of both professions is creating original artwork. However, a cartoonist often has more creative freedom in their work because they’re not working within the constraints of another medium like illustration typically is. For example, a cartoonist can decide what story they want to tell through images and text, while an illustrator usually works on art direction—meaning they create art that accompanies preexisting media.

Job Requirements

There are no formal education requirements for illustrators or cartoonists, but most professionals in these fields have at least a bachelor’s degree. Many colleges and universities offer programs in fine arts, graphic design or illustration that can help aspiring artists develop their skills. Some illustrators and cartoonists also pursue master’s degrees to gain more knowledge about the field and improve their chances of landing a job.

In addition to their educational background, illustrators and cartoonists need to be able to show potential employers a portfolio of their work. This portfolio can include sketches, paintings, digital illustrations or other examples of an artist’s style. Employers use portfolios to determine whether an artist is a good fit for a particular project.

Work Environment

Illustrators and cartoonists both work in a variety of environments, depending on the project they’re working on. For example, an illustrator might work from home or in a studio to create illustrations for books, magazines or other publications. They may also travel to different locations to meet with clients and collaborate on projects.

Cartoonists often work in studios or offices where they can focus on creating their cartoons. However, some cartoonists freelance and work from home so that they can set their own schedules. Freelance cartoonists may also travel to conventions or events to promote their work.

Skills

Both illustrators and cartoonists use their artistic skills to create images that communicate a message. However, they often have different goals in mind when they are creating their art. Illustrators typically want to create realistic images that accurately depict the subject matter they are working on, whether it is a person, an object or a scene. Cartoonists, on the other hand, may be more interested in creating images that are exaggerated or humorous.

Both illustrators and cartoonists need to have drawing skills. However, illustrators may benefit from also having painting skills, as they may be asked to create illustrations using a variety of mediums, including watercolors, acrylics and oils. Cartoonists may find it helpful to understand animation principles, as they can use these concepts to bring their characters to life. Additionally, both professionals may use computer software to create or enhance their work.

Salary

The average salary for an illustrator is $56,221 per year, while the average salary for a cartoonist is $49,545 per year. Both of these salaries can vary depending on the type of work you do, your experience level and the location of your job.