Things to know

The FAQ list below is helpful if you are considering a request for medical or scientific illustration.

• Where do I start?
  You should have a rough estimate of the number and complexity of the illustration(s) you need. You should also have an general idea of your timeline (how urgent is it?) and your budget (basic fee schedules are shown here - but understand that these are meant as general guidelines only). 

• How do I contact The Studio?
  Once you have gathered your thoughts and your expectations, you can contact The Studio by completing this form. The information you provide will help us assign a lead illustrator on your project, who will then communicate with you for further details. Assignments may be based on particular interests or expertise, scheduling, and other parameters – but may be changed based on the preferences of the client,

• How much will it cost?
  The basic fee categories outlined on this site are ballpark figures. After an initial meeting with the illustrator(s), an estimated cost will be established (and various options may be offered, based on the client's budget).

• What style of illustration do I want?
  As you can see from the examples, there are many different styles, and our illustrators have a wide range of skills that can be adapted to your needs and wishes. During the initial discussion, style options will be discussed.

• What if I change my mind?
  The initial discussion with the illustrator(s) is a consultation only. From there, we will draw up estimates (cost, delivery time, number and style of illustrations). If you change your mind at that point, we will part amicably. If you agree with the estimates, you will be asked to sign a Client Agreement form. This form will also include details about copyrights (see below). Once the Client Agreement is signed and the illustrator has started to work on the project,  a fee will be due even if you decide to cancel the project (the amount of the "cancellation fee" will be clearly indicated in the agreement).

• Who owns the copyright?
  The illustrator retains all rights associated with the illustration(s), as this is not considered "work for hire." This means that you cannot adapt the work, sublicense any portion of it or use it for purposes other than what is described in the Client Agreement, without first obtaining written approval from the illustrator. 

• The illustrations are for a scientific article – does the publisher get the copyrights?
  Many scientific journals require the author(s) to transfer all manuscript copyrights  (including the figures) to the publisher. Often, the publisher will also request a letter certifying the provenance (and originality) of the illustration(s). If so, we will work with you and the publisher, and provide them with that documentation. The figure(s), as part of the manuscript, fall under the publisher's copyright agreement. However, the illustrator retains the rights to the illustrations themselves.

• Why does the illustrator keep the rights to the illustration(s)?
  The Client Agreement clearly specifies how the illustration will be used by the client (most often, it will be a one-time use for a publication or other work). Artists are fairly compensated for their work and must be able to protect themselves from copies, dissemination and plagiarism out of their control. In addition, the ability for the illustrator to reuse all or part of an illustration is critical for the viability of The Studio and its artists. Not having to recreate every subsequent illustration from scratch also helps drive the cost and production time down for future clients.