My First Picture Book Dummy

I had no idea what I was getting myself into when I decided to get that cute little story (that took me no more than an hour to write) published as a picture book.  I have literally spent hundreds of hours researching, revising, and sketching.  It's been tough, but I now have a completed picture book dummy I can feel proud about submitting it to agents and editors.  I have come a long way since that first manuscript and learned so much!  Here is a little sneak peek into the process of picture book dummy making.

Step One: Story Board

The standard page count for picture books these days is 32 pages.  So in order to make sure my story flowed within the limits of 32 pages I created a story board with rough sketches for each page.  

Step two:  Time to Draw

Next I drew sketches for each page.  These sketches are more detailed than the storyboard scribbles, and give viewers an  idea of the layout and overall feel for the characters in each illustration.    

Step three: Page Layouts

Next I arranged the pictures and text for each page on Microsoft Word.  

Step four:  Showcase page spread

Finally I selected two pages to complete in finished form.  This will allow editors and agents know exactly what the illustrations will look like when each piece is completed.

Now for the hard part.  I have to send my baby into the real world to see how it does!  Wish me luck everyone!