Thursday, June 6, 2013

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!

4 comments:

  1. Good luck! Great to see your process here.

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  2. Thanks for sharing your process. You did great with this challenge! It looks really nice. As soon as you send it out, get started on something new. It helps with the waiting, with post-acceptance slump, or even with rejection. 'Love your color work!

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    Replies
    1. Thanks for the words of advice and encouragement. I don't think I have to worry too much about finding new projects. I have more than I can handle! Right now the problem is being able to focus my energy on one at a time!

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