Illustrations are a visual representation of texts, concepts, processes, stories or our physical world. Many contemporary illustrators use a combination of hand-drawn and digital techniques to create visual displays.

Illustrations:

• show observational representations of subject matter, particularly where photographic imagery is difficult to obtain or does not clearly display the required detail
• help differentiate the features of what is being observed
• communicate shape, anatomy, details and concepts
• appeal to a general audience
• have been an integral part of publishing
• can be difficult to produce – you may need expert help; considerable time and knowledge are required to produce an illustration.

This section covers:

• Types of illustrations
• Main conventions for illustrations
• Working with an illustrator.