Picture book illustrations
Crafting Enchantment Through Art
Welcome to my picture book illustration portfolio, where I bring stories to life through a mix of watercolor and pencil. I work across both children’s fiction and nonfiction, carefully choosing style and medium to suit each story’s tone and audience, in collaboration with the author- adhering to their vision as well as whats best for the story and guiding them through the options where they arent sure what would be best.
For children’s books, I typically use watercolour in either a soft, pastel-toned style or a more detailed illustrative approach, depending on the age group and subject matter. One example is "My little Rainbow", a book exploring baby loss, where I used gentle pastel colours and simple, stylised animal characters to make the story accessible and comforting for young readers: engaging, but never overwhelming. And then in my upcoming book, an extended retelling of the little red hen, i use a more detailed style to accurately depict the animal characters and create an immersive set of illustrations.
My nonfiction illustrations are primarily created in pencil, with a focus on realism and accuracy while still being visually engaging for readers of all ages. Whether the subject is scientific, historical, or nature-based, I aim to strike a balance between clarity and creativity, making complex ideas approachable through thoughtful, detailed artwork.
Each illustration begins with the heart of the story, and my goal is always to create images that connect with readers, spark curiosity, and support the storytelling in a meaningful way.
Pricing- what to expect
My book illustration prices vary on style. My more simplistic artwork starts from £40 per page, my watercolour detailed style starts from £60 per page and my realistic artwork starts from £60 per page. All prices are subject to rise depedent on the scope of the project and you can contact me to discuss the project and get a fully accuarte quote. I also take bookings up to a year in advanvce so you can secure your slot while you save
Avaliability
I book projects in advance so you can secure a slot.
I am currently booking for Decemeber and onwards.
Children's book illustration
I’m a picture book illustrator with a deep love for storytelling, its something that’s been with me since childhood, when I first told everyone I was going to be an author. While I still plan to release books of my own, today I focus on bringing other people’s stories to life through illustration.
Working mostly in watercolour, my picture book style ranges from soft, pastel-toned simplicity to more detailed, textured work depending on the story’s tone and the target age group (typically ages 4–6). I’m especially drawn to stories about nature, animals (dogs have a special place in my heart), and themes that matter like grief and disability. I take inspiration from classic illustrators like Beatrix Potter, Mitsumasa Anno, and Inga Moore, aiming to create gentle, expressive art that helps young readers connect with big ideas in a beautiful, approachable way. I am always excited to discuss new projects and get lost in your stories.
Gentle simplistic style
With soft, pastel tones and gentle sloping shapes: this style is perfect for younger audiences or tender topics. I use stylised animal characters and minimal backgrounds to create a calming, accessible world that supports big feelings with a light touch. Ideal for stories that need a soft heart and tender touch or stories that intend to focus on emotion.
With richer textures, layered details, and expressive characters i bring these illustrations to life. They are perfect for slightly older children or stories with a more complex narrative. I love weaving in natural elements and emotional depth, creating pages that readers can explore again and again. These too, have a focus on emotion and storytelling but also have a more intricate style to be poured over and examined. often with small details to be spoted.
Rich detailed style
Non Fiction Illustration
My nonfiction illustration work is grounded in realism, detail, and a love of learning. I work primarily in pencil, blending traditional techniques with digital finishing to create accurate, engaging visuals for readers of all ages.
So far, I’ve illustrated nonfiction on topics like essential oils (with a strong focus on the plants they come from), and I’ve practiced drawing skeletal, architectural, and botanical subjects. I often collaborate closely with indie authors who bring expertise in their field, working together to ensure scientific and visual accuracy sometimes even researching using Latin names to source the most precise reference images. My goal is always to bring clarity and beauty to factual content, helping readers stay curious and inspired.
Commision Feedback
Every piece i create for a book is more than just art, it's a collaboration between the authors imagination and knowledge and my artistic expertise. I’m incredibly grateful for the kind words clients have shared after receiving their artwork.
Here’s what one lovely customer had to say:
"Without Amelia I wouldn't have a book. She caught the vision of what I wanted and her illustrations are stunning. I'm not the easiest client to work with and she's made allowances for my lack of experience as this is my first book. and I've had rave reviews when I share samples. She was very accommodating when I wanted some adjustments to her contract before we signed. I look forward to creating additional projects in the future with Amelia.”
— Vickie Smith
Like my work?
If you like my book illustration, get in touch!
tell me about your book!