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Client FAQ: Everything You Need to Know Before Hiring a Medical Illustrator

chrejsa

Updated: Mar 18


Get answers to common questions about our medical illustration services, and discover what sets us apart in scientific and medical communication. Here is what you need to know before hiring a medical illustrator.


What is the process for creating a medical illustration?  

Most clients have an idea or style in mind, but you don’t need a fully developed plan to start a conversation. If you're unsure where to begin, we’ll guide you through your options during the consultation. If you’ve seen a style you like online, sharing references can help clarify your vision. However, we do not copy existing works; every illustration we create is original, ensuring protection for both you and us.


How long does it take to create a medical illustration?  

Quality takes time. While AI can generate images in seconds, those images are often inaccurate. A single medical illustration involves research, concept development, client feedback, and final rendering. The timeline varies based on the subject, complexity, and number of images. 


AI brainstorming with metabolic chart and thumbs down; human brainstorming with lab, rat, and heart sketch, thumbs up.
AI brainstorming is not helpful. You need an expert to help with ideation.

We typically work in phases:  

- Sketching: At least one business day per image for moderate complexity  

- Final rendering: At least one business day per image for moderate complexity  


For example, if you need 10 images, you should expect the process to take about 20 business days. Tight deadlines may incur a rush fee.



Illustration of a stressed woman with a visible brain, depicting the stress cycle. Includes brain diagram with labeled hormones.
Tight sketch vs final render. © Body Scientific International for Scientific American

What information do you need from me to start a project?  

Four key details are required:  

1. Who is your audience? General public? Science researchers? Patients with a disease?  

2. What do you need illustrated?  

3. Why are you commissioning the work? For education, marketing, or publication?  

4. How will it be used? In print, online, or in animation?



Illustration of digestive system anatomy, showing liver, stomach, pancreas, and intestines for a pancreas transplant surgery.
Tight sketch vs final render. © Body Scientific International for University of Illinois Chicago Transplant Surgery

How much does a medical illustration cost?  

Pricing can vary based on several factors, including style, complexity, timeline, licensing, and rights. More budget-friendly options include licensing existing images. Choosing a simpler style may also help reduce costs. Keep in mind that full copyright buyouts will increase the overall price.


Do you offer revisions?  

Yes, we provide revisions within reasonable limits. We deliver detailed sketches that closely match the final image, and one round of minor revisions is included. However, any changes that alter the scope or approved sketch will be billed hourly, and a complete redo will count as a new illustration.


What types of medical illustrations do you specialize in?  

We create illustrations for surgical atlases, research journals, pharmaceutical marketing, and high-profile publications. Our expertise includes:

- Medical and scientific illustration

- Biovisualization and data visualization

- Interactive design

- E-learning and animation

- Scientific storytelling


Do you create animations or interactive content?  

Yes, we specialize in 2D animation and e-learning design.


How do you ensure medical illustrations are accurate?  

Accuracy is achieved through experience and thorough research. We ask the right questions and utilize the best anatomical references. We can offer an expert review for an additional fee, as having more eyes on a project increases the likelihood of catching mistakes. Clients also play a crucial role in ensuring accuracy, as content experts often provide feedback before final delivery. Any factual errors on our part will be corrected at no cost.


What file formats will I receive?  

Standard formats include:

- Print: High-resolution EPS or PDF

- Web: Optimized JPG

- Editable text files: Available upon request according to project specifications


Who owns the final artwork?  

Ownership depends on the agreement made. Standard licensing allows for use with proper credit, while full ownership costs more but grants exclusive rights.


Can you meet tight deadlines?  

Yes, we can accommodate tight deadlines, but rush orders will incur an additional fee.

Can we discuss a project before making a commitment?  

Yes, we offer free initial consultations. However, a signed agreement is required before we provide detailed concepts or sketches. For larger projects, a deposit may be necessary.  


What is the difference between medical and scientific illustration?  

Medical illustration focuses on healthcare topics, anatomy, and surgical visuals, while scientific illustration encompasses a broader range of subjects, including biology, chemistry, and environmental sciences.  


Do you create custom illustrations for textbooks and publications?  

Yes, every illustration is custom-made. No two images are identical, even if we depict the same subject more than once.  

Diagram showing pulmonary ventilation and gas exchange. Lungs inhale/exhale, red blood cells transport O2/CO2, tissues involved.
Scrap art vs final art. © Hrejsa

How do I get started?  

You can book a consultation on our website or reach out via our contact page.





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