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How to Apply to Illustration Agents: Everything You Need to Know
Illustration, Design Tips, Small Business, Freelancing Shira Bentley Illustration, Design Tips, Small Business, Freelancing Shira Bentley

How to Apply to Illustration Agents: Everything You Need to Know

Navigating the world of illustration can be both exciting and challenging, especially when it comes to expanding your opportunities and finding the right clients. This is where an illustration agent can become an invaluable ally. But how do you apply to an agent, and what should you expect when working with one?

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Time Management Tips for Freelance Creatives: Staying Productive and Balanced

Time Management Tips for Freelance Creatives: Staying Productive and Balanced

For many freelance creatives, managing time can feel like an endless juggling act. Between multiple projects, client deadlines, and maintaining a personal life, the days can easily feel too short. I’ve been there. In the early years of my business, I often found myself working late into the night or sacrificing weekends to catch up…

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Top Marketing Tips for Designers and Illustrators: Proven Self-Promotion Strategies

Top Marketing Tips for Designers and Illustrators: Proven Self-Promotion Strategies

For many creatives, self-promotion can feel daunting. The idea of marketing yourself might evoke cringeworthy memories of awkward sales pitches or fears of sounding too pushy. I’ve been there, too. But over time, I realised that promoting my work wasn’t just an optional part of growing my creative business—it was essential…

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Mastering Cold Outreach: How to Land Your Next Big Illustration or Design Client

Mastering Cold Outreach: How to Land Your Next Big Illustration or Design Client

Whether you’re just starting out, or you’re a seasoned creative, waiting for clients to come to you simply isn’t an option. One of the most effective ways to build a network and secure illustration and design jobs is through cold outreach…

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Unlocking LinkedIn: The Hidden Goldmine for Designers and Illustrators

Unlocking LinkedIn: The Hidden Goldmine for Designers and Illustrators

When it comes to finding clients, LinkedIn probably isn’t the first platform that comes to mind for illustrators and designers. It’s easy to assume it’s just for corporate professionals, recruiters, or people looking for traditional 9–5 roles.

But if you’re a creative professional—whether you freelance, run a studio, or sell design services—it’s time to start seeing LinkedIn for what it really is…

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How to Find Clients as a Designer and Illustrator: 6 Tips for Creative Professionals
Graphic Design, Illustration, Freelancing Shira Bentley Graphic Design, Illustration, Freelancing Shira Bentley

How to Find Clients as a Designer and Illustrator: 6 Tips for Creative Professionals

One of the most common questions I’m asked is “How do you find clients as a designer and illustrator”?

Ultimately it all comes down to strategy, persistence, and an ability to be your own advocate. With that in mind, here are my top 6 tips to help you attract more clients…

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Exploring Vector Graphics: Unraveling Their Secrets and Why They're the Choice for Top-Tier Designs
Design Tips, Small Business, Freelancing Shira Bentley Design Tips, Small Business, Freelancing Shira Bentley

Exploring Vector Graphics: Unraveling Their Secrets and Why They're the Choice for Top-Tier Designs

In the vast and vibrant world of digital design, vector graphics hold a special place. They're like the Swiss Army knife in a designer's toolkit—versatile, scalable, and impeccably sharp. But what exactly are vector graphics, and why have they become the go-to choice for designers and clients alike?

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Illustrating Children's Books: How to Craft Enchanting Visuals to Enhance the Reading Experience
Illustration, Design Tips, Freelancing Shira Bentley Illustration, Design Tips, Freelancing Shira Bentley

Illustrating Children's Books: How to Craft Enchanting Visuals to Enhance the Reading Experience

Creating enchanting visuals for children's books is an art form that goes beyond mere illustration; it's about breathing life into stories, making them leap off the page and dance in the imaginations of young readers. Here's a guide on how to craft visuals that not only complement the narrative but also enhance the reading experience, making every turn of the page a discovery.

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First Impressions Matter: How Visuals Shape Brand Perception

First Impressions Matter: How Visuals Shape Brand Perception

There’s nothing quite like the power of first impressions, and in the digital age, your brand's first impression is made through visuals. It becomes the virtual handshake that can seal the deal or break the connection. But why are visuals so pivotal in shaping brand perception? Let’s explore how visual storytelling can impact your brand's narrative.

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Elevate Your Brand: Everything You Need to Know About Professional Graphic Design Services
Graphic Design, Small Business, Freelancing, Branding Shira Bentley Graphic Design, Small Business, Freelancing, Branding Shira Bentley

Elevate Your Brand: Everything You Need to Know About Professional Graphic Design Services

In a world of short attention spans and high expectations, good design isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether you're launching a new brand, refreshing your look, or trying to stand out in a crowded market, professional graphic design can help you do more than just look good. It can help you communicate clearly, connect meaningfully, and convert consistently.

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Mastering Modern Graphic Design: Essential Tips and Trends for 2024

Mastering Modern Graphic Design: Essential Tips and Trends for 2024

Graphic design is constantly evolving—and in 2024, we’re seeing a creative shift that favours innovation, bold experimentation, and user-centred thinking. Whether you’re designing for brands, building visual systems, or refreshing your portfolio, staying ahead of the curve means keeping one eye on the trends and the other on timeless design principles.

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The Best Graphic Design Software for Professionals: Unlocking Creativity in 2024
Illustration, Graphic Design, Design Tips, Freelancing Shira Bentley Illustration, Graphic Design, Design Tips, Freelancing Shira Bentley

The Best Graphic Design Software for Professionals: Unlocking Creativity in 2024

When it comes to graphic design, your tools make all the difference. The right software doesn’t just help you bring an idea to life—it shapes the way you work, think, and create. Whether you’re building brand identities, crafting editorial layouts, designing websites, or illustrating packaging, choosing the right tool is essential…

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Top 10 Graphic Design Trends of 2024: Where Creativity Meets Innovation
Freelancing, Graphic Design, Design Tips Shira Bentley Freelancing, Graphic Design, Design Tips Shira Bentley

Top 10 Graphic Design Trends of 2024: Where Creativity Meets Innovation

As we step into 2024, graphic design continues to evolve at a rapid pace—shaped by new technologies, cultural shifts, and a growing demand for emotionally resonant visual storytelling. This year’s trends reflect a beautiful tension between simplicity and complexity, tech-driven futures and nostalgic pasts, minimalism and maximalism.

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