Character design: Bringing your vision to life
Character design is more than just drawing pretty pictures. It's the art of creating compelling and memorable characters that resonate with audiences. A skilled character designer develops a character's visual appearance, personality, and backstory, breathing life into your project, whether it's a video game, animated film, comic book, or advertising campaign. They consider every detail, from the shape of their eyes to their signature pose, ensuring the character effectively communicates its role and purpose within your narrative.
Finding the perfect character designer
When searching for a freelance character designer, look for a portfolio showcasing a diverse range of styles and a strong understanding of anatomy, colour theory, and visual storytelling. A good character designer can adapt their style to fit your project's needs, whether you're looking for realistic, stylised, or cartoonish characters. Excellent communication skills are also crucial, as they'll need to understand your vision and incorporate your feedback effectively.
Key expertise areas
Style versatility
Character designers often specialise in particular styles, such as anime, chibi, realistic, or cartoon. Ensure their expertise aligns with your project's aesthetic.
Character development
Look for designers who can develop compelling backstories and personalities for your characters, adding depth and richness to your project.
Technical proficiency
Depending on your project, the designer may need to be proficient in specific software, such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, or 3D modelling programs.
Examples of interview questions
- Can you walk me through your character design process?
- What are your preferred styles of character design?
- Can you share examples of characters you've designed that demonstrate different emotions and personalities?
- How do you incorporate client feedback into your designs?
- What software are you proficient in?
Tips for shortlisting candidates
- Review portfolios carefully, paying attention to the consistency of style, anatomical accuracy, and the overall appeal of the characters.
- Look for designers who demonstrate a clear understanding of visual storytelling and character development.
- Check client testimonials and reviews for insights into their communication skills and professionalism.
Potential red flags to watch out for
- Limited portfolio or a portfolio showcasing only one style.
- Poor communication skills or a lack of responsiveness.
- Inconsistent style or anatomical inaccuracies in their work.
- Reluctance to discuss their design process or incorporate feedback.
Typical complementary skills
Character design often goes hand-in-hand with other skills, such as illustration, animation, concept art, and storyboarding. A freelancer with expertise in these complementary areas can provide a more comprehensive service.
Solving your problems with a freelance character designer
A skilled freelance character designer can transform your project by creating memorable and engaging characters that resonate with your target audience. Whether you're developing a new video game, producing an animated film, or launching a marketing campaign, a strong character can be the key to its success. They can help you:
- Develop a unique visual identity for your project.
- Enhance your storytelling and create a deeper emotional connection with your audience.
- Bring your vision to life with compelling and believable characters.
Examples of character design in action
Imagine a mobile game developer needing a quirky cast of characters to populate their new puzzle game. A character designer can create a range of unique personalities, from a mischievous fox to a wise old owl, each with their own distinct visual style.
Or consider a children's book author looking to bring their story to life. A character designer can visualise the protagonist, the villain, and all the supporting characters, capturing their essence and personality on the page.
Finally, a marketing agency might need a mascot for a new brand. A talented character designer can create a memorable and engaging character that embodies the brand's values and resonates with its target audience.
