How to Price Your Scientific Illustration Works?

The cost of a scientific illustration varies widely, influenced by factors such as complexity, intended use, artist experience, and licensing rights. Here's a breakdown of typical pricing:

General Pricing Estimates:

• Per Illustration: Scientific illustrators often charge between $150 to $500 or more per illustration, depending on the project's specifics. When quoting your customers for a requested illustration work, you may estimate the price based on the expected hours of work with an hourly rate ranging from $25 to over $100, based on your experience and the project's demands.

  
  

Specific Service Pricing:

• Graphical Abstracts & Scientific Illustrations: Prices range from $55 to $220, with a typical turnaround of 10 business days.

• Infographics and Visual Data: These services are priced between $55 to $180, also with a 10-business-day delivery.

• Biology & Medical Illustrations: Costs vary from $55 to $250, with an 11-business-day timeline.

• Journal Covers: More detailed projects like journal covers can range from $240 to $450, with a 14-business-day delivery.

Additional Considerations:

• Licensing and Usage Rights: The intended use of the illustration (e.g., academic publication, commercial use) can significantly impact the price. Licensing rights, such as exclusivity and duration, are crucial factors in determining the final cost.

• Complexity and Detail: Highly detailed or complex illustrations typically command higher prices due to the increased time and expertise required.​

• Artist's Experience: Seasoned illustrators with specialized expertise may charge premium rates compared to less experienced artists.​

Given these variables, it's always a case by case analysis for each design project. But the information above will give both parties a reasonable starting point to initiate the quotation with tailored adjustments.