Fantasy Cartographer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of fantasy, the importance of cartographers cannot be overstated.

As worlds of imagination continue to grow and expand, the demand for skilled individuals who can map, elaborate, and secure these fantastical terrains intensifies.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a fantasy cartographer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to comprehend the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of fantasy cartography,

You’ve navigated to the right place.

Today, we unfold a customizable fantasy cartographer job description template, crafted for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s embark on this journey.

Fantasy Cartographer Duties and Responsibilities

Fantasy Cartographers are responsible for creating fictional maps for use in a variety of mediums, from novels and video games to film and television.

Their maps may depict entirely imaginary worlds or may merge real-world geography with fantastical elements.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Consulting with authors, game designers, or film directors to understand the specific requirements of the fantasy world
• Creating detailed sketches of the fantasy world including landforms, bodies of water, routes, and settlements
• Using mapping software to create digital versions of the sketches
• Adding artistic elements to the map to enhance its aesthetic appeal and authenticity
• Incorporating information provided by the client such as important landmarks, characters’ journey routes, or significant events
• Revising the map based on feedback from the client
• Creating legend and scale to provide context to the map’s features
• Printing and delivering the final map in the required format
• Ensuring the map aligns with the narrative of the fantasy world
• Staying updated with the latest cartography tools and techniques

 

Fantasy Cartographer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a talented and imaginative Fantasy Cartographer to join our team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for creating unique and detailed maps of fictional worlds, settings and locations for use in books, games, movies and other media.

The Fantasy Cartographer will understand the narrative and thematic elements of the world they are mapping, and use their artistic skills to create maps that both serve a practical purpose and enhance the world-building process.

 

Responsibilities

• Create detailed and aesthetically pleasing maps of fictional worlds, settings and locations.
• Work closely with authors, game designers and other creatives to understand the needs of the project.
• Translate verbal descriptions, rough sketches and story elements into detailed maps.
• Consider practical elements such as scale, topography, climate and culture when designing maps.
• Use a variety of artistic techniques and tools, including hand-drawing and digital design software.
• Ensure that all maps align with the narrative, thematic and visual elements of the project.
• Revise and refine maps based on feedback.
• Maintain accurate records of all work for future reference.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Cartographer, Illustrator, or similar role.
• Strong artistic skills, including drawing, design and color theory.
• Familiarity with digital design software such as Adobe Illustrator or similar.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Understanding of geography, topography and map-making principles.
• An interest in fantasy and world-building is a plus.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• A degree in Art, Design, Geography or a related field is desirable but not essential.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Fantasy Cartographer
• Work Environment: Studio setting with options for remote work. Collaboration with authors, game designers, and others may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Art Director or Project Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: Depends on experience and project scale.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time, Part-time, or Contract based on project requirements.
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your portfolio, resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Fantasy Cartographer Do?

Fantasy Cartographers are specialized artists who design and create maps for imaginary worlds.

These worlds often exist within the context of novels, video games, tabletop games, or movies.

They work closely with authors, game developers, and filmmakers to understand the geographical specifics and intricacies of their created worlds.

They then translate these into detailed and visually appealing maps.

Their job involves a deep understanding of geography and topography as they are required to create believable landscapes, even if they are based in a fantasy world.

This could include elements such as mountains, rivers, forests, cities, and roads.

Fantasy Cartographers also need to consider the culture and history of the world they are mapping.

They may need to indicate areas of conflict, historic ruins, or cultural landmarks on their maps.

In some cases, they might be asked to create ancient or worn versions of the map, requiring them to use specific artistic techniques to achieve an aged or used look.

Their maps serve to help readers, players or viewers better understand the world they are navigating, providing a visual representation of the space and contributing to the world-building experience.

 

Fantasy Cartographer Qualifications and Skills

A proficient fantasy cartographer should possess the following skills and qualifications that align with the job description:

• Artistic skills to create unique, detailed, and visually appealing maps of fictional lands.
• Strong spatial awareness and understanding of geography to create believable and consistent landscapes.
• Ability to use various cartography software and tools, including digital drawing and graphic design tools.
• Excellent imagination and creativity to construct coherent and compelling world maps from scratch or based on provided descriptions.
• An understanding of the genre and a keen eye for detail to create maps that are in tune with the setting and time period of the fantasy world.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively collaborate with authors, game designers, and other stakeholders, understand their vision, and incorporate their feedback.
• Problem-solving skills to address challenges in map design, resolve inconsistencies, and make adjustments as the fantasy world evolves.
• Organizational skills to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Knowledge of the conventions and symbols used in maps to provide clear and understandable visuals.

 

Fantasy Cartographer Experience Requirements

Fantasy Cartographers usually start their career with a solid foundation in geography, graphic design or fine arts.

The experience level can vary from having a degree in the related field to several years of self-taught experience in designing fantasy maps.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through creating maps for role-playing games, novels, or video games as a hobby or part-time job.

They could also gain valuable experience from internships or part-time roles in the game development, book publishing, or film industries.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience may have honed their skills in world-building and visual storytelling, having worked professionally on projects in gaming companies, or for authors and filmmakers.

They would have developed their technical skills in map-making software and traditional arts, and can create visually stunning and detailed maps that cater to specific narratives or game mechanics.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have demonstrated proficiency in creating immersive fantasy worlds with a high level of complexity and detail.

They may have a portfolio of work that showcases their ability to incorporate geographical and cultural elements into their designs.

This level of expertise is often sought after for lead designer roles in game development studios, publishing companies, and film production houses.

They might also have experience in guiding and mentoring junior cartographers.

 

Fantasy Cartographer Education and Training Requirements

Fantasy Cartographers generally have a degree in geography, art, graphic design or a related field.

They must have a strong background in understanding map elements and principles of design.

Knowledge in natural and cultural geography, urban design, and historical cartography can be extremely beneficial.

Advanced skills in drawing or digital design programs such as Illustrator, Photoshop or GIS (Geographic Information System) software are critical as many maps are created digitally.

Fantasy Cartographers should also have a strong understanding of fantasy literature and pop culture, which can greatly influence the aesthetic and context of the maps they produce.

For those who want to further their skills and marketability, courses or workshops in fantasy world-building, creative writing, or game design could be beneficial.

It’s also common for cartographers to build their portfolio, demonstrating their creativity and ability to create maps for a variety of different fantasy settings and scenarios.

While not typically required, a master’s degree in a discipline such as Geographic Information Systems or Visual Arts can enhance a Fantasy Cartographer’s skill set and job prospects.

Certification courses in digital design programs can also be an advantage, showcasing the individual’s technical proficiency.

 

Fantasy Cartographer Salary Expectations

A Fantasy Cartographer can expect to earn an average salary of $51,791 (USD) per year.

This wage may fluctuate based on factors such as years of experience, level of skill, complexity of projects, and location.

 

Fantasy Cartographer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Fantasy Cartographer need?

A Fantasy Cartographer needs artistic skills, creativity, and a strong understanding of geography.

They should have proficiency in graphic design tools to create visually engaging and detailed maps.

Additionally, a strong understanding of fantasy lore, history, and culture can help in creating realistic and immersive environments.

Good communication skills are also required to understand and incorporate client’s requirements into the maps.

 

Do Fantasy Cartographers need a degree?

While a degree is not necessary, a background in geography, cartography, or graphic design can be beneficial.

Knowledge in fields like history, archaeology, and anthropology can also be advantageous as it helps in crafting rich and detailed fantasy worlds.

However, this job mostly requires creativity, passion for fantasy world-building and the ability to illustrate those ideas visually.

 

What should you look for in a Fantasy Cartographer’s portfolio?

A Fantasy Cartographer’s portfolio should ideally include a variety of maps demonstrating their ability to create diverse environments, from cities to wildernesses, for different types of fantasy settings.

The portfolio should show a keen eye for detail, creativity, and the ability to convey complex ideas visually.

Experience with different design tools and software should also be evident.

 

What qualities make a good Fantasy Cartographer?

A good Fantasy Cartographer should have an imaginative mind to invent unique and fascinating worlds.

They should be detail-oriented to ensure the maps are intricate and accurate.

They should also have good research skills to learn about different cultures, terrains, and architectures to incorporate in their maps.

Good collaboration skills are also necessary as they would often need to work with authors or game developers.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Fantasy Cartographer?

Hiring a Fantasy Cartographer can be challenging due to the niche nature of the job.

It requires a blend of artistic talent and knowledge of geography, which may not be easily found.

Therefore, recruiting for this role might require looking into specialized forums, art communities or reaching out to authors and game developers for recommendations.

 

Conclusion

And there it is.

Today, we’ve journeyed into the magical realm of what it truly means to be a fantasy cartographer.

Intriguing, isn’t it?

It’s not just about drawing maps.

It’s about weaving an immersive world, one pencil stroke at a time.

With our handy fantasy cartographer job description template and real-world examples, you’re primed to embark on your new adventure.

But why end the journey here?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your guide to crafting detailed job postings or refining your resume to absolute brilliance.

Remember:

Every stroke of the pencil is part of a larger narrative.

Let’s create that world. Together.

How to Become a Fantasy Cartographer (Complete Guide)

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