How to Become a Cartoonist (Bringing Doodles to Life)

If you’ve ever dreamed of creating cartoons that captivate audiences or wondered what it takes to become a successful cartoonist, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll delve into the EXACT steps you need to embark on your journey as a cartoonist. We’ll discuss:

The artistic skills you need.
The education that can refine your abilities.
How to score your first job as a cartoonist.

So, whether you’re a doodling beginner or an art enthusiast seeking to refine your skills, stay tuned.

We’re about to unravel the blueprint to become a cartoonist.

Let’s get started!

Contents show

Steps to Become a Cartoonist

Step 1: Develop Drawing Skills

Developing drawing skills is the very first step towards becoming a cartoonist.

Since most of your work as a cartoonist involves drawing and sketching, it’s important to have a strong foundation in these areas.

You can start by practicing sketching and drawing in various styles and techniques to understand the basics.

You should also focus on learning how to draw human figures, animals, and environments, as these are elements commonly featured in cartoons.

Consider taking art or drawing classes to refine your skills.

Many community colleges and art schools offer courses in figure drawing, anatomy, perspective, and other key drawing skills.

Additionally, practicing regularly will help you become more comfortable with your drawing tools, whether you prefer traditional mediums like pencil and paper, or digital tools such as graphic tablets and software.

Remember, developing drawing skills is an ongoing process.

Even professional cartoonists continue to learn and improve their skills.

Keep an open mind and always be ready to learn something new.

Also, develop your own unique style as it will set your work apart and give it a distinctive touch.

Step 2: Study Cartooning Techniques and Styles

After deciding that you want to become a cartoonist, you should begin learning the various techniques and styles used in this field.

Cartooning is an art, and it requires a unique set of skills.

You can start by taking art classes focused on cartooning or illustration, which will help you understand the basics, such as line drawing, shading, and coloring.

It is also important to study the different styles of cartooning that are out there.

From the simplistic, exaggerated features of Sunday newspaper comics to the detailed and realistic illustrations seen in graphic novels, there are many ways to approach cartooning.

Understanding these different styles will allow you to find your unique voice as a cartoonist.

You should also practice drawing on a regular basis.

The more you draw, the better you will become.

Experiment with different materials and tools, like pencils, markers, or digital tablets.

This will help you find the tools that you are most comfortable using.

Additionally, study the work of other cartoonists.

Look at their art and try to understand how they use lines, shapes, colors, and other elements to tell a story.

This can provide inspiration and help you develop your own unique style.

Remember, becoming a skilled cartoonist takes time and a lot of practice.

Don’t get discouraged if your first few attempts don’t turn out as you’d hoped.

Keep practicing, keep learning, and keep pushing yourself to improve.

Step 3: Create a Strong Portfolio

A strong portfolio is crucial for a cartoonist as it showcases your style, creativity, and skills.

It serves as a visual resume that potential employers or clients can review.

Your portfolio should include your best work and demonstrate a range of techniques and subjects.

For instance, if you’re interested in political cartoons, include samples of your work on various political issues.

If your interest lies in comic books, include different characters and storyboards that you have created.

You should also consider creating both a digital and a physical portfolio.

A digital portfolio can be easily sent to potential employers or clients via email or shared on social media platforms.

You can create a website to showcase your work or use portfolio sites to display your cartoons.

A physical portfolio, on the other hand, can be helpful when attending job interviews or networking events, as it allows you to present your work in person.

Also, always remember to update your portfolio regularly with your most recent work.

This will not only show that you are active and continually improving your skills, but also that you are adaptable to changing trends and styles in the field of cartooning.

Step 4: Network with Other Cartoonists and Artists

Networking is a crucial step in any profession, and for a Cartoonist, it’s no different.

Joining a community of cartoonists and artists will not only give you opportunities to learn from others, but it can also open doors for potential collaborations, freelance work, and even employment.

Start by attending art exhibitions, comic conventions, and cartooning workshops.

These events are often filled with like-minded individuals and can be a great platform to meet and network with established cartoonists and budding artists.

Always carry your portfolio or samples of your work to showcase your talent when the opportunity arises.

Join online communities and forums dedicated to cartooning and art, like DeviantArt, Reddit’s r/comics, or professional organizations such as the National Cartoonists Society.

Participate in discussions, share your work, ask for advice, and offer constructive criticism.

Consider starting a blog or social media page dedicated to your work as a cartoonist.

This not only helps in showcasing your work to a broader audience but also allows you to interact and network with artists from around the world.

Remember, networking isn’t just about getting your next job.

It’s about building relationships, learning from others, and becoming a part of the vibrant and diverse community of cartoonists and artists.

Step 5: Obtain Formal Education (Optional)

While some cartoonists are self-taught, others choose to pursue formal education to enhance their skills and make themselves more marketable.

Many choose to obtain a bachelor’s degree in fields such as fine arts, animation, graphic design, or illustration.

These programs usually cover a wide array of topics, including drawing, digital art, character development, and storytelling.

In such programs, students have the opportunity to learn various techniques and understand the different styles of cartooning.

They also get a chance to create a portfolio of their work which can be invaluable when applying for jobs or freelance opportunities.

Furthermore, some cartoonists may choose to advance their education by pursuing a master’s degree in related fields.

This can provide them with a deeper understanding of the craft, and open up opportunities to teach at the college level or work in a more specialized area of the field.

It’s also worth noting that many cartoonists continue to take classes and workshops throughout their career to keep their skills sharp and stay updated on the latest trends and technologies.

However, formal education is not a strict requirement to become a successful cartoonist.

Many famous cartoonists have built successful careers based on their talent, creativity, and relentless practice.

Regardless of the path you choose, remember that the most important thing is to keep drawing, experimenting, and refining your craft.

Step 6: Master Storytelling and Humor

A key aspect of being a cartoonist is the ability to tell stories effectively and incorporate humor.

While your drawing skills are important, cartoons are usually used to convey messages, stories, or jokes.

This means that you need to be a great storyteller and have a good sense of humor.

You can master storytelling by reading a lot, watching various types of films and series, attending storytelling workshops, and practicing writing.

Try to understand the structure of stories, how characters develop, and how conflicts are resolved.

Notice the timing of jokes or humorous scenes and study how they are set up and delivered.

Humor, on the other hand, can be a bit tricky as it’s subjective.

However, understanding your audience and what they find funny is key.

Observing and practicing various forms of humor such as sarcasm, slapstick, puns, or dark humor can also help.

You can then combine your drawing skills with your ability to tell stories and make people laugh to create cartoons that resonate with people.

Creating your own cartoon strips, even if they are not published, is a great way to practice and develop these skills.

You can share your work on online platforms to get feedback and continuously improve.

Step 7: Gain Experience through Freelancing

As a cartoonist, one of the most effective ways to gain experience and refine your skills is through freelancing.

This process involves taking on various cartooning projects on a contract basis for different clients.

The scope of these projects can vary widely, from creating illustrations for books, to designing characters for animations, to developing storyboards for commercials.

Freelancing can give you a wealth of experience in the different aspects of cartooning.

It also allows you to expand your portfolio, which can be invaluable when seeking employment with larger organizations or publishing houses.

In addition, it provides opportunities to establish a reputation and network within the industry.

Keep in mind that freelancing requires you to manage your time and client relationships effectively.

You should also be prepared to negotiate contracts and payment terms, and you may need to deal with periods of fluctuating income.

However, the flexibility and diversity of freelance work can make it a rewarding way to gain the experience necessary to advance in your cartooning career.

It’s also important to use this time to find your unique style and voice as a cartoonist.

Experiment with different techniques, mediums, and themes.

This will help you stand out in the industry and will give you a sense of direction for your future work.

Finally, consider joining professional cartoonist organizations or online communities where you can connect with other professionals and stay updated on industry trends and opportunities.

Step 8: Learn Digital Tools and Software

In order to adapt to the evolving world of cartooning, it’s crucial to learn how to use digital tools and software.

While traditional methods of drawing are still relevant and appreciated, the industry is now leaning more towards digital drawing and animation.

Digital cartooning tools like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and Procreate can be extremely helpful in creating professional-grade artwork.

These software allow you to use a wide range of brushes, color palettes, and other tools that can replicate the nuances of physical drawing tools.

Learning to use layers, transparency effects, and other digital-specific techniques can greatly enhance the quality of your work.

Many of these software have extensive online tutorials and resources to help you get started.

You may also consider taking online classes or tutorials that focus on using these tools for cartooning specifically.

You can always start with free software like GIMP or Krita before investing in more professional programs.

The key is practice and consistency.

With time, you’ll gain proficiency and be able to create intricate artwork that can elevate your portfolio and appeal to potential employers or clients.

Remember, in today’s digital age, a cartoonist who can efficiently use digital tools and software stands a better chance in the competitive job market.

It can be the key to getting your work noticed and establishing a successful career in cartooning.

Step 9: Submit Work to Publications

After honing your skills and creating a portfolio, the next step is to submit your work to various publications.

This could be newspapers, magazines, online portals, or comic book publishers.

Research and identify a list of potential publications that align with your style and genre of cartooning.

Contact the art or features editor of each publication, introduce yourself, and express your interest in submitting your cartoons.

Some publications may have specific submission guidelines or processes, so it’s crucial to understand and follow these.

You may need to send a sample of your work, a full strip, or even a series of strips, depending on what the publication requests.

Don’t be discouraged if your work isn’t accepted immediately.

Rejections are common in this field, but persistence and resilience are key.

With each rejection, try to learn and improve your work based on any feedback received.

Remember, getting your work published not only helps you gain visibility and recognition but also allows you to receive constructive criticism that can help you improve your work.

Additionally, it could potentially lead to regular freelance work or even a permanent position.

Step 10: Build an Online Presence

In the digital era, building an online presence is a crucial step for a cartoonist.

Having an online portfolio not only allows you to showcase your work to a wider audience, but it can also open doors to potential job opportunities.

You can start by creating a personal website where you can display your best works.

Include a brief biography, contact information, and an online shop if you’re interested in selling prints or original pieces.

Social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Tumblr are also excellent places to post your cartoons and illustrations.

Regularly updating your social media with new work can help you to engage with your audience and grow your follower base.

Make sure you use relevant hashtags to increase visibility.

You may also consider creating a blog where you can share your creative process, upcoming projects, or your experiences as a cartoonist.

This can give potential employers or customers a better sense of who you are and your approach to your work.

Additionally, engaging with other artists online and participating in online art communities can increase your visibility in the field.

Remember to always maintain a professional demeanor online, as potential employers often look at your online presence as part of their hiring decision.

Building an online presence takes time and patience, but it can significantly improve your chances of success as a cartoonist.

Step 11: Attend Comic Cons and Art Fairs

To further your career as a cartoonist, it’s crucial to regularly attend comic cons, art fairs, and other related industry events.

These events provide a platform to showcase your work, network with industry professionals, and gain exposure.

Comic cons are a great place to meet publishers and editors who might be interested in your work.

You can also meet other cartoonists, discuss techniques, share experiences, and perhaps even collaborate on future projects.

Art fairs, on the other hand, can help you understand the business aspect of being a cartoonist.

These events provide opportunities to sell your work, gain exposure, and meet potential clients.

Be sure to bring along a portfolio of your best work to show interested parties.

Attending such events can also help you keep up-to-date with current trends and styles in the cartoon industry, giving you a competitive edge.

Take the opportunity to attend workshops and panels, learn from established artists, and get professional critiques of your work.

Remember, success in the cartoonist industry is not only about talent but also about marketing yourself and your work.

Regularly attending comic cons and art fairs is a strategic move to gain recognition and establish your brand.

Step 12: Protect Your Intellectual Property

As a cartoonist, the characters, storylines, and illustrations you create are your intellectual property.

It’s crucial to take steps to protect your work from being used without your permission.

This might involve copyrighting individual cartoons, trademarking character names, or even seeking legal advice to set up a more comprehensive intellectual property protection plan.

By copyrighting your work, you are legally declaring that you are the original creator of the piece and that others can’t use it without your permission.

To copyright a work, you can simply add a copyright notice to your work, but for more robust protection, you should consider registering the copyright with your national copyright office.

Trademarking, on the other hand, protects names, phrases, symbols, or designs identifying and distinguishing your work.

If you’ve created a unique cartoon character or series, you may want to trademark it to prevent others from using similar designs.

Additionally, always keep good records of your work.

This includes sketches, drafts, and all materials related to your work.

These can serve as evidence of your creative process and help establish you as the original creator in any potential legal disputes.

Lastly, it’s also worth considering legal advice if your work is gaining substantial recognition or you’re planning to sell your work to publishers or merchandise companies.

An attorney specialized in intellectual property law can help navigate contracts, licenses, and other areas where your rights as a creator need protection.

Step 13: Continuously Practice and Improve

As a cartoonist, it is crucial that you never stop honing your skills and improving your technique.

This involves practicing regularly and being open to learning new methods.

Drawing every day will not only improve your skill set but also help you develop your style.

Observing and copying the works of other cartoonists can also be a good way to learn and grow.

Remember, improvement doesn’t happen overnight.

It’s a long-term commitment that requires patience and perseverance.

Joining a cartooning club or online community can provide valuable feedback and provide a platform to showcase your work.

Keeping up with technological advancements in the industry is also a must.

Programs like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop are commonly used in cartooning.

By learning how to use these programs, you can diversify your capabilities and keep up with the evolving industry.

Lastly, always be open to constructive criticism.

It might be hard to hear at first, but it can provide insights into how you can improve your work.

Feedback from others, especially professionals in the field, can be a huge step towards growth and improvement.

Step 14: Explore Multiple Revenue Streams

As a cartoonist, it is crucial to diversify your income sources to ensure a sustainable career.

Although creating and selling original works is your primary income source, there are numerous other ways to earn money.

One potential revenue stream is through publishing collections of your work.

If you have a large fan base, you could consider compiling your cartoons into a book or a series of books.

You might also make money from syndicating your comic strips to newspapers and online platforms.

Another possibility is licensing your characters or artwork for merchandise such as t-shirts, mugs, posters, and other items.

This not only generates additional income but also helps in promoting your work.

Teaching is another avenue you can consider.

By conducting workshops or online courses, you can share your expertise with budding artists and earn from it.

Furthermore, you can also make instructional books or video tutorials.

Last but not least, many cartoonists are turning to online platforms such as Patreon, where fans can pledge a certain amount of money per month in exchange for exclusive content.

This can provide a steady income stream and allow you to interact directly with your fans.

Remember, the key to a successful career as a cartoonist lies not only in your creative talent but also in your ability to adapt to the ever-changing market and explore multiple revenue streams.

It’s about being creative not just on paper but in your business strategies as well.

Step 15: Stay Current with Industry Trends

As a cartoonist, it’s important to keep up with the latest trends and developments in the industry.

This not only includes the styles and techniques of cartooning, but also the tools and technology used to create cartoons, as well as the popular themes and subjects of the time.

Staying current can involve reading industry magazines, following influential cartoonists on social media, and regularly attending conventions, workshops, and other events related to cartooning.

Webinars and online forums are also valuable resources for learning about new ideas and trends.

Additionally, you should also be aware of the evolving tastes of your audience.

Following popular culture and societal shifts can provide inspiration for your work and make it more relatable and engaging for your audience.

Remember, as an artist, your style will evolve over time.

Keeping in touch with the latest trends can help you stay fresh and relevant in a highly competitive industry.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and adapt new techniques into your work.

After all, innovation and creativity are at the heart of being a cartoonist.

Cartoonist Roles and Responsibilities

A Cartoonist uses their creativity, artistic skills, humor, and satire to create illustrations and comic strips for various media including newspapers, magazines, television, and the internet.

They have the following roles and responsibilities:

Concept Development

Create original ideas for cartoons based on briefs or personal inspiration.
Use humor and satire to convey messages and entertain readers.
Develop characters, storylines, and comic strips.

Illustration and Design

Create sketches, illustrations, and layouts using traditional or digital tools.
Use color, shading, and textures effectively to create visual impact.
Ensure all designs meet the requirements of the client or publisher.

Storyboarding

Create storyboards for animations or comic series.
Illustrate scenes, characters, and actions in sequential order.

Research

Research topics and themes to ensure authenticity and relevance.
Keep up-to-date with cultural, social, and political trends.

Collaboration

Work closely with editors, writers, and other creative team members.
Take feedback and make revisions to artwork as needed.

Publication

Prepare final illustrations for print or digital publication.
Ensure all work is delivered on time and to specification.

Copyright and Legal Guidelines

Adhere to copyright laws and avoid plagiarism.
Understand and comply with media laws and ethical guidelines.

Marketing and Promotion

Participate in promotional activities such as exhibitions, book signings, and interviews.
Develop a personal brand and online presence.

Continual Learning and Development

Continually develop artistic skills and personal style.
Stay updated with new tools, techniques, and trends in cartooning.

What Does a Cartoonist Do?

A Cartoonist is a professional artist who creates cartoons, comic strips, or animations, either for print or digital media.

They can work independently as freelancers, or be employed by magazines, newspapers, animation studios, or advertising agencies.

Cartoonists come up with concepts, characters, and storylines, often using humor or satire to make a point or tell a story.

Their creations may be simple one-frame illustrations or complex multi-frame comic strips.

They use a variety of tools, both traditional and digital, to draw their cartoons.

This includes sketching with pencils or pens, as well as using graphic design software for digital art.

A Cartoonist also needs to keep up with current events and trends in popular culture, as these often serve as inspiration for their work.

They may also be required to work with editors or clients to make sure their creations fit a certain style or message.

Moreover, some Cartoonists are involved in creating storyboards for animation or film, which involves sketching out the scenes and actions for the script.

Lastly, they also need to promote their work, especially if they are self-employed.

This may involve using social media, attending conventions, or publishing collections of their work.

Essential Cartoonist Skills

Artistic Ability: A cartoonist must have strong drawing skills, with a keen understanding of proportions, perspectives, and colors. They must be able to draw both manually and digitally.
Creativity: Cartoonists must be highly creative, able to conceive and execute original ideas for characters, scenes, and stories. They should have a knack for thinking outside the box and coming up with unique, compelling concepts.
Storytelling: A big part of being a cartoonist involves conveying narratives through images. Cartoonists must be adept at visual storytelling, using their drawings to evoke emotions and communicate ideas.
Attention to Detail: A good cartoonist pays close attention to details in their work. They must be able to create intricate backgrounds and characters and ensure consistency throughout their drawings.
Humor: Many cartoons are meant to be humorous. A good cartoonist will have a strong sense of humor, and be able to incorporate it into their work to entertain and engage their audience.
Software Skills: Today’s cartoonists often work digitally. Skills in graphic design and illustration software, such as Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator, are crucial.
Communication: A cartoonist must have strong communication skills. They often work in teams, and need to be able to express their ideas clearly, accept feedback, and collaborate effectively with others.
Time Management: Cartoonists often work on deadlines. They must be able to manage their time effectively, prioritize tasks, and work efficiently to produce high-quality work on schedule.
Understanding of Pop Culture: Cartoonists often reference pop culture in their work. Having a solid understanding of current trends, popular figures, and cultural phenomena can help a cartoonist create relevant and relatable content.
Critical Thinking: Cartoonists must be able to think critically about their work. They need to be able to analyze their drawings and narratives, make improvements, and continually strive for better quality.

Cartoonist Career Path Progression

The Foundation: Junior Cartoonist

Your journey starts as a Junior Cartoonist.

At this stage, you’re like a blank canvas, ready to soak up knowledge and develop your artistic talent.

You might be tasked with sketching under supervision, coloring, and assisting in smaller projects.

Here are some tips for success in this role:

Perfect Your Craft: Practice sketching and coloring to improve your skills.
Learn from Others: Seek guidance from senior cartoonists and don’t hesitate to ask for advice.
Show Initiative: Be proactive and willing to take on new assignments to showcase your abilities.

The Ascent: Cartoonist

With experience and refined skills, you’ll transition into the role of a Cartoonist.

You’ll be entrusted with more complex characters and stories, and be actively involved in the creative process.

Here’s how to thrive at this stage:

Imagination: Cultivate creativity and originality to create unique and engaging characters and stories.
Collaboration: Work well with the team, including writers and other cartoonists, to achieve the best results.
Detail Orientation: Focus on creating clean, precise sketches that convey the story effectively.

Reaching New Heights: Senior Cartoonist

The next level is the Senior Cartoonist position.

At this stage, your artistic skills and creativity are widely recognized.

You may lead creative discussions, mentor junior cartoonists, and have a significant impact on the overall artistic direction.

To excel as a Senior Cartoonist:

Mentorship: Share your knowledge and experience to help junior cartoonists grow.
Creative Leadership: Guide the creative direction and ensure the art aligns with the story or concept.
Continued Learning: Stay updated with the latest trends in cartooning and continually improve your skills.

Beyond the Horizon: Lead Cartoonist and Art Director

As your career advances, you may become a Lead Cartoonist or Art Director.

These roles involve greater responsibilities, leadership, and strategic decision-making.

Here’s what to focus on:

Artistic Vision: Direct the overall artistic style and visual image for projects and campaigns.
Management Skills: Develop leadership skills to guide your team efficiently and resolve conflicts.
Innovation: Continually experiment with new styles and techniques to keep your work fresh and engaging.

Pinnacle of Success: Creative Director

At the pinnacle of the cartoonist career path, you may find yourself in the role of a Creative Director.

You’ll be responsible for shaping the overall creative strategy of the organization, making crucial artistic decisions, and leading larger teams of artists and cartoonists.

Cartoonist Salary

Entry-Level Cartoonist

Median Salary: $30,000 – $40,000 per year
Entry-level cartoonists typically have 0-2 years of experience and may hold degrees in fine arts, animation or related fields. They are often responsible for developing and sketching ideas for cartoons.

Mid-Level Cartoonist

Median Salary: $40,000 – $60,000 per year
Mid-level cartoonists have 2-5 years of experience and take on more complex projects such as animated series, comic books, or advertising campaigns.

Senior Cartoonist

Median Salary: $60,000 – $80,000 per year
Senior cartoonists possess 5+ years of experience and are responsible for leading projects, creating original characters, and mentoring junior cartoonists.

Lead Cartoonist / Animation Director

Median Salary: $80,000 – $100,000+ per year
These roles come with significant experience and often involve supervising animation teams, overseeing projects from concept to completion, and making crucial design and style decisions.

Artistic Director / Creative Director

Median Salary: $100,000 – $150,000+ per year
These high-level positions require extensive experience, and deep artistic expertise. They often involve setting artistic strategies, developing style guides, and overseeing all creative aspects of a company or project.

Cartoonist Work Environment

Cartoonists predominantly work in studios or offices, either as part of a creative team or independently.

They often collaborate with writers, editors, and other artists, especially when working on larger projects like comic books or animated films.

A growing number of cartoonists also work remotely, creating their works from home or even while traveling.

This is made possible by advances in digital art technology, which allows artists to work from virtually anywhere.

Depending on their specific role or project, cartoonists may have the flexibility to set their own schedules.

However, deadlines can be tight in this industry, and cartoonists often work long hours to meet them.

After gaining experience and building a portfolio, a cartoonist may choose to freelance or even launch their own creative studio.

FAQs About Becoming a Cartoonist

What education is needed to become a cartoonist?

While there is no strict education requirement to become a cartoonist, many professionals in the field have a bachelor’s degree in fine arts or a related field.

Courses in graphic design, illustration, animation, and drawing can provide valuable skills.

Additionally, self-study and practice are key as this is a skill-based job.

Knowledge in software like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop can also be beneficial for digital cartooning.

What are the essential skills for a cartoonist?

A cartoonist should ideally have strong drawing skills, creativity, a good sense of humor, and storytelling ability.

A knack for observing and illustrating human behavior and socio-cultural trends can also be helpful.

For digital cartoonists, proficiency in graphic design software is essential.

Additionally, discipline and time management are important as many cartoonists work on a freelance basis.

Can I become a cartoonist if I cannot draw?

While drawing is a fundamental skill for traditional cartooning, there are other forms of cartooning that do not require excellent drawing skills.

Some cartoonists use software to create simple or abstract designs that convey their stories effectively.

However, even if you’re not a great artist to begin with, you can improve your drawing skills through practice and training.

Is it difficult to find employment as a cartoonist?

The job market for cartoonists can be competitive since it is a specialized field with fewer job openings compared to other art and design professions.

Many cartoonists work as freelancers or have their own syndicated comics.

Others may find employment with newspapers, magazines, or animation studios.

Networking, developing a strong portfolio, and versatility in your style can enhance your employment prospects.

What is the income of a cartoonist?

The income of a cartoonist can vary widely based on experience, the number of projects they work on, and the platform on which their work is published.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for craft and fine artists, including cartoonists, was $48,760 in May 2019.

Freelance cartoonists may earn income per project or through revenue from self-published work.

What is the future outlook for cartoonists?

The future outlook for cartoonists depends on the medium in which they work.

While print media is declining, there is growth in digital media, which offers new opportunities for cartoonists.

Webcomics, animations, video games, and graphic novels are increasingly popular.

Therefore, being adaptable and keeping up with changes in technology and consumer preferences can open up new possibilities for cartoonists.

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Venturing on a quest to become a cartoonist is not an easy task, but it’s undoubtedly gratifying.

Equipped with the appropriate skills, education, and persistence, you’re well on your way to leaving a lasting mark in the realm of animation.

Remember, the journey may be demanding, but the possibilities are endless. Your creations could spark the next big trend that reshapes how we perceive, enjoy, and connect with art.

So, take that initial stride. Immerse yourself in honing your craft. Interact with industry professionals. And most importantly, never stop drawing.

Because the world is anticipating what you can bring to life.

And if you’re seeking tailored advice on starting or advancing your career in cartooning, check out our AI Career Path Advisor.

This complimentary tool is structured to provide personalized guidance and resources to help you effectively navigate your career journey.

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