Why illustrations matter for books, branding, packaging, and digital products

Maru KotKot
Sep 26
2 min read

In today’s visual world, customers expect more than just words — they expect experiences. Illustrations make stories richer, brands more memorable, packaging more delightful, and apps more engaging. Whether you’re an author, small business, or startup, working with a freelance illustrator can transform your ideas into visuals that truly connect.

1. Illustrations in books

For authors and publishers, illustrations are essential. A children’s book illustrator doesn’t just decorate a page — they add depth to the story, capture emotions, and create worlds children want to return to.

Hiring a children’s illustrator ensures cultural relevance, smooth communication, and timely delivery. From picture books to graphic novels, the right illustrator helps your book stand out in a crowded market.

Children’s book illustration from the Adventures from Bluestone Island series showing a baby dinosaur hatching from an egg under the moonlight, and a pink axolotl character named Dot swimming among lily pads. — Book series: Adventures from Bluestone Island

2. Illustrations for branding and mascots

Businesses today need more than a logo. A brand mascot or character illustration becomes the face of your company, building trust and recognition. Think of Tony the Tiger, Duo the Owl, or the Michelin Man — mascots create emotional connection that lasts.

Working with a digital illustrator allows startups and small businesses to develop unique branding that feels authentic and consistent across all platforms.

Fox mascot illustrations created for Polati, shown in various soccer poses including goalkeeper, celebrating with a trophy, dribbling, and holding a red card. Surrounding sports elements include a whistle, gloves, soccer balls, boots, and a referee flag. — A custom fox mascot created for Polati’s scaffolding system brand.

3. Illustrations in packaging

Unboxing is now part of the customer journey. Creative packaging, supported by custom illustrations, can turn a simple product into a memorable experience.

Adding postcards, playful inserts, or character art inside the box shows customers that your brand cares about every detail. That’s why many small businesses choose illustration services to strengthen their packaging design.

Set of colorful minimalist children’s building blocks in a white box, shown with a postcard featuring a rabbit illustration and the text “WALL x Kids.” Some blocks are arranged outside the box on a grey surface. — Illustration Series for Packaging Inserts

4. Illustrations in digital products

In apps and websites, vector illustrations play a critical role. They’re scalable, lightweight, and adaptable across devices. A professional illustrator can create:

App icons and onboarding screens
Illustrated tutorials and interface elements
Website visuals that replace generic stock photos

From iOS app illustrations to Android app graphics, vector design improves user experience and helps digital products feel modern and approachable.

Digital illustrations for Broken Arrow Ranch summer camp shown on a tablet screen, featuring colorful characters doing outdoor activities such as archery, exercise, and gardening, designed in a modern flat style. — Digital illustrations for Broken Arrow Ranch summer camp

Illustrations are not just decoration — they’re a bridge between your brand and your audience. They help authors tell unforgettable stories, give businesses a recognizable personality, elevate packaging, and make digital products easier to use.

Whether you’re looking for a children’s book illustrator, a freelance vector illustrator, or a packaging designer, investing in illustration adds long-term value to your project.

Curious how illustrations could strengthen your book, brand, or product? Explore my portfolio here.