Portfolio Handbook PDF

Is your portfolio actually ready to submit to agents and art directors?  

Hi, I’m Amanda Morrow! I’m an award-winning children's book illustrator represented by The Bright Agency, with titles published by Penguin Random House, Scholastic, Sourcebooks, and more.  

I designed this step-by-step handbook to demystify the publishing process and give you a clear, roadmap to build a children’s book portfolio you can be proud of. Whether you’re just starting out or preparing your agent query letters, creating a book spread in Procreate , book layouts, and industry standards you need to succeed. 

 WHAT’S INSIDE THE HANDBOOK (28-PAGE PDF):  

• Procreate Book Spread Canvas Guide : Step-by-step walkthrough for setting up a book spread complete with bleed, gutter, and live safety zones. 
• Character Age Proportions: Visual breakdown of character heights and proportions or Board Books (0–2 yrs) up to Chapter Books (8–10 yrs).  
• 32-Page Dummy Layout: Sample spread layout and pacing guide for book dummies. Explaining the difference between double page spreads, vignettes, full page, and spots. 
• Narrative Devices: Ways illustrators can use visual narrative to add to the authors story. We cover techniques like, Easter Eggs, Page Turns, & What Words Can't Say.   
• Self-Audit Checklists: Inventory guides to evaluate your portfolio like an art director. Including; character diversity, settings, lighting, and website presentation.  
• Agent Query Roadmap: Exact query letter formulas, MSWL research strategies, and submission best practices.  Industry Resource List: Key books, websites, podcasts, and online events for picture book illustrators.