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Editorial illustration
invoice template
Professional invoices for magazine and publishing illustration work — per-illustration fees, rush delivery, usage licensing, and kill fees. Pre-filled line items for editorial illustrators.
Create editorial illustration invoice
Uses Studio template (Pro) · Free trial available
Common editorial illustration line items
Editorial illustration work involves tight deadlines, specific usage rights, and cancellation risk. A clear invoice protects your time and ensures publishers understand what they are paying for:
| Line item | Notes |
|---|
| Per-illustration fee | Flat rate per illustration for editorial use at agreed dimensions |
| Rush delivery surcharge | Expedited turnaround within 24-48 hours of assignment |
| Complex composition | Additional charge for detailed scenes, multi-figure work, or technical subjects |
| Usage license — print edition | One-time print run, specify circulation and geographic region |
| Usage license — digital/web | Online publication, social media use, newsletter inclusion |
| Kill fee | Cancellation fee if project is stopped mid-production (typically 25-50% of agreed rate) |
| Source file delivery | Layered PSD/AI files for publisher's production team |
Built for editorial illustration work
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Deadline-ready invoicing
Editorial work runs on tight schedules. Create and send invoices in minutes so you can focus on the illustration, not the paperwork.
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Kill fee tracking
Include kill fees as a standard line item. If a publication cancels mid-project, your compensation terms are already documented on the invoice.
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Usage licensing clarity
Separate print and digital licensing into distinct line items. Publishers see exactly what rights they are paying for, and you retain control of unlicensed usage.
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Multi-currency support
Invoice international publishers in USD, GBP, EUR, and 30+ currencies. Editorial work crosses borders — your invoicing should too.
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Professional PDF export
Download polished PDFs that match the quality art directors expect. Clean layout with the Studio template designed for creative professionals.
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Online card payments
Clients pay by card directly from the invoice link. No chasing accounts payable departments for bank transfer details.
Frequently asked questions
What should an editorial illustration invoice include?
An editorial illustration invoice should include per-illustration fees, rush delivery surcharges, usage licensing for print and digital, kill fees for cancelled projects, and source file delivery. Separate each item clearly so art directors can match costs to their editorial budget.
What is a kill fee and how much should I charge?
A kill fee compensates you when a publisher cancels an assignment after work has begun. Industry standard is 25-50% of the agreed fee, depending on how far the project has progressed. Always include kill fee terms in your contract and invoice so there are no surprises.
How do I handle usage licensing for editorial illustrations?
Separate print and digital licensing as individual line items. Specify the scope — single print run with circulation limits, digital/web use for a defined period, or social media rights. This lets publishers pay only for the rights they need and lets you retain ownership for future licensing.
How should I price editorial illustration work?
Price per illustration based on complexity, deadline, and usage rights. Charge separately for rush delivery, complex compositions, and extended licensing. Use a flat per-illustration rate as your base and add line items for extras. This template includes all common editorial line items to help you quote accurately.