Creative Invoice Template

Free Scientific Illustrator Invoice Template

Invoice templates for scientific illustrators billing publishers, researchers, and museums for accurate and engaging science visuals.

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What is a Scientific Illustrator invoice?

A scientific illustrator invoice is issued by a professional science artist to a publisher, academic institution, research organisation, museum, or pharmaceutical company for the creation of accurate visual representations of scientific subjects. Scientific illustration encompasses botanical art, medical and anatomical illustration, natural history illustration, technical diagrams, and infographics for scientific publications. Scientific illustrators combine artistic skill with scientific accuracy, working closely with scientists, researchers, and publishers to produce illustrations for textbooks, journal articles, museum exhibits, field guides, scientific posters, and patient education materials. The Association of Medical Illustrators (AMI) and the Guild of Natural Science Illustrators (GNSI) are professional bodies in this field. UK scientific illustrators may also hold membership of the Royal Society of Biology or have trained in medical art programmes at universities.

What to include on a Scientific Illustrator invoice

Common scientific illustrator invoice line items

Service Typical Rate Unit
Black and white line illustration 200 illustration
Full colour scientific illustration 450 illustration
Anatomical diagram (detailed) 600 illustration
Infographic / data visualisation 350 illustration
Museum or interpretive panel artwork 800 panel
Additional revision round 100 illustration

How to invoice as a scientific illustrator

Invoice on delivery of final artwork files. For large illustration projects (textbooks with 20+ illustrations), invoice in stages: 50% on commencement and 50% on delivery of all final files. Include the rights and usage on every invoice. Publisher rights (first print run only, worldwide rights, electronic rights) are distinct commercial items and should be clear to both parties. For academic and research clients who may have grants funding the illustration work, confirm the correct payee (the researcher, the institution, or the grant account) before issuing the invoice. For natural history and botanical art intended for exhibition or sale (not just publication), copyright and exhibition rights should be separately considered from publication rights.

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Frequently asked questions

How much do scientific illustrators charge per illustration?
Scientific illustration fees vary by complexity. Simple black and white line diagrams cost £100 to £300. Full colour detailed illustrations (botanical, anatomical) cost £300 to £800. Museum-quality large-format artwork can cost £600 to £2,000+. Infographics and data visualisations typically cost £200 to £600.
What rights do publishers get when commissioning scientific illustration?
Publishers typically require exclusive rights for the first edition (print and digital) in the contracted territory. Subsequent editions, translations, or additional uses require new agreements. The illustrator retains copyright unless explicitly assigned. Be clear about rights granted on every invoice and contract.
Do scientific illustrators need specific qualifications?
Many scientific illustrators have degrees in scientific illustration, natural history illustration, or a related science or art subject. Some are self-taught with deep scientific expertise. The AMI offers professional development and certification. A strong portfolio demonstrating accuracy is more important than specific credentials in many commissioning decisions.
What software do scientific illustrators use?
Adobe Illustrator is standard for vector diagrams and technical illustrations. Adobe Photoshop is used for raster-based detailed artwork. Procreate (iPad) is popular for more painterly natural history work. CorelDRAW is used in some medical illustration contexts. Traditional media (watercolour, gouache, ink) remain used for fine botanical art.
Should scientific illustrators charge VAT?
Yes, if annual taxable turnover exceeds £90,000. Established scientific illustrators with publishing clients may reach this threshold. Standard rate 20% applies to all illustration services.
Can I use this template for free?
Yes. Tidybill's free plan lets you create up to 5 invoices per month at no cost, with no credit card required. You can use the Scientific Illustrator invoice template straight away after signing up.