So many writers tell me that can't even draw a stick figure, which is completely impossible. Some way, some how, most people who say they cannot draw, can draw at least Mr. Stickman. However, should the need arise, there are some simple steps to hire someone who has more experience (or more time) than you:

1. Research and explore portfolios: Find comic book artists whose style aligns with your project by browsing through their portfolios, websites, or social media profiles.  Artists who specialize or prefer drawing manga might not do so well with a horror-noir comic. Similarly, if you have a story with tons of vehicles or spaceships, make sure that is represented in their body of work. Some artists have preferences and limitations as to what they can and cannot draw.  

Hop on social media to see artist portfolios: Instagram, Artstation, Deviantart, etc. with key words "comic book artist" "artist for hire" "penciller"

2. Set your budget: Determine a budget for your project, considering the rates of comic book artists based on experience, skill level, and complexity. As of now, I've personally hired excellent talent at $85 per page who will draw both pencils and inks. Now grab that calculator: a 22- page comic will cost you  ($85 x 22) = $1870. As your budget allows, you can push and pull your story in order to make more, or less pages.

3. Post a job listing or reach out directly: Post a clear job listing or contact artists directly to inquire about their availability, rates, and interest in your project. You can also use work-for-hire websites like Fiverr or Upwork.

4. Conduct interviews: Shortlist artists based on their portfolios and conduct interviews to assess their professionalism, communication skills, and enthusiasm for your project. Artists are available worldwide with tons of talent in certain pockets of the world. 

5. Hire an artist you are interested in to produce a single page: Pay attention to their communication, how accurate their estimate is to complete the work, how they want to get paid (full payment upfront, half upfront, Paypal, if they are overseas, determine who pays for fees and currency conversions, etc.), and, most importantly, if their style fits the story, and their work meets your expectations.

Remember, the hiring process requires effective communication and collaboration to ensure a successful partnership with the chosen artist. You may have to adjust your expectations based on what you can find and what is produced. No one can see inside your head, so do your best to detail as much as you can. In the end, if you can't find someone, you may have to learn how to draw yourself.

Hiring a comic artist from another country, overseas, or another culture comes with unique challenges and opportunities. For example, I once worked with an artist in Brazil and it wasn't until paying them for several pages that they told me what I was sending was quite different from what he was receiving. I didn't understand all the fees involved.

Here are five key tips to consider:

1. Communication and Language Barriers: Ensure that you and the artist can communicate clearly, especially about creative direction, deadlines, and feedback. Clear, concise communication is vital to prevent misunderstandings.

2. Cultural Understanding and Style: Be aware of cultural differences that might affect the artwork, especially if your comic is intended for a specific audience. Make sure the artist’s style aligns with the tone and themes of your comic, and that they are familiar with any cultural nuances that may influence the narrative or art. Take care to use common idioms--they may not translate like you think they do.

3. Payment Methods: Like I mentioned earlier, decide on a secure payment method (like PayPal, Wise, or direct bank transfers) that works for both you and the artist. Make sure to consider all the fees when using funds transfer services. They can add up easily. There are currency exchange fees and transaction fees that need to be considered up front. 

4. Contracts and Intellectual Property (IP) Rights: It's essential to have a clear contract that outlines the scope of work, payment structure, deadlines, and, most importantly, ownership of the artwork. Make sure both parties agree on who retains the rights to the finished product. Be aware of international laws regarding copyright and ensure your contract is legally sound in both countries.

5. Time Zones: Consider time zone differences when setting deadlines and scheduling meetings. Plan accordingly to allow for enough turnaround time, especially when providing feedback.

These tips will help ensure a smoother working relationship and a successful collaboration with a comic artist outside of your location.

As your freelancing jobs expand, you'll inevitably have to consider how money management works for your line of business. It can be quite intimidating at first, but after the first couple of years, finding a system of recording your income, expenses, and assets will become a part of your workflow, or at least it should.

Right up front, I'll clearly state that I am not a tax attorney or tax specialist so everything stated will be from my own personal experiences.

I keep track of everything and anything that is linked to me creating comics: art supplies, computer equipment, art books, Comic Convention tickets, the rideshare to get there, the business meet and greets at a restaurant, and the list goes on.

Here's a great list to start with.

Do your best to be aware of the business side of freelancing and eventually, it will get to be a simple part of your day or week.