For the Illustrators’ Corner, Metro SCBWI newsletter Fall 1999
© Chris Tugeau

THE SPECS ON SPECS: (continued)

I’d like to share another couple of Spec Tips. It is not unusual for some of the specs to change while you are working on the project for editorial or design reasons. Get these changes in writing to avoid problems later. Often these are done over the phone. Simply ask that the AD jot those changes down for you on a company letterhead and fax them on over to you. And NEVER proceed to finish without a specific OK, in writing, to do so. This seems obvious, but it can appear like a good idea when your schedule is tight and the deadline is looming. Don’t hesitate to call the AD. NEVER ASSUME anything. Another tip is to watch for FAX distortion. Sketches will be faxed into the AD and faxed back, but keep in mind that a 1/16th to 1/8th inch distortion will happen and can effect your understanding of the directives.

So, my Specific Guidelines for following Specs are:

    1. Read the list completely — then read it again!
    2. Call the AD/editor with ANY questions immediately
    3. Follow the Specs completely
    4. Get everything in writing and KEEP it
    5. Send in finished work on time, early if possible (for revisions!)
    6. Keep the Spec list of all your jobs . . . they’re an education in themselves!
    7. Do your best work within the Specs and HAVE FUN!

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