About Becoming a Court Artist

A court artist make sketches of people involved in trials. These sketches are usually done during high profile trials going on. News stations and newspapers hire court artists to do this for them. These sketches are especially useful for those cases in which television cameras have been banned by the judge.

• You will have to learn to sketch fast and to be accurate. Practice sketching in public places with a lot of movement. This will help you to improve the skills you will need inside the court room.


• You should have a portfolio, containing your best sketches. You will show this to prospective employers in order to allow them to see your best work.


• Practice taking sketches during court cases just to improve your skills. This is generally allowed without special permission but you may want to check with courts in your area.


• Be aware that travel is necessary with this career. You may spend weeks or even months in hotels during big trials.


• You could have long periods without a job. Usually a court artist is a freelance worker and will be called in when needed.


• Contact as many television stations, magazines and news shows as you can, and make appointments with as many the producers. Show them your portfolio, and then keep in touch. Touch base with them often so they remember your name and think of you when they are in need of sketches.


• Network. Join organizations for journalists and news professionals. The more people in the profession that you get to know, the better.


• It can and often does take a long time to get your first job. If this is something you really want to do, stick with it and be persistent.