Why Your About Page Needs Illustration (and How it can Transform Your Brand)
Your "About" page is one of the most visited spots on your website, Substack, or even your social media profile. It’s the place people click when they want to figure out who you are, what you do, and why they should follow, hire, or trust you.
The problem? Too many “About” pages feel like they’ve been copy-pasted from a corporate bio—long on generic information, short on personality. And let’s be honest: nothing is more frustrating than landing on a site and finding an “About” section that tells you absolutely nothing about the people behind it.
I’ve visited plenty of websites where all you see is a lineup of photos of the team. No backstory. No insight into what they specialize in. No spark of personality that makes you think, Yes, these are my people. An About page like that leaves me asking:
Do they have the skills I’m looking for?
Will we actually jive if we work together?
What makes them different from the dozen other sites I just clicked on?
Your About page isn’t just a formality—it’s your chance to build connection and trust. It’s where you can show personality, expertise, and values all in one place. Done right, it’s the digital version of a first handshake: warm, memorable, and authentic.
That’s where illustration changes the game. By weaving in custom artwork—whether it’s portraits, icons that highlight your quirks and interests, or playful elements that bring your brand’s story to life—you transform a flat bio into something engaging, personable, and memorable.
And that’s where I come in.
Why Illustrated "About" Pages Work
An illustrated “About” page instantly makes your story more memorable. Instead of a block of text, you’re inviting people in with something visual, approachable, and infused with personality. Think of it as a visual handshake—warm, unique, and instantly recognizable.
Illustrations can:
Highlight quirks and interests – Coffee cups for caffeine lovers, paw prints for dog parents, sneakers for runners, stacks of books for readers.
Show off brand colors and style – Cohesive visuals that tie into your brand identity.
Break up text – Portraits, icons, and doodles make long bios easy to digest.
Create approachability – Hand-drawn likenesses feel friendlier and more engaging than a stiff headshot.
Examples in Action
I’ve helped clients (and myself) create illustrated “About” pages that are as unique as they are. Below are a few examples I’ve mocked up that would be great additions to a website, to introduce yourself on social media, or include in your newsletter welcome sequence.
Personal Portraits with Personality – Imagine your illustrated likeness paired with fun facts, quotes, or quirky doodles. It feels like a conversation, not a resume.
Custom Icon Sets – Think coffee mugs, paintbrushes, sneakers, or even donuts (yes, donuts!). These icons can double as Instagram highlight covers or blog dividers.
Industry-Specific Graphics – Realtors with keys and houses, interior designers with color palettes and plants, fitness coaches with yoga mats and kettlebells.
Where You Can Use Them
The beauty of illustration is in it’s versatility:
Substack & Blog About Pages – Hand-drawn portraits + icons set the tone for your writing.
Instagram & Social Profiles – Illustrated highlight covers, profile graphics, or reels covers create consistency.
Business Cards & Print Materials – An illustrated card or flyer is the one people don’t throw away.
Newsletters – A small doodle or illustrated portrait in your welcome email feels warm and personal.
Pro Tips for Making It Work
Match your personality to your visuals. Love dogs? Add paw prints. Coffee lover? Throw in a latte doodle.
Use illustrations to guide the eye. Instead of walls of text, break up your About page with icons or illustrated headers that make it easier to read.
Show your values visually. Bright colors = playful. Neutrals = sophisticated.
Think beyond portraits. Icons, borders, and fun illustrated backgrounds tie the page together.
Why It Matters
When people feel connected to you, they’re more likely to work with you, subscribe, or book your services. An illustrated “About” page does that in a way text alone can’t. It gives your audience a peek into your personality and values while making your brand unforgettable.
Ready to ditch the generic? From custom portraits to playful icons, I can create illustrations that tell your story visually and make your About page one-of-a-kind.
📩 Get in touch here and let’s start creating something unforgettable.
