Medical illustrators are those rare individuals that have both a demonstrated artistic ability and a detailed knowledge of human and animal anatomy, and surgical and medical procedures. They create graphic representations of medical or biological subjects for use in textbooks, pamphlets, exhibits, instructional films, civil and criminal legal proceedings, and teaching models. They may use numerous types of media for this work: photography, computer programs, paint, pencil, and other tools. They use graphic design software to describe and illustrate a variety of complicated medical concepts and processes. Their major function is to assist in education and research by producing pictures and 3-D models of difficult biological concepts.

Areas of Specialization
Medical illustrators may specialize in certain parts of the body (heart, brain, etc) or they may specialize in certain subjects (micro-organisms, animals, etc).

Work Environment
Medical illustrators may work for publishing companies, hospitals, medical schools, pharmaceutical companies, advertising agencies, research organizations, or large medical centers with teaching and research programs.  Many are free-lance artists that contract out their services.  This field is very competitive and has a limited number of positions.