Do illustrators count as "writers"

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I was watching Ferdinand and it has the following credits:


My question is should Robert Lawson be credited with a writing credit? I don't think so because even though his illustrations are a basis for the look & feel of the movie, he's not actually a writer. But, if he should be credited, how should that credit look?
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Adrian, Champion

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Posted 2 years ago

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2 years ago
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GMJ, Champion

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In this specific case, since the credit is for the published book, I would have submitted the credit this way:

Munro Leaf (based upon the book "The Story of Ferdinand")
Robert Lawson (based upon the book "The Story of Ferdinand": illustrations)
(Edited)
2 years ago
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Michelle, Official Rep

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Hi All -

Just to confirm, in this instance for the title "Ferdinand", the illustrations are a vital part of the book and as Robert Lawson received billing with Munro Leaf, this is an acceptable Writer credit. 

Regarding whether illustrators should always be listed under the Writer section, however, is a bit trickier to determine.  The example mentioned earlier in the thread for comic books is very valid, as these are collaborative works and very often the illustrator has as much creative input (sometimes more) than the actual writer of the dialogue. In order to make a truly fair judgement, we would have to look at the creative process of the book and then decide.

I hope this helps!
2 years ago
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Michelle, Official Rep

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Hi All -

Thanks for all your thoughtful comments about how illustrator credits should be categorized on the site.  I have passed along all your feedback to our editorial team for review and requested an update to our guides to help address these specific credit examples.
2 years ago
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Will, Official Rep

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Thanks for the feedback everyone, we've now added a new point to the writers guide to address these cases.

Regards,
Will
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