Are you a writer looking to publish your book? The cover design is one of the most critical factors that can make or break your book’s success. It’s not just about creating something beautiful; it’s about creating something marketable.
Today, we will explore 10 things to expect from a book cover designer, such as a portfolio, transparent prices, proper communication, and more. Let’s dive in.
1. A professional-looking portfolio
A portfolio is the easiest way to check if a particular book cover designer is the specialist you are looking for. Examples of book covers allow you to assess their level and skills and understand whether their work style is suitable for your genre.
Moreover, book cover designers with portfolios are trustworthy and have a better reputation. After all, it shows they have experience and a track record of success in creating marketable book covers.
2. Expertise in book cover design and self-publishing
Do you know that beauty is not the primary function of a book cover? Its main task is to be marketable and attract as many readers as possible. The chosen artist must have expertise in book cover design and self-publishing.
An excellent specialist knows how to create a book cover that meets the genre standards and the audience’s expectations. At the same time, all image elements look harmonious, aesthetic, and eye-catching.
3. Excellent communication
Proper communication is the key to the success of any cooperation. Indeed, the book cover designer doesn’t have to answer your messages and questions every minute. However, a response within 24 hours is mandatory. The artist should also communicate any delays or issues that arise during the design process.
Throughout the project, the book cover designer should check in with you regularly to ensure that the image meets your expectations. This includes providing regular updates and asking for feedback to ensure the design is on track.
4. Attention to detail
A book cover designer pays close attention to every aspect of the cover, including:
- Visual appeal. It means selecting the right colors, typography, images, and layout to create a book cover that catches the eye and stands out on a crowded bookshelf.
- Target audience. The design must appeal to potential readers’ tastes and interests.
- Technical requirements. The book cover designer must pay attention to file formats, resolution, and color schemes to ensure that the book cover meets the technical requirements for printing and digital publishing.
They should also ask probing questions to learn more about your book, preferences, and tastes.
5. Advice for improving your book cover.
If a designer has years of experience and has won awards for book covers, chances are they know more about design than the writer. They can help you maximize the impact of your book cover by providing valuable insights and suggestions.
The book cover designer can also advise on how to make the book cover align with the genre of the book. This includes understanding the expectations and conventions of the genre and incorporating elements into the design that will appeal to readers of that genre.
However, you don’t have to agree with everything.
6. Compliance with deadlines
Since you have a timeline for publishing and marketing the book, the book cover designer will not delay the final result without a valid reason. They know that missing a deadline can lead to negative consequences such as delays in publishing, additional costs, or damage to their reputation.
Moreover, meeting deadlines is a sign of professionalism and reliability. You may also want to make additional changes once the cover is done. So it will be great to have some extra time.
7. Clear price
You can find the price right away on the designer’s website or resume, or you can request it and get a clear answer. This can help avoid any disappointment or dissatisfaction later in the design process. There should be no “I will think and write” as at least this is unprofessional.
Clear price is about trust, as the book cover designer should be transparent with potential clients. It also saves time for both by avoiding unnecessary negotiations or misunderstandings.
8. Use of high-quality and licensed images
High-quality images help create a professional and polished look for the cover, attracting potential readers and making the book stand out in a crowded market. Moreover, you can be sure that the book cover will look good in all formats.
Using licensed images ensures you are not infringing on copyright laws or intellectual property rights. This can help to protect you from legal issues or financial penalties down the line.
9. Source files
You may need to make changes or revisions to the design later on, and having access to the source files allows you to do so more efficiently. By providing source files, the designer gives authors greater flexibility and control over their book covers.
By getting source files, you can also reuse design elements in the future, such as for other book covers, promotional materials, or merchandise. This can save time and money in the long run.
10. Refunds
A designer’s priority should be ensuring the customer is satisfied with the final product. If you are totally unhappy with the design, the book cover artist should offer a refund.
Refunds show that the designer is professional and cares about the customer’s experience. This can help to build trust and confidence in their services.
Summing up
The article highlights 10 essential factors to consider when hiring a book cover designer. They include a professional-looking portfolio, book cover design expertise, deadline compliance, and more.
It is essential to choose a designer who can create a marketable book cover that meets genre standards and audience expectations.
And what do you expect from a designer book? Tell us in the comments.
