"There are so many wonderful books out there, but the one thing that’ll make a book stand out to readers is that striking first impression." - Claire L. Smith
Great post! I was a designer (but definitely not an illustrator) for much of my career as a journalist, yet I wouldn't have dared to design my own covers. Nowadays, the talent level of many professional designers/illustrators is through the roof. So if there's any way you can afford it, you should go in that direction.
So helpful. I've got three professional designers as friends, and I've always intended to have them design my book covers. This answers so many of the questions I've had in the back of my mind.
Red, black, and white are good colors to combine--that cover is striking. I remember a time when it seemed the prestige presses like Knopf and Scribner seemed to using that combo exclusively--or it seemed that way.
Great post! I was a designer (but definitely not an illustrator) for much of my career as a journalist, yet I wouldn't have dared to design my own covers. Nowadays, the talent level of many professional designers/illustrators is through the roof. So if there's any way you can afford it, you should go in that direction.
That is awesome, Jim!
And you get to see their portfolios.
So helpful. I've got three professional designers as friends, and I've always intended to have them design my book covers. This answers so many of the questions I've had in the back of my mind.
I'm so delighted to hear that! Thanks for reading, Tim!
Red, black, and white are good colors to combine--that cover is striking. I remember a time when it seemed the prestige presses like Knopf and Scribner seemed to using that combo exclusively--or it seemed that way.
Yes, those are attractive colors!
That's a great post! I'm saving it.
Thanks so much, Victoria!