8 Expectations Every Author Must Have from a Book Cover Designer

In the competitive world of publishing, authors understand that the success of their book does not rely solely on a brilliant manuscript. Other factors, such as a compelling book cover design, can significantly contribute to ensuring the success of their work.

Just as a great manuscript relies on a great author, the creation of a book cover is no different. It all begins with hiring a book cover designer and establishing your expectations for these professionals.

Here are some of the top expectations you should have from your book cover designer.

Look Beyond the Designs

Hiring a book cover designer can be challenging, especially when you understand that great book covers alone are not enough to hire the right professional. If you are seeking the best professionals, prepare yourself for more than a few design options.

When you hire your dream book cover designer, you can expect them to not only understand your vision for your book cover but also weigh it in reference to the ongoing industry trends. 

They can help you implement your vision when it is right or nudge it in the right direction to ensure that your work stands out among the competitors.

Consider the Response Time

If a book cover designer takes a week to respond to your query, you might form a mental image of their professionalism and responsiveness. You do not have to make compromises thinking that your book cover designer may have a lot on their plate. 

Even the busiest book cover designers must be able to address your queries within 24 hours. Since they undertook your project, they are responsible for addressing your queries timely. If they fail to do so, it is always a good idea to consider other options. 

In case the other skills and qualities of a book cover designer are enough to win over your heart, you can ask them for their preferred medium of communication to ensure timely replies.

Hold the Power

While creative input from experienced book cover designers matters a lot, you cannot let it overpower your authority as an author. Some book cover designers can push you to make your decision. However, you do not have to give in. Eventually, the final decision regarding the book cover is yours. 

You must always keep an open mind while working with a book cover designer. Based on their experience and expertise, you can be sure that their opinion can be helpful but you do not have to compromise your vision for it.

The designer has no right to impose their creativity on you. They will understand when you are not on board with a design and introduce you to other options.

Accept their Advice

Having the final word can be empowering. However, you cannot let this feeling of empowerment restrict you from gaining advice and criticism. Professional cover designers have years of experience and several qualifications to provide you with good advice. 

You can always ask your book cover designer what can be improved and how it can be done. They will not only offer their opinion but also tell you how it can help your work stand out. If you feel convinced, you can apply their advice to your work. Otherwise, you always hold the power to say no.

Prepare for Questions

When you hire a book cover designer, you cannot expect them to create a masterpiece just by reading your brief. They will have questions, and you must be prepared to answer them. These questions may be related to your vision, story, and the message you want to convey.

The answers to the questions asked by your book cover designer can help a book cover designer understand not only what you want but also the needs of your target audience. As a result, you can be sure that your book cover will resonate with your target audience and make an impact.

Acknowledge Weaknesses

One of the most important things you must understand about book cover designers is that they are not masters of every skill. Just because a book cover designer is well-reviewed does not mean that they will be able to work in any medium you desire.

Whether you want to consider graphic design for your book cover or illustrative art, it is best to discuss your needs with the book cover designer beforehand. The best graphic designers will never hold back from telling you about their weaknesses.

Meet Your Designer

Many clients hire freelancers from different platforms to get their work done. While these platforms have made hiring the best talents so much easier, you must not hire someone without meeting them face-to-face at least once before finalizing the deal.

A professional book cover designer is likely to have a website and social media handles dedicated to showcasing their work. This way, you can be sure that the person you are paying is working on your project and not outsourcing it to other designers.

Even if you are unable to meet the designer you are considering hiring in person, you can arrange a meeting with them online to get to understand them better as a designer and determine whether they are the right match for your vision.

Discuss the Fees

While most book cover designers may not have their pricing displayed on their website, you can always ask them for a quote to see if their services can fit into your budget. These designers are very upfront about their fees and understand the importance of maintaining transparency with their clients.

It is best for you to discuss the fees and terms with your book cover designer before you start working together. This way, you can avoid surprises and miscommunication at any point in your partnership with your partner.While discussing the pricing structure, make sure that you also have a conversation about the deposit with your book cover designer. The submission of your initial deposit can rely on several factors, such as the nature of your project, the deadlines, and the package you opted for.