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Hi. I just have to share this link for any interested parties. I chanced upon it during a search and have just sent through an initial query. Price structure is incredible!!
http://www.ccovers.co.uk/index.html
Comments
I must concede the rear looks a little 'busy'.
I wonder if they sell duplicates, though. I wouldn't want the same as someone else.
No response to my email enquiry. And I thought internet entrepreneurs were always quick to respond for fear of competition.
*Brief rant over*
Some quick ideas.....
Recommendations from your friends, co-writers etc is always a good benchmark. They will be able to advise you of how their experience with the designer went - good points, bad points etc.
Look to see the designers portfolio- is it a strong body of work? Does the work look professional? Clear designs? Solid type?
Does the designer specialise in one type of cover or can they achieve consistent work across a range of book genres?
Price is a major consideration- the better ones will generally charge more than less experienced ones. However, in my view, a good designer is equally adept at producing good work at any price. Personally I do not give a lesser service or care to artwork just because the client is paying less.
Does the designer seem engaged and interested in the project? Do they understand and "buy into" your vision of the end artwork?
Are they technically adept at producing artwork that is print ready? Or, whatever media you are publishing in?
I'd suggest looking to see if they have a clear understanding of how typography and how to effectively use it to best showcase your titles. Far too many keen amateurs do not use this to a good end. (By happy coincidence, WM has a simple to follow article on typography in this months issue.)
Alternatively, if there's a location which is important to the family, you may be able to take a photograph yourself. Or one of an heirloom.
http://selfpublishingadvice.org/publishing-why-i-love-working-with-indie-authors-by-a-book-designer/
http://selfpublishingadvice.org/5-top-tips-to-create-a-book-cover-that-sells-jd-smith/