Authors often have a creative idea for their book cover. It can be one of the most fun things to do with the book publishing process, and also, one of the most frustrating.
To design a cover that works best, you most know the size of the book (6×9, 5.5×8.5, etc.), the genre you will be selling into (romance, self-help, adventure, etc.), whether it will be sold in both print and eBook formats (printers require at least 300 DPI resolution) and whether a potential reader will grasp the type of content you’ve written just by glancing at the cover. Consider that on most websites, books will have a small thumbnail image which buyers will have to be attracted to, and it can be one of hundreds or more.
Considerations will include the font, colors, images, and placement of these. If you are an unknown author, do you need to put your name in large print? Probably not. Will your title need a tagline or subtitle? You’ll need to use some common sense and try to see your book cover through the eyes of a buyer, not just what appeals to you. Do you have permission to use the images? Does the image creator require attribution? Make sure to check all the licenses when using an image.
If you search online, you can discover the meaning of different colors. Colors evoke different emotions and feelings. While some authors prefer to go with dark or black and white to create a “spooky” atmosphere, again, consider how easy it will be to stand out in a sea of other book covers and if the font is easily read.
If you want to have the cover designed, there are many websites online (search for “book cover design”) that provide that service. Just make sure that you are clear about your expectations and pricing upfront so there are no surprises. You can also purchase “pre-made” book covers that will only be sold to one person.
And remember, sometimes the most simple design, can be the most eye-catching!