After countless hours spent on writing, editing, and refining your manuscript, you are finally ready to launch your book. However, one major detail you can’t afford to overlook is your book cover design.
A well-designed book cover communicates the genre, tone, and credibility of your book in a single glance. But that only happens when you are working with the right book cover designer. Not just someone with design skills, but someone who understands publishing, marketing, and storytelling through visuals.
There are thousands of talented book cover designers out there. So, how would you make sure which one is the right designer for you and your book?
To help you navigate this process confidently, we have compiled seven essential book questions to ask before hiring a cover designer.
It might feel basic question, but you would be surprised how many designers are booked out months, and some, even years. So, don’t skip this question. Always double-check their availability before getting too far ahead.
Timelines vary widely. Some designers need months’ notice, while others have flexibility. Getting clarity on their scheduling process helps you plan your launch accordingly.
When hiring a cover designer, it’s key to find someone with experience in your specific sub-genre. Your book cover is your first impression, and it needs to grab the right audience immediately. A designer who understands your genre will know what visuals and styles resonate with your target audience, including current trends, reader expectations, and popular tropes. Book cover designers unfamiliar with your genre may create a beautiful cover that still completely misses the target.
Ask: “How do they research what covers are successful in your genre?” If they take a thorough research approach, they should research what is currently selling in your sub-genres by browsing retailer sites. A cover designer who walks you through their research process shows professionalism and experience.
Don’t be shy about asking for samples. It’s easy to get caught up in excitement, especially with a referral from a friend—but don’t rush into an agreement. Take time to compare portfolios.
Reviewing a designer’s past work gives you a strong indication of their style, consistency, and versatility.
Cost is something that should be clear from the very beginning. Prices vary from book to book. You might get a cover design for as low as 50$ or over $500. Some designers offer set pricing packages on their websites, while others create custom quotes based on your specific needs. But price alone doesn’t tell the whole story. Clarify what’s included in the design package.
Always ask:
It’s common for designers, especially higher-end ones, to require a deposit (usually 20% to 50%) before starting any work. Most of them include the full paperback spread in the price, but don’t assume—ask! Knowing exactly what you’re paying for saves everyone headaches later.
A custom book cover design is built from scratch based on your story, with completely original book cover illustrations. Others are premade, meaning the designer created them in advance and sells them as-is (with minor changes, such as swapping your title and author’s name).
Premade covers are often cheaper and faster but less tailored to your specific story. If that matters to you, ask whether custom design is available and what the process involves.
Most importantly, ask about usage rights:
Most ethical designers will clearly outline your usage rights in a contract. Protect yourself by reading the fine print and asking questions if anything is unclear.
If you are publishing fiction, especially in genres like historical, fantasy, or thriller, a unique and visually compelling novel cover design can significantly increase your book’s appeal. Readers browsing digital shelves make snap decisions based on how professional and genre-appropriate your cover looks.
Using an image of someone like Henry Cavill might seem perfect for your book cover if you are writing romance. But you can’t legally use it unless you have explicit permission. Make sure your designer is using properly licensed images. Websites like Shutterstock, Getty Images, and Depositphotos, where usage rights are clearly defined and paid for. A professional book cover designer has access to these image libraries. This will give them a wide selection of images to get inspiration or choose from if they are not doing custom artwork or photography for your cover.
The same goes for fonts. Ask your designer what fonts they would use on your cover. If you plan to create matching graphics or ads later, you may want to purchase the font license to use it consistently across your promo materials.
Designers work on different timelines. Some move quickly, others take weeks. Knowing when to expect a proof helps you plan your release schedule and build in time for any tweaks. Don’t forget to ask for revisions. Not all book cover designers offer unlimited revisions. Some designers offer 1–2 rounds for free, while others may charge for each additional change.
Most designers are super accommodating, but it’s good to know where the boundaries are so no one gets overwhelmed or frustrated.
Before proceeding, let’s discuss “Where do you find a professional book cover designer?”
There are several routes you can take. If you are traditionally published, your publisher might handle the design process, but if you’re self-publishing, it’s up to you to find the right fit. Luckily, there is no shortage of talent out there.
Here are a few places to begin your search:
Websites such as Reedsy, Fiverr Pro, and Upwork are home to many experienced book designers. Reedsy, in particular, specializes in publishing professionals, which gives it a slight edge if you're looking for someone with industry knowledge.
Behance and Dribbble are goldmines for exploring designers’ portfolios. These platforms let you browse based on style, medium, and industry.
Don’t underestimate the power of word-of-mouth. Ask other authors in your genre who designed their covers. Often, happy authors are more than willing to share their secrets.
Instagram, Pinterest, and X can be surprisingly effective for finding book cover artists. Many designers post their latest projects and link to their websites and portfolios.
Once you have narrowed down a few options, it’s time to get serious and have a conversation with your top pick.
Not every designer is the best one, and choosing the wrong one can lead to costly missteps. Watch out for these warning signs:
Communication is key. If a designer can’t clearly explain their process, timeline, or fees, that’s a red flag. Experienced designers know their workflow inside out and are happy to lay it all out for you.
One of the biggest warning signs is a portfolio that’s all over the place in terms of quality and style. If you see some covers that look amazing and others that seem rushed or mediocre, that’s a huge red flag. Sometimes, this means the designer might show work that’s not theirs or use AI-generated images.
Custom illustrations and original design elements tell your story in a unique way, and that’s what sells books. So, steer clear if you spot a heavy reliance on stock imagery; your book might end up looking generic or “cheap.”
If they can’t outline how the project will unfold or when you can expect drafts and revisions, you’re entering murky territory. Professional designers work with a clear process and deadlines to keep things on track.
A verbal agreement isn’t enough. You need a contract that outlines deliverables, timelines, payment terms, revision rounds, and rights. If a designer resists putting it in writing, run the other way.
Watch out for a designer demanding the full payment up front, especially if you have never worked with them before. It’s normal to pay in stages—maybe a deposit to get started, another payment after seeing initial sketches, and the final payment when the cover is done. If they insist on full payment before any work begins, and you don’t have strong references for them, it’s probably best to walk away.
While you want a designer with expertise, collaboration is key. If they shut down your ideas or seem dismissive, that’s a red flag. Your vision should be respected and integrated—not overridden.
Some projects take time. If a designer promises a stunning, customized cover in 24 hours without even understanding your story, be skeptical. Great design requires thought, not just speed.
Be cautious of designers with vague or no reviews, especially if they’ve been in business for a while. Better yet, ask them for client references or case studies.
You wouldn’t hire someone to renovate your home without checking their reviews. Treat your book the same way.
We all love a good deal, but when a price is way below industry standards, be cautious. A high-quality cover takes time, skill, and creativity, which costs money. Super low prices often mean shortcuts such as pre-made templates.
Keep these red flags in mind, and you’ll be much better equipped to hire a book designer who is talented, reliable, and a great fit for your project. Always choose professionalism over promises!
Your book cover design shapes your story and how readers perceive your work. So, choosing the right book cover designer is really important. A good decision includes thoughtful conversation and a little bit of creativity. So don’t rush the process. Do your research, ask the right questions, and watch out for red flags.
By following the tips mentioned above, you can judge their skills and see if they are the right fit to design your book cover and make your book a hit. Take your time to choose a designer who understands your book and its style.
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