FAQ

Bespoke Covers and Internal Layouts for Indie Authors and Small Publishers

How long does a cover/internal layout take?

A rough guide is 7-14 days. More complex covers can take longer.

Layouts take a little longer. Allow 14-28 days. The layout process involves going through the text and adjusting everything, so it fits just right.

What are stock images?

Stock images are images submitted to libraries by photographers and illustrators. I usually source my images from Adobe Stock.

Are there limitations to the use of stock images?

I use Adobe’s standard license. This allows for unlimited electronic use and a maximum of 500,000 printed copies. You cannot use stock images under this license for mechanise, however I can upgrade to an extended license if you require it. (cost applies). There are also restrictions on how images are used—for example, you may not use images to be considered derogatory to the model or artist. This may apply to the contents of the book and the covers. With this in mind, I advise against using recognisable faces on covers.

Can you hand illustrate my cover?

No. This is not something I do. I can point you toward some talented illustrators if necessary.

Do I have to pay a deposit?

I ask for a 25% booking fee, 25% on commencement and 50% on completion.

What do you need from me?

A detailed synopsis of your book is a great starting point. An idea of covers you like or reflect the mood of your book. We’ll have plenty of discussion as we work up the concepts.

I’ll also need your blurb, taglines and any quotes, awards or additional details you want featured.

If you are not opting for a layout package, I’ll need to know the total page length of your book, including front and back matter.

How many revisions will you make?

All packages include three official revisions, but I’ll keep tinkering until you’re happy. If I feel they’re reworking the cover away from the agreed concept, I may have to charge you for additional work.

My book is not done yet. Can you still do the cover?

Absolutely. Once you have the final page count and we can adjust it.

I’m writing a series. Do I get a discount on subsequent books?

For sure! I love working on book series as we have established branding. Providing there are no changes, you’ll save 20% on each subsequent book.

This also applies to authors with a consistent branding book to book, so the same layout of author name and title.

Returning customers will receive a 10% loyalty discount.

Why are your prices so cheap?

I want to charge a fair price and give authors the best value I can. I’m not ruling out future increases as costs have a tendency to increase, but I’ll be sticking to my author focused pricing model.

What files will I receive?

Kindle requires a JPG and KDP paperbacks require Print Ready PDFs. I’ll also supply PNGs for ease of use on social media.

I do not supply Photoshop source files or the original images.

Can you help with mockups and publicity posters?

Yes! You get a book flyer free with every package and I can produce additional materials for a little as £10.

I want to buy a premade, but I’m writing a series.

No problem. The premade will be yours, customised to your requirements. I’ll use this as the basis for subsequent books. You’ll also qualify for the series discount.

How long is your waiting list?

I can usually start work within a week or two of booking. I never intend to have a waiting list exceeding three months. If I feel too much work is coming in, I’ll suspend bookings until capacity becomes available.

However, if you want to book in advance. I will take bookings up to 6 months in advance.

How many concepts do you provide me with?

I’ll usually do 2 concepts. Sometimes I’ll do more! It depends on how many ideas I have. Some covers never require an alternate concept.

Can I supply my own images?

Yes, providing you can supply evidence, they are licensed from a library or individual.

Can I choose my own images and fonts?

Definitely. I love it when authors do this. I’ll provide you with links to a library; pick the images you like and send me the catalogue numbers.

Are there any covers you don’t do?

I will only turn down commissions where I don’t feel I can do justice to the concept or the author’s expectations exceed what can be reasonably achieved with stock images. I reserve the right to turn down covers where I do not feel comfortable with the books subject matter or concept.

Are there any areas you specialise in?

I love science fiction, horror, supernatural and all flavours of Fantasy. Steampunk and thrillers are great fun too.

Are there limitations to what you can do with stock photography?

Compositing images is a balance between delivering what the client has asked for with what looks realistic. If I believe something is not possible, I will advise you well in advance.

Many authors are keen to represent certain scenes or characters from their books, however, there may not be base images to replicate the book in this manner. If your book features a skateboarding unicorn with a machine gun, I may struggle to find such an image to work from.

In cases like this, I’d advise a concept that evokes the feel of the book, rather than trying to replicate it.

How long have you been doing covers?

I started with my own covers in 2018. I expanded to work with author friends in 2020-21. I started working in internal layout in 2022.