Designing a Book Cover From Initial Concept to Final Product - Part 1

Part 1: The Conversation and The Sketch.

Last week I had the pleasure to begin a conversation with author Heather Leah Smith on the cover design for her upcoming book, The Corporate Madonna (working title). This initial conversation is perhaps the most important one we’ll have pertaining to her cover design, because it is my first impression of her vision of the book, just as the cover will often serve as the first impression potential readers will have of her brand.

During this conversation I like to listen to the author talk about their project so I can get a solid sense of the ideas and emotions the author is capturing in their work. This bit of information is often times what carries me through to the initial concept. While the author talks, I simply listen and sketch. I sketch whatever comes to mind as we move through the conversation.

As for questions… I generally only ask a few in this first meeting. I like to ask the usual regarding target audience, colors, themes or ideas the author may already have regarding the cover. I take note of the answers on my sketch pad, and take them into consideration for the initial concept, but I feel the most important part of the conversation comes more from the free form thought process that comes as the author talks freely about the book.

Below is my sketch from my conversation with Heather Leah Smith. Stay tuned to see the next step in this cover design project.

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