Friday, February 3, 2023

For my IWSG post I'm answering a question about how I manage to get any book covers I may need.


On Wednesday, Alex wrote a comment on the blog saying (more or less), "Did Insecure Writer's Support Group sneak up on you?" Yes, yes it did. I had a lot on my mind this week. Most of it is the colonoscopy I had on Thursday. But with that behind me (pun intended), and getting an all clear from the doctor, my stress level is going back down to normal. I don't like doctors, medical procedures, etc., and this is/was my first colonoscopy, so it was taking up a lot of brain space. My co-workers told me, "Think of it as a spa day..." But...I never could get there mentally. It was a miserable experience.

Anyway, as such, I missed my IWSG Wednesday post. So, I'm posting on Friday instead. This way it will stay up all weekend. But before I get around to answering the question, here is a little bit about the IWSG from the sign-up page, which you can join HERE.

What is the purpose of the IWSG?: It is to share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds.

When does the IWSG post:? The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer - aim for a dozen new people each time - and return comments.

The Twitter handle is @TheIWSG and the hashtag everyone uses is #IWSG.

The awesome co-hosts for the February 1 posting of the IWSG are Jacqui Murray, Ronel Janse van Vuuren, Pat Garcia, and Gwen Gardner!

Every month, the IWSG announces a question that members can answer in their IWSG post. These questions may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience or story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you are struggling with something to say.

Remember, the question is optional!

February 1 question - If you are an Indie author, do you make your own covers or purchase them? If you publish traditionally, how much input do you have about what goes on your cover?

So, I'm an independent author. And I'd rather make my own cover than I would in paying for another person to make it for me. Additionally, I'm pretty solid at photoshop, which has allowed me to make some really great illustrations as of late. When combined with what A.I. art is doing these days, I think I could make an entirely original art piece that fit exactly what I needed without too much trouble. And that's essentially what I will do in the future if I get around to publishing anything. It's a weird time to be alive, because doing things creatively has never been easier.

Thanks for visiting my blog and have a good weekend.

4 comments:

  1. Yeah, that first one when you turn fifty really does a number on your brain.
    Weren't you originally with a small publisher?
    Artistic talent combined with AI could so some amazing stuff.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. @Alex: First question: "First one...?" How many colonoscopies have you had sir? LOL good grief.
      Second question: I was, but they went out of business two years ago.

      Delete
  2. They say you're supposed to get a colonoscopy starting at 45 now so I'm supposed to get one sometime but of course my doctor screwed it all up.

    Anyway, I liked your covers. It'd be nice if I had any skill at drawing or Photoshop. Another author was gobsmacked when I said I put mine together in PowerPoint. "No, you have to use [some program]!" But I've used PowerPoint for almost 30 years so I know that a lot better than I'd know some other thing.

    I wouldn't really use AI art for people yet but backgrounds it can be more useful.

    ReplyDelete
  3. It's amazing what one can do on one's own if you have the know how. You do have artistic talent, so you can get away with doing your own covers. I hope you do get around to it eventually.

    ReplyDelete