The task of redesigning the book cover for Corinne’s poetry collection, The Rings of Nature, was an exciting opportunity to breathe new life into the visual representation of her book. The existing cover, though depicting a scenic outdoor landscape, lacked the visual impact needed to capture the essence of Corinne’s poetry. The goal was to create a striking new cover that would resonate and entice readers to download the author’s book.
Assessing the Existing Cover
The initial cover showcased an outdoor wooded area with evergreens, water, and a reflective rainbow – a serene yet subtle portrayal. It was evident that both the photograph and typography required a revamp.
Analyzing Competitor Book Covers:
Examining competitors’ book covers identified a diverse array of designs, ranging from photographic elements to illustrations and typographic styles. Corinne shared her preferences, referencing captivating covers such as The Lantern Boats; Serenity; and Where the Dead Pause and the Japanese Say Goodbye.(a gorgeous cover!) The spectrum of sans-serif, serif, script, and stylized handwriting in these covers provided inspiration for the creative process.
Hunting for the Perfect Image
To capture the spirit of “rings in nature,” the search for images led to a variety of visual elements such as tree rings, rainbows, circular patterns, and more. The most intriguing image was a close-up of curly ferns, their ends elegantly curled in a spiral. The vibrant green hues, freshness, and the representation of nature made this image a perfect fit for Corinne’s poetry.
Creative Presentation and Collaboration
Two cover layout options were presented – one featuring tree rings and the other showcasing the fern photo– allowed for a collaborative decision-making process. We both agreed: the fern was curious, interesting, and conveyed the attitude of Corinne’s poems. I expanded the top of the photo so the title and subtitle would comfortably fit and used a dark green sans-serif typeface for optimal readability, especially in thumbnail views.
The Final Result
The redesign of The Rings of Nature met Corinne’s approval and vision. The cover not only captivates with its fern imagery but also promises readers a transformative journey within. This successfully designed cover serves as a visual ambassador, inviting readers to explore this poetry collection.
Thanks for reading.
