From Stock Images to AI-Generated Artwork
Three book cover concepts created with stock images were presented to a first-time author. However, he was not satisfied with the initial designs. After reviewing the layouts, he envisioned a more specific concept. I directed him to several stock image websites to search for suitable visuals. Unfortunately, he couldn’t find an image that matched his vision.
Without success from stock images, the author and his team turned to AI tools to generate custom illustrations.
Testing the AI Images with a Survey
Using the AI-generated images, the author conducted a survey with his street team (a group of volunteers who promote a product, event, artist, or public figure through word-of-mouth advertising). In his message, he wrote:
“I ask for 30 seconds of your time. Please check these three options for the book cover. One of these will be selected.”
The survey results favored an image generated by Midjourney. While all three options (all AI generated) looked great as 3D mockups on screen, none were optimized for high-quality book production.
Was the Image High Resolution?
I requested the highest-quality file available from the author and his team. They provided a large .png file, but it was only 72 dpi (dots per inch). Book covers require images with a resolution of 300 dpi. When I resampled the image to the necessary resolution, it measured only 4×6 inches—far too small for a 6×9 inch hardcover book.
You might ask, why does this matter?
Image Dimensions Didn’t Fit
Hardcover books use thick, rigid material and require a .75-inch bleed on all sides to wrap the cover properly. The AI-generated illustration lacked sufficient bleed, and the overall width was too narrow. The image proportions did not align with the required cover dimensions. Additionally, there wasn’t enough space at the top for the title and subtitle, and the image was cropped too tightly overall.
The Solution: Photoshop to the Rescue
Thankfully, Photoshop’s Generative Fill feature came to the rescue. With precise dimensions and bleed requirements in mind, I expanded the illustration’s right and left sides and extended the top to create a seamless dark area designated for the title and subtitle. The bottom was adjusted to ensure adequate space for the author’s name.
Fortunately, the image was relatively easy to modify, and the Generative Fill feature worked like magic.
Final Production
Once the illustration was adjusted, I placed it into my InDesign template. I added the title, subtitle, and author’s name. On the back cover, I included the book description, an endorsement, the genre, the author’s website, and the barcode.
The author loved the final design and quickly approved it.
A Word of Caution
Not all AI-generated images are high resolution, and not all will fit your book’s dimensions. Hiring a professional designer with experience in Photoshop and book production is essential.
I’m here to help bring your book cover vision to life!
