Today I am trying something new, I have asked cover artist, Regina Wamba of Mae I Design and Photography, to do an interview here on The Cover Contessa. I thought it would be interesting to get the perspective of someone who creates all those beautiful covers that draw us to the books we read.
Do you know of Regina's BEAUTIFUL covers? Well, let me show you a few (you can click on the picture to take you to the link on Goodreads and read about the book):
Gorgeous, right? So let's hear a bit of what Regina has to say, shall we?
Tell us a little about yourself and your training as an artist.
Well…hmm about me. Let's see… I am an artist, I have been since I could remember. I had a sketch pad everywhere I went. :D I am a mother to three beautiful babies. A 6, 3 and 1 year old! I love history, books, chocolate, coffee and travel. I have been married 8 years to the best hubby ever and I have the most supportive, loving friends and family ever. Thank you!!
How did you get into the business of creating covers?
This happened with my love of books.. Contacted an author.. the rest is history (though I do have graphic design training).
Did you always want to be a cover artist?
Haha. Never even thought about it! I always loved reading, but it didn't "hit me" that I could do that until after exploring goodreads and befriending some authors. :D
Why do you think authors want to use your designs?
I think (correct me if I'm wrong my authors) it's because I'm professional and creative. I absorb as much as I can of a story before designing to make sure I get the right feel across the board. I also strive for timely turnarounds and high customer satisfaction.
Where do your design inspiration for covers come from?
A lot comes from authors.. but a lot comes from reading, music, movies and random daydreaming. :D
Do you have a favorite cover? Can you show it to us?
I don't! hahah.. I can't choose.. so I will leave this up to you. Feel free to share your favorites.
Well since you asked, here are two of my favorites!
When designing a cover, who is your intended audience?
This all depends on the author and their intended audience. :D
Do you have a favorite cover designer, one that inspired you, perhaps?
Uhm… there are lots and lots of people who inspire me. A lot of photographers, artists and manipulators. It's hard to narrow it down. Any one that has epic photography skills or design skills is alright in my book. :D
Do you have or do other activities that involve your art?
Photography. Whenever I can find time. Painting, drawing, reading. :D
What is the hardest part about creating a cover?
Sometimes it's the research for the right photo. Pulling the vision you have in your head down to paper.. it can be time consuming. That and the typography. Getting the titling right and to make it FEEL like what's inside is a difficult task! :/
When creating a cover, do you read the author's work first to get a feel or do they just give you information and you go with it?
I wish I had time to read everyones work. But instead I ask for detailed description, visions, settings or maybe a descriptive chapter or two. :D
What are you working on now?
Editing some of my photos. :D
Thanks for having me!
Before you go, I want to share just a few more covers with you so you can see how awesome Regina's work is!
I have to tell you that I am totally in awe of Regina's work!
Here are a few places you can stalk her!
Twitter: @reginawamba
Pinterest: Mae I Design
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13127675-forget-me-not
I love your work! Covers are your first look into the author's work. I have purchased many books based on the cover alone.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for having me!! YAY! I am excited. :D
ReplyDeleteTina, that is so great! I love that you love my work! It's why I keep going! <3