There is this saying, "Don't judge a book by its cover." For the independent artist, this doesn't hold true. As a musician or band, your product is your music and that has to be a given.
For your fans, your product's appearance may not be as important, but for those who have not heard you, looks are vital! You have to look like you sound great!
I remember buying an album or CD just because the art was cool. They had to sound good if their art was so good, right? The design of your product is just as important, if not more important than the recording itself!Professional photos and a professional graphic designer or artist are key to the success of your CD.
I have been in the music business for close to 35 years. When I was young and green, I thought it was all about the art. I joined a professional touring act out of college and quickly found out why they call it the music "business." I went to "work" every day. Rehearsals, writing sessions, practice, etc. It was a job and you had to be good at it! I learned that I could have been replaced with a hundred other guitar players who would give their left arm to be in my position. Sounds like the corporate world, doesn't it? The truth is, it's like that and then some!
How you run your business and conduct yourself is vital to your success. Things like creating an image and branding are your calling card. Your logo, website, promotional materials all have to have purpose.
That's why, as an independent artist, image is everything. Don't skimp when it comes to your graphics. Hire a professional to do your artwork. Work with a professional photographer to get the look and feel you want to your photos. The way I see it, the music part is my business but I want someone who knows graphic design and art to create my vision.
As hard as it can be, let go of the reins and allow an artist creative freedom. A professional graphic artist looks at your design from an end-use perspective. They know what looks good and doesn't. Certainly discuss your vision and ideas but allow your artist to bring that to life. When I released my solo project, I had an idea, original color art and verbiage. I gave those ingredients to my graphic designer and said "Make me look good." I was more than pleased with the result and have had nothing but positive comments all the way around.
The professional graphic designers in the Design Studios at National Media Services create eye catching graphics...and do this all day every day! We'll call you prior to beginning and work personally with you to create the look you want. The majority of the samples in our catalog and on our website were created in house.
Best of all, our prices are up to HALF of what the competition charges!
Call me today to discuss your next project. Mark Tobolsky (540)635-4181 ext 241.
