Okay, maybe it's not bestselling yet. Or even out yet. But I'm a positive thinker, and things are well underway for my sequel Torch Ginger's launch in March.
I'm married to a professional photographer, Renaissance Man, and he took the orchid photos that were used by designer Monica Gurevich of Julie Metz Design to develop my outstanding Blood Orchids cover. I plan to keep this dynamic team going through subsequent covers, because a book IS judged by its cover–therefore, mine are going to be awesome.
Our family set out for a bit of post-Christmas vacation on the Hana Coast, and stopped at the Keanae Arboretum to take photos of the biggest, most beautiful torch gingers we could find–and contrary to popular belief, these unique flowers aren't growing on every streetcorner. (Click on any of the below images for full size)
It was an overcast day, threatening rain. Of course we had rubber slippers on and no umbrellas or other raingear. We employed a two-person “flower propping” team: one person holding the blossom in position, while another family member held a black drape up behind it and Mike gave direction (mostly, “A little to the left. Hold that flower still! No laughing!”)
Bugs crawled around. I had a squirt bottle and blew them off. Mud migrated. Tourists stared. And then the rain started up. This proved too much for our intrepid photography team in the end, and we ran for the cars as the heavens opened up above us.
But I think we “got the shot.” Not only that, no flowers were injured during this event.
LOVE your coverart!!! I agree with you 100 percent~ the cover page has to “wow” otherwise, no one will bother to look at it. I had one of my friend’s daughter do mine. She is a wonderful photographer but also does beautiful digital work. She knows that I want her to do all my cover pages. And for you to not only have beautiful work done, but for it to be a family project as well? Truly awesome. You get the family time AND great work! Congrats!!
The family support part was priceless!
Wow! Your cover just pops off the page!
You know I always thought I judge a book by it’s review but not true. I do tend to pick up books by their cover when I’ve not read the review only because I was drawn to it.
Beautiful photography.
It’s a subtle thing but we really do move to something visual that catches the eye.
I am fortunate enough in that my sister is a professional photographer. My 1st book was easy to figure the cover for. Searching for My Wand features a painting I did myself. But the next book will be trickier and no doubt involve several photos. I know my sister wiil be able to provide them, but I still have to decide on what they should be!
It’s tough to get just the right combination. I wish you luck!
Beautiful! I’m currently in the process of teaching my three-year-old to be my photographer. Taking some time, but I think he’s already better than me. Tell your hubby great pic. 🙂
Thanks for popping in and sharing that!
Hi! I just found your blog. And this post has great timing! Taking your own pics for your book is awesome! Thanks!
Fantastic! Hope it sparks an idea for you!