Artwork and photos
Do-It-Yourself CD Cover Design
Artwork and photos
Most bands or solo artists will choose to put a photo of themselves on the cover of their CD. However, some styles of music (electronic, instrumental) are better suited to a piece of artwork or a simple typographical treatment of the title. If you choose to use artwork for the cover, you can include a photo of yourself in the sleeve insert or traycard. Wherever you choose to place the photo, it's better to use a crisp, studio-quality shot rather than a blurry snapshot from your latest gig. Getting the right photo doesn't have to be expensive. You probably have at least one photographer in your group of friends who would jump at the chance to expand their portfolio. Ask them if they'd be willing to take both indoor and outdoor shots in a variety of locations. Even if they agree to do the shoot for free, offer to pay for film and prints.
If you use artwork for the cover, it should be both original and appropriate for your sound. You may already know someone who is willing to create something for you; it not, try contacting a fine arts college in your community and ask if one of their students would like to contribute their talents to your project.
Once you've chosen an artist, remember that the medium is as important as the subject. Watercolor, pencil sketches, photography, digital collage, acrylic and oil painting are just a few of your options. Find out what media the artist is comfortable in and ask them to listen to your music before they begin. If possible, ask them to work on a square-shaped canvas as a CD cover is approximately 4.75" square.
Alternately, you may want to use a piece of artwork that has already been produced. Some artists may charge you a small licensing fee to use their work on your cover; others will expect you to buy the painting outright. Be sure to discuss their terms before making a commitment.