Every author wants to make their masterpiece known and heard. They dream that it becomes an instant success, but most new authors often make the most common mistake: not investing in a solid book cover. Sure, your story might have the ability to span the world or epic fantasies, but if it doesn’t have an engaging book cover, it’s bound to remain on the shelves, waiting for someone to open it. You don’t want that.
The reason why authors show hesitancy towards a book cover is because they fear that illustrators take royalties as payment. If this is what’s stopping you from hiring an expert illustrator for a book cover, then you’re in luck. We’re going to go over the question: do book cover illustrators get royalties, and what does that mean for authors, artists, and anyone working on a book’s visual identity?
Whether you’re an author exploring book cover design services or an illustrator negotiating your next contract, this guide clears up the confusion around payments, rights, and what’s typical in the industry.
Does Book Cover Illustrators Get Royalties?
Here’s the short answer: usually not. In most cases, illustrators are paid a flat fee for their work on the cover. That’s it. No matter how many copies the book sells, their compensation doesn’t increase.
That said, there are exceptions.
In some indie or collaborative publishing models, illustrators can negotiate royalty agreements, often a percentage of book sales. This happens more frequently in:
- Children’s books (where art carries equal storytelling weight)
- Graphic novels and visual memoirs
- Projects where the illustrator and author are co-creators
Whether you’re self-publishing or working with a press, always clarify payment terms early. A good contract will state whether the illustrator receives a one-time payment, royalties, or a hybrid arrangement.
And yes, illustrators should also ask whether they retain usage rights. Keeping the rights to their artwork means they can use it in portfolios or resell prints, even after the cover goes live.
Understanding Royalties vs. Flat Fees
So what’s the difference?
Flat Fee
Most book cover illustrators are paid a one-time fee. This is agreed upon upfront, and once the work is delivered and approved, the payment is made. It’s clean, simple, and common across book cover design services.
Royalties
This is an ongoing percentage of book sales, usually ranging from 2–5% of net revenue, if granted at all. It’s rare unless the illustrator plays a core creative role or is a high-profile contributor.
Think of it this way: if you’re hiring someone just for the cover art, they’re likely being paid a fee. But if they’re shaping the visual brand of the entire book or contributing to the content, a royalty deal might come into play.
When Do Royalties Start (If They Ever Do)?
If a royalty agreement is part of the deal, the illustrator usually receives payments after the book starts generating income, often months after publication.
These royalties are paid quarterly or biannually and only once the book has recouped any initial advance (if one was paid). It’s important to note this structure resembles the model used for authors, not freelancers.
In many indie collaborations, illustrators and authors split profits equally, especially if both are contributing to the concept and marketing. But again, this must be agreed upon upfront.
Does Book Cover Illustrators Keep Rights to Their Artwork?
That depends on the contract. Some publishers require full rights transfer, meaning they own the artwork, and the illustrator can’t use it elsewhere.
Others allow the illustrator to:
- Display the artwork in their portfolio
- Retain limited reproduction rights
- License the image for prints or merchandise (in unrelated contexts)
For illustrators, it’s crucial to ask:
- Will I retain any rights to the image?
- Will I be credited on the book or metadata?
- Can I reuse the image for promotional purposes?
A thoughtful agreement benefits both parties and avoids awkward misunderstandings down the line.
Common Format and Specs Book Cover Files Should Follow
While we’re on the topic of cover, it’s probably a good time to also answer some other questions regarding book cover and format, especially if you’re going the self-publishing route on Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP). If you’re working with a designer or uploading your own art to KDP, technical specs matter. Here are the basics:
1. What format does KDP use for book covers?
- PDF with embedded fonts and bleed for print
- JPEG or TIFF (300 dpi, RGB) for eBooks
2. What is the best format for book cover?
For professional use: PDF for print, JPEG for digital, always at 300 dpi
3. What size should a book cover design should be?
- Depends on the trim size and page count
- For a 6” x 9” book with 300 pages, the full cover (including spine and bleed) is typically around 12.52” x 9.25”
A professional designer can calculate the exact dimensions using Amazon’s template tools or similar services. This is another reason why working with someone who understands platform-specific requirements can save major headaches.
How Do You Find a Good Illustrator or Designer?
Suppose you’re wondering how to find someone to design a book cover; start by looking at portfolios in your genre. Check Reedsy, Behance, or freelance marketplaces like Fiverr Pro (not the basic tier).
Make sure the artist has experience working with books, not just illustrations. A great book cover balances artwork, typography, and layout to fit the genre and grab attention. That’s what makes a book cover stand out.
Working with a team like Wright Book Associates gives you access to vetted, experienced cover professionals who understand the full publishing process, from layout to licensing.
Final Note
So, do book cover illustrators get royalties? In most cases, no. They’re paid once and walk away. But in the right creative partnership, royalties can be negotiated, especially if the illustrator plays a major role in the book’s concept or sales potential.
Whether you’re an author commissioning a cover or an artist planning your next contract, always clarify terms. A well-designed cover can change a book’s trajectory, but a fair, transparent working relationship changes everything.
And if you’re unsure where to start or want your book to look professionally polished from cover to copyright page, Wright Book Associates is here to help.
Frequently Asked Question
Do illustrators usually earn royalties from book covers?
No. Most are paid a flat fee for their work unless a royalty agreement is negotiated upfront.
How much do illustrators typically charge for book covers?
Rates range from £200 to £2,000+ depending on experience, complexity, and rights. Custom illustration costs more than stock-based designs. However, these rates may vary depending on project scope, urgency and overall difficulty. Get in touch with our illustrators for a more accurate price.
Can artists ask for royalties instead of a flat fee?
Yes, especially in indie or collaborative publishing. But it’s less common and must be clearly outlined in the contract.
Are illustrators credited on the cover or interior?
Sometimes, but not always. If it matters to you, ask in advance and make sure it’s part of the agreement.