Tips for covers

[E.B.H]

Hi everyone!
I'm planning to start uploading my novel in another language and I'd like to create a different cover for each version so they're easily distinguishable.
Could you share any tips or recommendations on how you made your own covers? Any advice or suggestions are appreciated! Thanks!

[GiveMeThatBread]

I personally commission my covers by artists I thoroughly looked into (their portfolio and socials). Also kinda referencing covers on the premium side that perform well with audiences, seeing what Kakao releases, and staff picks.

[minamii]

I looked around on Canva to see what had the right vibe, but honestly I'm working on making my own manga style cover for my novel. I feel like it would go better with the theme of the story.
If you can afford it, it's wonderful to support artists and ask one to make a cover for you, but many people can't pay hundreds of dollars to give a polished look to a project that is just a hobby.
If cost is a limiting factor, I would recommend making your own. You don't have to have an anime character or a person on your book cover at all. Try walking around your hometown and taking photos of places that have the right vibe for your story. Horror story? Check out the local graveyards or old churches. Romance? Check out parks or just google "Romantic sights" in your area. Urban thriller? Head downtown, a seedy alley might be just the pic you need. Fantasy? Hiking trails it is! A book cover doesn't need to show every aspect of your story, it just needs to express the right theme to potential readers.

[E.B.H]

Thank you so much. The thing is, I'm an artist but I'm experiencing a bit of writer's block. I'll try your advice and look into hiking to see if it inspires me. Thanks!^^

[jwabeasley]

I drew mine:

Some of the things I focused on was strong silhouette, text that is legible even if very small, and framing the primary draw and central premise of your story in a single image.

I also recommend looking at the top novels in your genre and what their covers look like, how do they signal what they contain, and how you can use those elements to effectively show your own story.