Book Design Process
Ubel Design makes the design process a streamlined one for clients while still taking an individualized approach to every publication. Whether it is a museum exhibition catalog or a photography collection book, these steps make the project simple for book publishing clients.
Creation
Book topics, goals, objectives, targeted readers, book size and sales locations for the book are identified by book designer Lynette Ubel and the client. Defining the target audience helps Lynette conceptualize the jacket and the overall layout of the book pages to attract more potential buyers. Once the vision for the book is discussed, the book designer asks clients to submit by mail:
- Laser copies of each image to be included in the book
- Laser printout of book text with notes to indicate if certain images must be placed next to specific text
- DVD(s) containing high-resolution image files (300dpi)
- DVD(s) of final text documents in Microsoft Word format
Telephone conversations between the book designer, artists and photographers will also occur. With this process, the book designer becomes better acquainted with the client's desired vision to ensure the overall design is an extension of their work and the artistry portrayed within the fine art book. Next, a sample layout by the book designer is created consisting of:
- A jacket cover
- Book title pages, colophon and table of contents
- 2-3 interior spreads indicative of how photos, text, page numbers and other visual elements will appear.
Review & Approve
Electronic PDF files containing all these design elements are then sent to the client by e-mail for comments and changes. Agreed upon changes will be made by the book designer. Once the coffee table book, sports book, photography collection book or museum exhibition catalog is approved, layout for every page within the book begins. After the book designer completes the book, it is submitted by e-mail to the client via PDF for proofing and final comments. Once files are ap- proved by the client:
- Color lasers and all files are sent to the client's publisher or printer of choice for production to begin.
- Press proofs of the book will be sent to the book designer. After review by the book designer, press proofs are sent on to the client for final sign-off.
- Client then sends approved proofs back to the printer. At that time, delivery date and location are confirmed.