How to create your own Album Art

Artwork for music is important - it’s been around ever since records have had printed sleeves. Now musicians use artwork to brand themselves and their individual tunes.

The good news is that it’s never been easier to create your own artwork. Whether you choose to go for a simple photograph, or use some design tools - or even use an AI like Midjourney or Dall E - you can find a way of creating imagery based on your own personal style and what you feel best represents your music.

First things first, brainstorm - and be sure to think outside the box. Consider using unique colors, shapes, and patterns that accurately reflect the sound and feel of your music. Additionally, try to avoid using clichéd images or artwork that has been used countless times before. Be sure to tap into your creativity. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques and mediums until you find something that looks and feels right. Once you do this groundwork, you can move onto the next step to produce something professional. 

Already have your artwork? Use Rotor to animate your still to the beat of your tune - a great way to share or preview your track around its release. Check out this short tutorial on how to get started.

Here are some more tips to help you create artwork for your release:

1. Use High-Quality Images

If you choose to use an existing image or a photograph, one of the most important things to consider is the quality of the images you use. Be sure to use high-resolution images that accurately reflect the mood and feel of your music. Remember if you choose not to buy an image from a stock library that it’s important to make sure your artwork is original. Not only will this help you stand out from the rest, but it will also avoid any legal issues down the road. 

Image above is used under a Creative Commons license, sourced using Unsplash

2. Leverage Stock Footage

Stock image libraries are better value than ever these days - there is an insane collection of existing art out there so you can easily avoid using generic stock photos (these can make your artwork look unoriginal and cheap). You could easily crop and filter a still to give it that look you need. Some great stock image sites are: Unsplash, Pixabay and Freeimages.

3. Work With a Professional Graphic Designer

If you’re not confident in your own ability to create amazing artwork for your music release, consider working with a professional graphic designer. A designer will be able to help you bring your vision to life and create artwork that accurately reflects the sound and feel of your music. Find a great designer in marketplaces such as fiverr.com

4. Spend some time on the typefaces you use

Your artwork will also need some text - make sure you use a font that is easily readable, and that goes with the style of your artwork. Comic Sans is not going to cut it here! 

5. Use simple design software

There are plenty of simple design software programs out there that even someone with no design experience can use to create amazing artwork. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you’ll be surprised at what you’re capable of creating. Some free image editing tools are GIMP, Inkscape and Adobe Photoshop Express. Online services such as Canva provide very easy approaches to create high quality design work.

6. Use Simple Elements

When it comes to creating artwork for your music release, sometimes less is more. Try to use simple elements that accurately reflect the sound and feel of your music. Overcomplicating your artwork can make it look busy and cluttered. 

7. Brainstorm Ideas With Others

If you’re struggling to come up with ideas for your artwork, consider brainstorming with friends or family members. Getting input from others can help you come up with ideas you may not have thought of on your own. 

8. Take Your Time

Don’t rush the process of creating artwork for your music release. This is an important part of the release process and it’s important to take your time to create something you’re truly happy with.

9. Have Fun!

Creating artwork for your music release should be fun! If you’re not enjoying the process, it will show in your final product. Experiment with different ideas and techniques until you find something you’re happy with.

10. Get Feedback From Others

Once you’ve created your artwork, it’s important to get feedback from others. Ask friends and family members for their honest opinion. If you’re working with a professional graphic designer, be sure to get their feedback as well. Getting feedback from others will help you make any necessary changes to your artwork before you release it to the public.