Creating Covers

Now that I've discussed what not to put on a cover I'm going to show you what I think makes a good cover and what places I go to make one.

1. Potter-fy it
Might seem obvious but you'd be surprised. I personally think if you're going to write some Potter fan fiction you need a cover that's going to reflect that. Whether that's through the font or an image you're going to want to give an indication to your readers what they're about to see, before they even come across the summary.

2. Keep it simple

Just like makeup (no I'm not dragging anyone here) you can either go bold on the lips and keep the eyes simple or go bold on the eyes and keep the lips neutral; either choose to have a bold picture or have the text stand out more, one should do just fine. Don't overwhelm your audience!

As you can see the text is the element that takes our attention and yet Tonks is still there subtly. Plus, I think we've got a good idea as to who this story is about!

3. Playing with Font
Don't just stick to one font if you want to create a different effect.
Of course you can if you want to but sometimes using two different fonts that work well together can look quite fun!

For the 'Of' on this cover I used a different font as it's on a different line and fits in with the swirly font of the background. I think if I was going to re-do this cover I'd find a way to ensure Sirius didn't juxtapose too much on that background, it feels like he's too set apart.

How to Make a Cover
Where to go and how to do it

I've dabbled in many sites when it comes to creating covers and a lot of the time I don't just stick to one. Below are some I've used in the past and some I haven't that I've heard are quite useful depending on your preference.

1. Phone a Friend
If you really don't want to create a cover for yourself and know someone who's in tune with your aesthetic go and get some help. There are many wattpadders who like to make covers and I'm sure will be more than happy to help you out! Just remember to credit them, it's only fair.

2. Photoshop
I know very little about photoshop except that you have to pay for it. I've personally only used it once, so if that's the site you want to use go for it. There are plenty of videos on YouTube to help you out but I found it quite complicated. The sites I will go onto suggest are more user friendly.

3. Procreate — app
If you have a phone, or better yet, some form of tablet I highly recommend the Procreate app. It's basically simplified photoshop and you can add imported text over a cover. You do have to pay for this but I believe it's only a couple of pounds (or dollars) and is very much worth the money!

4. Picmonkey
This website is great for adding small touchups to pictures. Whether you want to change  someone's eye colour or darken their eyelashes this is the place to go! They also offer a variety of fonts in different colours and is very user friendly. Also another paid site but once upon a time it was free.

5. Images
If you're looking for an image for your cover a quick google search will unearth many screenshots from the Potter films to help you along your way. Alternatively you could try:
- Pinterest
- Instagram
- Tumblr

The best thing I can recommend though is experimenting. Trying a filter or rearranging the text on your cover can make all the difference!