Ashton M. Smith
  • Book Covers
  • Freelance Inquiries
  • About

Need a designer? Look no further.

I specialize in creating professional and eye-catching book covers that are essential for your book's success. A compelling design is a critical marketing asset, and I'm dedicated to providing you with a cover that not only looks fantastic but also effectively attracts readers and helps your book achieve its full potential.​
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Hear what past clients have to say:

"Working with Ashton has been nothing short of a cakewalk! Her process was clear, straightforward, and easy to follow. Not only was she highly professional and well-versed in her field and skill, she was also kind, patient, helpful, and gracious to a fault with this first time indie author."
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–C. J. Arteaga, author of The Sky Child
"It's been wonderful working with Ashton, I would definitely recommend her! She was able to do better than read my mind after I provided the brief and was very open to suggestions along the way. She really made my vision for my book come to life!"
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–E. C. Taylor, author of Speak with the Dead
"Working with Ashton was one of the best decisions I made in the self-publishing process. It's such a relief to work with someone that not only listens to your wishes, but turns them into something stunning! The process was so much easier than I anticipated and I credit that entirely to Ashton for not only being talented, but conscientious and professional."
​–Jenni Mojaverian​, author of Hard Launch
"Ashton is incredibly sweet and especially encouraging to the projects of self-published authors! It was an absolute joy to work with her, and her design services are so high quality, I was truly pleased with my result."
–Tehya Metzinger, author of All Dears May Die
"I've never received so many compliments about a cover before."
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–Kylie Chan, author of The Serpent Princess
"What an experience! Not only was the knowledge and know-how there, as a newbie author, I felt so safe in Ashton’s hands. She kept me up to date on every single step and I trusted her judgment when I simply couldn’t decide on a few points. I also felt she has true enthusiasm for the work she’s doing and I honestly can’t wait to work with her again."
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–Sarah McVeigh, author of Nature's Design

Frequently Asked Questions

What is your design process?
My process begins with a detailed intake form that you’ll complete to help me understand your book, target audience, and design preferences. From there, I put together a concept document with 2 to 3 initial design options for you to choose from. We then refine your chosen concept through revisions until you're completely satisfied with the final design.
How long does the cover design process usually take?
The timeline can vary depending on the project's complexity and the number of revisions required. However, a typical project from initial consultation to final file delivery can take approximately 5 weeks. I'll provide a more specific timeline after discussing your project. Typically, we tackle the concepting phase the week before the month starts, and then we spend four full weeks on the design and revision stages.
What file formats will I receive for the final cover design?
You will receive high-resolution, print-ready PDF files for the full cover (front, spine, and back), as well as a JPG file of the front cover optimized for online use (e.g., ebook platforms, social media). Most authors work with IngramSpark or Kindle Direct Publishing to distribute their works, and I will create your files in accordance with their uploading standards.
Will I own the copyright to the final cover design?
Yes, upon final payment, you will have full rights to use the finalized cover design for your book and its promotion. See section 6.2 in the project contract here: “Upon final payment, the Client will receive all final file types and the right to display the graphics wherever the Client sees fit. The Client is granted full rights to do with the graphics as they please.”
What information do you need from me to get started?
To begin the design process, I'll need your book title, subtitle, author name, synopsis, genre, target audience, any specific design ideas or preferences you have, and the trim size and page count (if available for print covers). Feel free to check out my guide, The Complete Cover Prep Checklist, if you’d like a place to gather all this information before submitting your inquiry.
How much does a book cover design cost?
My pricing varies depending on the complexity of the project, the scope of work involved, and the format(s) you would like your cover created in. Please contact me below with details about your book for a personalized quote.
How many rounds of revisions are included in your design process?
My design process typically includes 2 rounds of revisions (3 total drafts) to ensure we arrive at a design you love. Any additional revisions beyond this may be subject to an additional fee, which we would discuss if the project requires it.
Do you use AI in your design process?
I use Adobe’s Generative AI feature exclusively for minor adjustments to photo-based covers, such as removing elements or extending the edges of an image. This tool allows me to make these edits more efficiently and cleanly than manual methods. However, I do not use any form of AI to generate full photos, illustrations, or any design elements.
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  • Book Covers
  • Freelance Inquiries
  • About