For any writer who wants to be an author, there’s always a dilemma of how to get the book he has so painstakingly typedto be converted-into print or into an e-book.
Now, more than ever, there are more opportunities to write, share or publish a story. Interacting with audience has become easier.
You have to first understand the options that each one provides- their advantages and disadvantages, to arrive at a decision what you want to opt for-self-publishing or traditional.
Traditional publishing-pros and cons
In this model, to get to the publisher- the gateway to your audience, you’ll have to scout for an agent. If luck favours you heavily, only then you will be signed on. And receive royalties to the tune of about a meagre 7% to max 15%on the sales of your books.
Pros
- The publisher takes care of everything.
- You pay nothing.
- Your book will find a place in physical bookstores.
- It has an undertone of prestige.
Cons
- It is very time consuming; that is excluding the time you will require to be approved by them.
- Authors have limited creative control. You would not have complete control over the creative aspects of your book, such as its title, its cover design, and how it is edited.
- Publisher’s contracts are complicated that favours the publisher, of course! You have a price to pay for using their prestigious name.
- Royalty received are peanuts.
Self-publishing, pros and cons
Pros
- Publishing time is much lesser- a maximum of few weeks. You don’t require any agent.
- First-time writers’ books can see the light of the day.
- Authors have more creative control over their books. You can hire professional editing services and book designers, London such as White Magic Studios who will understand& create your vision and help in making decisions for your book. You have all the rights to your book intact.
- Higher margins are the best part of self-publishing. You will receive all the royalty. Hence for each book you sell, you earn alone.
- Support in marketing of books through creative book covers, book/author website & trailers.
- As technology has improved, self-published authors now have access to high-quality printing and book-distribution networks similar to traditionally published authors. You will have no expenses of a ware house because it’s print on demand.
- If your book is time-specific, then your purpose will be served because it will reach the market very soon.
Cons
- You will have to pay for the professional services such as book layouts, editing, illustrations, etc. It’s however advisable that you take the whole package offer. Employ book illustration agency for attractive illustrations.
While many writers dream of being traditionally published, it’s important to remember that a traditional publishing deal doesn’t always equate to financial success.
Self-published author’s incomes are the only incomes on the rise-many surveys report. As the publishing landscape continues to change, more and more traditionally published authors are choosing to self-publish instead—taking back control of their books, their royalties, and ultimately, their livelihoods.