The Cover Queen.
Regina Wamba
Mae i design
I was lucky enough to score an interview with The Cover Queen herself.
There isn't much this beyond talented woman can't do. As I'm sure you
know, she does everything from covers, to one of a kind photo shoots, and
she had even tried her hand at children's books. Everything she touches
turns to gold. I think it's safe to say she has The Midas touch.
Sweet and understand Regina connects with her clients on another
level. Not only as an employer to employee, but as a friend.
Understanding exactly what they were looking for. Because we all
know when it comes to writing a book it takes blood, sweat and tear.
She doesn't need much to create a masterpiece. As stated in her interview,
"One word can change everything!"
Though I have only met Regina once, and believe me it was a quick encounter. I could
she was a genuine person. Happy to meet someone who appreciated her work.
*INTERVIEW*
1. How do you start making covers?
actually fell into it by my love of reading! I went on to goodreads and started talking with people… then trying to create my own covers based off what I read.. then started talking with people who were going to self publish!!
2. When you started out what was the most difficult thing to do?
oooh… good question. Probably just being able to find work. Self publishing wasn’t as trendy then as it is now… so even though it all worked out.. it can be hard to establish your name and brand and set that level of trust up for your clients and future clients.
3. Are you a reader? If so what kind of books do you like to read?
YES i am!! I love young adult paranormal romance so much. I love love love the magic and the romance. I love a Great and Terrible Beauty, Twilight, Under Different Stars, the Hunger Games, and MANY more… but those are some favorite YA books that I’ve loved. I do love a good NA or Adult book.. but YA has always held my heart. <3
4. Writing? no. HAHA. I’m not that great at writing. Though I have several covers that I have designed for publishing houses. :D
4. Would you are have you looked into writing for a publishing house?
Writing? no. HAHA. I’m not that great at writing. Though I have several covers that I have designed for publishing houses. :D
Hmmmm.. Talking with people, engaging with their ideas, and Facebook. I have gotten so much business and repeat business from Facebook.
5. What was the most vital marking tool you used to get you to where you are today?
Hmmmm.. Talking with people, engaging with their ideas, and Facebook. I have gotten so much business and repeat business from Facebook.
6. Has photography always been a passion?
Hmmmm… I suppose it has, I just didn’t realize it as much until some of my authors told me to jump in and see what I could do!
7.Who is your biggest inspiration?
My family. They inspire me everyday to keep reaching for the stars. I also love MANY different artists and photographers out there. So much talent… it’s amazing.
8.When you are making a cover or on a photo shoot what is the inspiration or epiphany you get that helps you choose what direction you are headed in?
THAT varies widely. Usually I have a general intuitive idea of what I want the image or cover to look like…but anything could inspire me to twist it into something epic. It could be the models.. a pose, or an expression. It could be the music I’m listening to when I start designing… or just a word. ONE word could change everything. I often text words to myself because I find them inspirations. Words can evoke images… i think that is what is most powerful for me.
9. Besides custom covers and photos is there anything you are looking to add to the business?
I do a variety of different things.. I add in a lot of marketing materials and branding work…but I’ll be adding in SOOON mentoring for design, photography and both! So keep a peek out for that coming up!
10. What advice would you give to someone looking to get into your field of work?
PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE. Nothing will do you more good than to always work at your portfolio. And PLAY… make sure to find time to play. either a sketchbook, paint, reading, hanging out with family or making fake covers/manipulations. Do something for yourself.
If you are interested in anything that Regina has to offer here is how you can get in contact:
Regina Wamba
Designer & Photographer
612.568.MAEI (6234)