Luxury books are magnificent stories beautifully told. The individual parts are vital – writing, editing, photography, illustration, design, and printing – but brilliance only happens when each part harmonises with the others. Discover how the magic happens. 

You may have a definite concept and deadline in mind for your luxury book. Still, it could be as yet undefined.

Perhaps your company is celebrating a significant milestone. Maybe you are launching a new product – or company – and want to explain the backstory. Or you may have designed a beautiful object that needs the gravitas of a luxury book to justify the purchase price.

Whatever your need or desire, a luxury book can help you achieve your goals. The publishing process works like this:

Commission

A luxury book starts with you and the commission. The commission begins with your expression of interest. You will receive a prompt reply suggesting further discussion. Face to face is nice, but I can accommodate telephone or Zoom meetings.

Scope of work

Based on our discussions, I develop a scope of work, which includes the subject scope, book length (word count), photography (whether you require commissioned photographs and/or studio time), printing specifications (page count, size and shape, stock quality, and any novelties you want to incorporate, like illustrations, leather binding, custom book cases, bookmarks, or gold foiling), the print quantity (it could be one book or over 10,000), and an agreed deadline. I send the scope of work to you for approval without obligation.

Quote

After we agree on the scope of work, I deliver a formal quote. At this stage, we can adjust requirements in the scope of work to suit your budget.

Writing

Once you approve the scope of work and quote, the project begins. I undertake interviews and research and the words take shape. All the while, I consult you to ensure the draft is correct.

Photography

Meanwhile, we begin photography, according to the brief contained within the scope of work. As we complete the individual photographic projects, I send samples for approval. You may wish to include existing photography. I encouraged this, as it adds depth to the story, particularly if the photographs incorporate an element of history.

Illustration

We can use illustrations to create drama and tell stories in new and different ways. Illustrations can effectively show working elements, such as cut-away views. We can also illustrate objects that don't yet exist. If you require illustrations, I add them to the scope of work. 

Editing

I edit and proofread your book, write photo captions, finalise the contents page, and add appendices.

Graphic design

When you approve the words and photographs, the book design begins, including the all-important cover. In most cases, especially if the book is ‘on sale’, I organise an identifying code (ISBN) on your behalf.

Printing

Once the book is to your liking, and hard copy proofs approved, I send it to press. Before the printer prints all the books, I examine a print-quality proof and then send it to you for the final sign-off. Once approved, the printer prints your book and you receive the finished product, ready to enjoy and share.

Get started

If you have further questions, or you're ready to begin with your own luxury book, contact David Dowsey.