Journal Cover Illustration Parameters

Requests

Requests should be made through Chad Smith at csmith0@umd.edu. Please include journal requirements (size, format, etc), timeline, examples of the specific journal, article and abstract, associated imagery, and any ideation that has already been developed.

At this time, the Research Development Office is able to accommodate roughly 6-10 journal illustrations per year.  A number of factors go into accepting requests, including: other cover illustration status, ongoing projects, how many slots individual clients have already used within the quota, journal status, etc. There is no cost to individuals or labs for the labor associated with the illustration. Some costs for assets may be attributed to the lab (see below).

Timelines

Four weeks is a preferred notice of a request for design support. Journals often do not provide much notice and should in turn be made as soon as practicable. Each illustration has unique requirements and we strive to achieve the best outcome in the available time. 

Note: An initial meeting is required to understand the project, ideas, and what is achievable in the timeframe. Delayed communication beyond 7 days will result in the designer moving onto a different project.  A return to the cover design is not guaranteed thereafter.

Methods

Various software can be used and is selected based on the project and what resources can be made available. An effort should be made to convert 3d models to: .mb, .ma, .fbx, or .stl. Often models/assets may need to be purchased to expedite the illustration. Costs may be split with the Division of Research in some instances. In most scenarios costs of assets should not exceed $200. Software can include but is not limited to:

• Autodesk Maya
• Autodesk Arnold
• Adobe Illustrator
• Adobe Photoshop

Journals

All journal cover opportunities will be considered. Questions about the journal reach, its prestige, frequency of publication may be posed to the PI as part of the information gathering process to determine fit/suitability for journal design requests. 

Delivery

Delivery will be to the specifications of the journal in terms of size, colorspace, and format (.jpg, .png, .tif, .pdf, .psd). Raw files will not be shared. Edits after delivery and prior to submission are strongly discouraged.

Sample Illustrations