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What I find funny is that Mason probably paid thousands for the covers
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I certainly don't know what he paid, but I know the freelance rates for a number of graphic designers who do work for large and small companies, and none of them would make "thousands" for a book cover. Most professional designers would be happy to get $300 for the type of work involved here (a few hours work), not to mention that they get a set of books thrown in (hundreds of dollars of value).
When it comes to designing something very outrageous and/or detailed, sure, the money would be more -- but these type of books are relatively basic in comparison.
Barron Vangor Toth
www.BarronVangorToth.com