services explained :: cd/dvd packaging
Below is a step by step break down of the CD/DVD packaging artwork production process. Click on the following links to skip to desired section.
Pre Production
Pre production is the most important process when it comes to assuring that your album is designed exactly how you or your band envisions it. We will arrange an initial pre production meeting with the musician(s) so that we can walk you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
Designated Contact
When working with a musical group, we ask that one person become the designated contact. This person will be who we contact whenever we need important information to continue our production process. Please choose the person in the group that is the most prompt and preferably savvy in email communication.
Packaging Selection
Example of CD PackagingThe first step is to figure out what type of packaging you are looking for. We work hand in hand with Disc Makers so that our clients can choose from a wide variety of packaging options. Click here for packaging options.
Once you choose the type of packaging we will move on to coming up with concepts for your artwork. Musicians are encouraged to sketch up any preliminary ideas they may have. We will listen to your ideas and offer professional suggestions along the way to make sure that the disc is made to current standards.
Obtaining Assets
After we decide on a layout concept the musicians need to send us any and all logos, photos & additional images that they may already have in their possession. We will go through all of your assets and check them for resolution and quality issues. This process is very important for guarantee that your disc is printed at the best quality possible. Click here for an explanation of image quality and resolutions.
At this time we will also ask for all of the copy (text) that is going to be present on the album. This is (but not limited to): Track listings* (track name, number, length, exc…), Band Members and their positions, thank you text, legal information, credits, and anything else you want listed on the album.
Creating and Preparing Assets
If you do not have all of the assets that are required to create your albums artwork we must create them. alanQuandt.com has several photographers that work specifically with musicians and offer great rates. If you do not have a logo or your logo does not meet print quality standards we will gladly design or redraw your logo in a format that is acceptable for printing.
Production
We now have all of the information and assets required to create your albums artwork. Please allow us up to 10 business days to complete the initial design of your album. Depending on current workloads your artwork may be completed in a shorter time.
Correspondence
Sometimes unexpected items come up during the production process that will require contact with the client. We will call or email the designated contact person with details of what we may need. This is a rare situation but every once in a while certain assets end up not working out right or some questions may come up (colors, positioning, exc…). In most cases we can move on to another area of design while waiting on a response. However, in rare situations this may be a key element to the design and can halt the process in turn extending the proposed completion date.
Review and Revisions
With Client During Art Board Review Session
Art Board Review
After alanQuandt.com has completed the initial design of your album we will setup another meeting with the musician(s). At this time we will sit down with you and review printed versions of the individual panels (or pages) of the album.
Each client is given one revision at the initial “per panel” rate. So what we do is make sure that we thoroughly analyze the artwork for any changes you may see fit as well as grammatical errors/changes. We will mark the art board with notes from the review session and take the board back to the studio.
At this time we will make all of the changes requested from the review session. Occasionally we may need to contact the groups designated contact person for any other information needed to finalize the album.
Assuming your recording and mixing session are complete, you are now ready for your disc to be manufactured!