Finally decided to pay an artist friend after using AI for my album cover

So I'm putting out a small music project and needed cover art. I spent like two weeks messing with Midjourney, got some cool images, but it felt kinda hollow. The choice was basically: use the free, perfect-looking AI image, or pay my friend Sarah, a real illustrator, even though her style is less 'polished'. I went with Sarah, paid her $150. The art she made is a bit rough in places, but it has a vibe the AI stuff just didn't. It feels connected to the music now, like a person actually listened to it. I still think AI art is a neat tool, but for something this personal, the human touch won. Anyone else hit a point where the 'perfect' AI option just didn't feel right?

4 comments

4 Comments

joelmoore26d ago

Wait you only paid $150 for custom album art? That's a crazy good deal for something made by a real person. @diana_jenkins65 is right about the vibe, but the price is the real shocker here. I've seen people charge ten times that for way less work. You made the right call supporting your friend and getting something with actual soul.

diana_jenkins6526d ago

Totally get that, the vibe matters more than polish lol

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robertcarr26d ago

Hold up, only $150? That's honestly wild for custom art these days. You basically got a steal while helping out a friend, which is awesome. Seriously good call.

rileygarcia1d ago

Yeah I used to think you needed that polish, but honestly the vibe thing is so true. It just hits different when it's real.