Indie publishing and self-publishing are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. Both options give authors greater control over their work, but there are some important differences. In this blog post, we'll explore the differences between indie publishing and self-publishing, and help you determine which option is right for you.
Indie publishing, also known as independent publishing, refers to publishing outside of the traditional publishing industry. Indie publishers are small, independent companies that are not affiliated with a major publishing house. Indie publishers often specialize in specific genres, such as science fiction, romance, or mystery. Entrada Publishing (hey we had to get in a little self-promotion somewhere!) would be considered an indie publisher.
Indie publishing can be a good option for authors who want to maintain creative control over their work, but still want the support and expertise of a publisher. Indie publishers can provide a range of services, including editing, book design, and distribution. Many indie publishers also offer marketing and promotional services, which can be helpful for authors who are not familiar with the publishing industry.
One of the benefits of indie publishing is that it can provide authors with greater exposure. Indie publishers often have established networks of readers and reviewers, which can help to promote an author's work. Indie publishers can also provide authors with access to distribution channels that may not be available to self-published authors, such as bookstores and libraries.
Indie publishing can also provide authors with a greater degree of legitimacy. By working with an indie publisher, authors can demonstrate that their work has been vetted and approved by professionals in the industry. This can be helpful when trying to attract readers and reviewers.
However, there are also some drawbacks to indie publishing. Indie publishers may not have the financial resources or marketing power of traditional publishers, which can limit the exposure of an author's work. Indie publishing can also be competitive, as many indie publishers receive a large number of submissions and may only select a small number of projects to work on.
Self-publishing, on the other hand, refers to publishing without the involvement of a traditional publisher or indie publisher. Self-publishing has become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks in part to the rise of e-books and print-on-demand technology. Self-publishing allows authors to retain complete control over their work, from cover design to pricing.
One of the biggest advantages of self-publishing is that it allows authors to keep more of the profits from their book sales. Traditional publishers and indie publishers typically take a percentage of an author's earnings in exchange for their services, but self-published authors keep all of the profits.
Self-publishing can also be a good option for authors who want to publish quickly. Traditional publishing can be a slow and time-consuming process, as authors must often wait months or even years to see their work in print. Self-publishing, on the other hand, allows authors to publish their work as soon as it is ready.
Self-publishing can also be a good option for authors who want to experiment with different genres or writing styles. Traditional publishers and indie publishers often have specific guidelines and expectations for the books they publish, but self-publishing allows authors to explore their creativity without constraints.
However, there are also some drawbacks to self-publishing. Self-published authors must handle all aspects of the publishing process themselves, from editing to distribution. This can be time-consuming and overwhelming, especially for authors who are not familiar with the publishing industry.
Self-published authors may also struggle to gain exposure and credibility. Without the support and resources of a traditional publisher or indie publisher, it can be difficult for self-published authors to attract readers and reviewers. Self-published authors must often rely on their own marketing and promotional efforts to get their work noticed.
So, which option is right for you? The answer depends on your goals and priorities as an author. Here are some factors to consider when deciding between indie publishing and self-publishing:
Creative control: If maintaining creative control over your work is important to you, both indie publishing and self-publishing can be good options. Indie publishing may offer more support and expertise, but self-publishing allows for complete autonomy.
Time and resources: If you have limited time and resources, self-publishing may be a better option. Traditional publishing and indie publishing can be time-consuming and expensive, while self-publishing allows authors to publish quickly and without significant financial investment.
Marketing and exposure: If marketing and exposure are important to you, indie publishing may be a better option. Indie publishers have established networks of readers and reviewers, which can help to promote an author's work. Self-published authors must rely on their own marketing and promotional efforts, which can be challenging.
Profit: If maximizing your profits is important to you, self-publishing may be a better option. Traditional publishers and indie publishers take a percentage of an author's earnings, while self-published authors keep all of the profits.
Credibility: If establishing credibility is important to you, indie publishing may be a better option. By working with an indie publisher, authors can demonstrate that their work has been vetted and approved by professionals in the industry. Self-published authors may struggle to gain credibility without the support of a publisher.
Both indie publishing and self-publishing can be good options for authors who want to maintain control over their work. Indie publishing offers support and expertise, while self-publishing offers complete autonomy. When deciding between the two options, consider your goals and priorities as an author, and choose the option that best aligns with your vision for your work.
Whatever you decide, we have the tools to help you get you traditionally published (query letter help, beta reading, etc.) or provide you with the cover, editing and layout you need to self-publish. Feel free to submit your query to us as well!
Happy Publishing!