How to condense images so that you can email them

There is a download called Fast Image Resizer- just google it, then download it.  It is very easy (I use an old school Apple, MacBook Air.  I’d love to get a new one and I must say if and when I do I want to get either a hot pink one or red one.  Plus, because I have the first MacBookAir model that Apple put out it doesn’t hook up to the television;  therefore, we can’t watch our Netflix or I Love Film).

By condensing your files it will be easier for Nielsen to receive the front cover when you send it to them.  If you send it to them then it will be on their electronic file and the picture will come up on certain bookstore websites such as Waterstones.

Purchase an ISBN number

The next thing you will need to do if you are self publishing in the UK is to contact Nielsen. (http://www.isbn.nielsenbook.co.uk/controller.php?page=123).  You will need to fill out an application.  The minimum purchase of ISBN numbers is 10.  They come in lots of 10.  So, if you are self publishing one book you still have to purchase 10.  The cost is £121 and change.  It takes 10 days to receive the ISBN number once the application is processed.  Why do you need an ISBN?

You need an ISBN number so that people can locate the book and locate the author, which is you.  This will help people buy your book which is important.  Plus, your book could be stocked in libraries as well as online.  You will need to use the second ISBN number if you are going to put your book online.  The ISBN number distinguishes whether it is a hardcopy or paperback.  Nielsen will give you all that information once they send you your ISBN number either by post or email.  And, the ISBN number is filled out by the author.  If I wanted to locate a book I could just type in the name of the author and the book would come up.  It’s basically a number to help find you and your book.

If you need any help applying for an ISBN number within the UK just email Nielsen.  They are very happy to help you.

If you are outside of the UK it is much, much easier to get an ISBN number.  There are many websites where you can buy 1 ISBN number for £20.  They are legitimate websites.  However, if you feel uncomfortable with their offer just call them or email them to find out the details.  CANADA & INDIA do not charge for their ISBN numbers.  It is free there.  Yes, you could print & self-publish your book in one of those countries; however, you will need an address there.

Have you written an ebook?  Then, you really don’t officially need one; however, I would recommend it because it will help you when you are ready to market your book.  There are many short cuts when self-publishing and this would be an area where you could make a short cut, but why would you?  I say do everything as professional as you can and it will be worth it in the end.

In the end, you need to get an ISBN number before you print.  NOTE:  make sure the printing company offers a barcode.   The number and barcode are two separate things.  I would be greatly surprised if the print company does not have this program.  If they don’t, you can download it for FREE and do it yourself.