An album shoot is quite critical, actually. Many people buy albums based on the cover because they are collectors or want to put it on display and what not. Quite frankly, I myself buy physical copies of an album just so I can see it and have it, but I do feel more inclined to buy it if it has a good cover, especially since one of the reasons to even have a physical album in the first place is to see the cover and the booklet in all its glory. Without a nice cover, I can just DL it and be done with it.
I'd love something minimalistic but still stunning and captivating. A face shot is definitely something I'd love. Think LOUD by Rihanna. Preferably without any text. I like it just being a picture with nothing else.
Imagine the HIAM cover without the lettering as a CD. It'd be awesome!
Not to mention, the album shoot pictures are used for EVERYTHING. Banners, posters, and covers. They need to be good!
I mean...
vs.
