I wouldnt be upset to get paid $500 for a cover either. Actually I make just a little over half that for my book covers...what makes me mad is that this is just another word for "Spec" work that many publishers try to get artists to do. Many artist put forth their hard work and skills but only 1 person will be paid for their efforts. Having a contest for fun is kewl...but for a potential client who turns their need for a book cover into a contest is just not ethical!

How can artists ever expect to make a living if clients decide to make all their projects a "Contest"!