Most traditional publishers don't require you to pay anything (barring postage if its snail mail)
But the key difference AFAIK is that self-publishing is (more so than regular publishing) a gamble where you might shell out a lot of money and get ripped off by a phoney company or get a real company but not get your book anywhere because they can't promote it.
Traditional publishing meanwhile means a lot more rejection and frustration and still carries the risk that your material will get stolen or you'll get ripped off somehow but if you manage to find a reputable, major publisher with lots of clout that likes your material you're golden.
__________________
“Where the longleaf pines are whispering
to him who loved them so.
Where the faint murmurs now dwindling
echo o’er tide and shore."
-A Grave Epitaph in Santa Rosa County, Florida; I wish I could remember the man's name.
Gender: Male Location: +40° 36' 5.70", -73° 57' 49.46
To an extent, yes, however like Omega said, there are differences. The one i look at is royalties, and ownership of all the rights to do what i want, when i want. There are obvious risks though, like described throughout the thread.
Gender: Male Location: +40° 36' 5.70", -73° 57' 49.46
I have approved the interior and cover art files, and finished Copyright step! I am now in the middle of the website creation process for the book trying to decide which template to use and what it should exactly say on the site. Also, they should be sending me a copy as part of the physical proof step for me to approve, can't wait to finally see in my hands!
I believe i can now start the E-book creation process, but i am awaiting verification. It is definitely taking longer than i would have thought. However i feel it was for the best as i think it will be a better book for it.
Gender: Male Location: +40° 36' 5.70", -73° 57' 49.46
Okay Marketing plan is done and the website is all but finished. All that is left is to order copies and approve the physical copy. After that the book will be available!. It looks like next week i will place the order!
Gender: Male Location: +40° 36' 5.70", -73° 57' 49.46
I used to be serious with my music, i play guitar. I have just let it become a hobby a my true love is for telling stories. But i hear ya, lets hope things work out for the both of us eventually, maybe this hard work with self publishing will get their attention.