Thursday, February 25, 2010

Phancy Designs, inc.

Our last project for Delivery Systems II is a website promoting ourselves, and our “design firm.” For my design firm, I chose the title “Phancy Designs, inc.” because it gives off a unique and playful vibe.

I reviewed numerous design firm websites, and most of the basics were the same. There were firms that included many more categories, and others that didn’t include enough contact information.

Most firms included a portfolio showcasing their work, as well as a brief description of what their company actually does, and what kind of service to expect from them.

I also saw many firms featuring past clients, and showcasing the works they created for them, as well as a follow up link to their website.

For my website, I chose to keep in the basics, and made sure to include contact information (although, some contact info is faked, because it is a school project), and a small selection of previous designs.

Friday, February 19, 2010

Taking on Project 365

"Intellectual growth should commence at birth and cease only at death."
Albert Einstein


I recently discovered an interesting and motivational activity called “Project 365” and thought this would be a fun and worthwhile task to take on. Not only for the memories I would be creating, but also to help me grow as a designer and photographer.

The basic task of the project is to document a year of your life in pictures. It would be a photo journal, to look back upon. With our busy schedules, so many days pass by, and the days start mixing together. We can’t remember what happened each day, only the really special moments.

With this project, it helps you to see the beauty and inspiration around you, and enables you to create a “special moment” every day. I’m hoping it will further spark my creativity, and help me with new angles, composition, and lighting effects.

Each day I will add a new photo to my Photo Blog. I hope you will follow along on my journey.

Thursday, February 11, 2010

A picture is worth a thousand words

"If you see something that moves you, and then snap it, you keep a moment. "
Linda McCartney


I've always loved photography, and capturing special moments. I’ve had the privilege of owning several still cameras, as well as digital cameras. A few years ago, I purchased a DSLR, and never got around to reading the manual. It was very simple to use. I just had to click it to “auto” and I was off and running.

Recently I found my manual, and have been meaning to read it, but it seems like I never get the time. I chose “Basic Digital Photography” for my next project, so I can explore the manual settings in depth. I'd also like to work more with a tripod, and try out some HDR (High Dynamic Range) shots as well.

Friday, February 5, 2010

Positive thinking is always key

"Reality is the mirror of your thoughts. Choose well what you put in front of the mirror."
Remez Sasson


When approaching any situation, especially when meeting clients and potential employers, a positive attitude is always key. Even if you aren't the most secure with yourself as a graphic designer, learn to fake it by exuding positivity.

I believe if you are positive about your work, then others will take on that same attitude. If you try to make your work appear superior by constantly putting others down, an employer or client can see right through that, and it will appear that you are deflecting insecurities about your own work.

With so much negativity going on in the world, a little positive thinking goes a long way.