What is graphic design?
If you break it down into the terms 'graphic' and 'design' it can be summed up as: A way of incorporating and placing visual (or graphic) elements together in a piece (or body of work) to create a finished product that is appealing to the eye. The placement of the elements would be the design part, and the elements themselves would be the graphic part.
Do you use a Mac, or a PC? What are your reasons for your preference?
I was schooled for design on a Mac, had my first designer job on a Mac, but currently use a PC (Acer Aspire). I can swing either way, but since I grew up on a PC, I prefer to stay with it… for now! I may convert myself into a Mac user in the near future as all these new 'I' products seem to be infiltrating into my daily life (iPhone, iPod, iTunes, etc.). I have a feeling it’ll be less hassle and more rewarding if I just had a Mac - iTunes does NOT love my PC (or maybe it’s the other way around!)
What is your main area of design?
Logo design and branding is my current favorite area of design; however I provide an assortment of creative services and skills that range from print design to file conversions to photo editing to creative writing to digital photography and beyond!
What do you most enjoy about being a graphic designer?
I love the ability to be able to create and learn something new every day. Graphic Design is challenging yet rewarding and ultimately satisfying!
When and how did you get your start in the industry?
I started out in 1994 as a web designer and ran one of the only Pro Bono Design Services in the world available to independent musicians! I've come along way since those days, but do miss working in the music industry. |
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Do you have an office space, or are you home-based?
I'm a home based freelance designer/artist/stay-at-home mom. I wouldn't like it any other way, though having my own office space free of kids' toys and music would be nice every once in awhile!!
What skills are most important for a designer?
I believe that experience and natural talent are more important than something you can learn from a book or from a formal/in-formal education. Talent will get you noticed, while experience will help hone your skills and provide you with something to back your talent with.
What is the best part about your job?
The best part of my job would be having the opportunity to work with different people from around the world on projects of all sizes and types. I love the diversity my job offers. |
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What specialized computer programs do graphic design professionals typically use?
It varies from designer to designer as we all have our 'personal favorites' but for the most part; designers can't live without Adobe's line of products (Photoshop, Illustrator, Dreamweaver, etc.), it's bread into our systems at an early age!
Could you perform your current design activities without the use of computers?
Yes, but it'd take a lot longer and probably wouldn't be economical for a lot of my clients, since many of them are from other countries. Time = money in the design world! Guess, that'd mean I'd be rich since it'd take so much longer to accomplish even the simplest of tasks!
What's the most challenging part of your work?
I would say the most challenging part, besides keeping on top of networking and promoting my business, would be making sure the client is one million percent happy all the time! |
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What was the hardest thing to learn about the industry?
The hardest thing in the design industry is to keep learning new 'tricks of the trade. It's one thing to go to school for design, but it's a totally different ball game once you've graduated. You're on your own and will need to stay on top of you're A-game when it comes to learning new programs, languages, techniques and gizmos. The technology world is ever changing, and as a designer you need to stay on top of ALL the latest trends. It's literally out with today and in with tomorrow! Staying one step ahead is hard and dedicating work.
What are your key responsibilities?
Well, since I'm a sole proprietor and independent contractor (meaning I work alone and for myself) I have a ton of responsibilities! I'd say the major ones are keeping the client satisfied, creating exceptional work, promoting my site and services to no end, while trying to remain connected to the world of design. Oh and fitting in time with my kids, family, pets and some time for myself to do some crossword puzzles!
Inspiration is something designers constantly seek, what would you do to find inspiration for your design work if it happens to dry out?
Go for a walk by the river. Nature has a way of inspiring even the laziest of creative minds! Either that or I'd take a vacation to my parents place or cottage if it's summer time that too has a way of recharging the ole brain cells! |
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What is your graphic design education?
3 year graphic design diploma backed by countless years of fine/visual art skills and self-taught know-how.
Are you a freelancer? If yes, what's your experience in terms of attracting clients?
Yes, I am a freelance designer. You need to be able to offer something unique, yet competitive if you want to attract clients, but more importantly offer realistic prices for your services.
What are some of your personal and/or professional goals for the future?
My personal and professional lives go hand-in-hand for the most part. Personal: Someday start my own design studio/office where walk-ins are always welcome. Professional: Besides starting a design studio, I would also like to offer on location printing services and perhaps even a photography studio (as part of the design studio).
What has been your most memorable assignment and why?
I've had a lot of memorable assignments, some in a good way, some not so good! Recently I received a product sample containing my artwork (I designed the backing card for the product). It was my first 'real' product design, so that was rather exciting and I love how it turned out! I hope to have the opportunity to do more product packages in the future, as it was a lot of fun!
What advice would you give a design student or someone looking to freelance?
I started out as a self-taught designer then went on to become a design student, who also freelanced during that time, and though I was young and not so knowledgeable of how things work in the design industry, I have learned from my mistakes! So my number one piece of advice to you or ANYONE looking to go into business for themselves as a designer is this: Get every little thing you can possibly imagine in writing by YOU and your CLIENT (that includes friends and family)! Don't provide any work or services without some form of a contract. Though it may seem 'uncaring' or 'heartless' don't provide spec work or pro bono work unless it benefits you as well, and this means more than just adding another bullet point to your resume, it means getting credit for your work and getting the exposure you deserve! There, I've said my peace! |
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