Imagination, originality, sensible logic, solid software skills and a sense of style are just a few standard qualities of a graphic designer. But have you ever wondered what it really takes to do graphic design Nashville, and not just “to do” it but to do it with extreme awesomeness? Our Creative D, takes some time to tell us what’s up.
What does your job entail? As a graphic designer, web designer and Creative Director (Creative D) all thrown into one, my responsibilities are pretty widespread. From a high level perspective I am in charge of the conceptualization and implementation of all design solutions for both our internal marketing needs as well as those of our clients. I consult with clients on their brand and brainstorm visual solutions to help effectively communicate the message behind their marketing objectives. I also play a key role in maintaining client relationships, ensuring that we are on target with current projects and that demands are being met to the best of our ability.
Can you describe your work style and process? It varies by project and really depends on what the individual client is looking for. Typically I begin the graphic design Nashville process by researching and looking at related industries in order to spark ideas and get a feel for what the competition is bringing to the table. Then I really dive in and begin working on nailing down an identity for the product or service. Once the client has approved the logo design I begin to lay out a wireframe for the website. This is basically a map of the website’s functionality–the different tabs and aspects that will exist on each section of the site. When the wireframe is good to go I send it back to the client for review and, once approved, begin developing the website and inputting content (Note: whether we generate the content or the client provides it varies). As part of the website design and development process our team of marketing and SEO specialists optimize the content for popular keywords. This way when all is said and done the website ranks highly in Google’s search engine. (Another note: the process to achieve a high page ranking on Google is a gradual one.) Finally, when we believe the website is in good working form and looking stellar we submit it to the client for review. Based on their feedback we make any final changes and then we launch that baby into the online world!
How much experience do you have? I have about 11 years worth of graphic design Nashville experience. Since college I’ve worked in the print industry, at a software development startup, and then finally decided to go the creative agency route. I’ve been at Creativetopia for over 5 years now and in that period of time have had the fortune of watching it transform into awesomeness.
Where do you go for inspiration? For inspiration I rely a lot on the world around me, things that catch my eye in the everyday. To get the creativity flowing I also read Communication Arts magazine, listen to Pandora (lately am loving me some Mumford and Sons and Edward Sharpe) and frequently consult the all-knowing Google.
Who is your favorite designer? I really like the iconic pop imagery and the vibrant colors of Andy Warhol.
What software do you have experience using? Being that I’m a graphic and web designer I have to be able to code websites and therefore have a running knowledge of CSS and HTML as well as some experience dabbling in other coding language. As far as executing graphic design Nashville projects, I mostly use and am highly proficient in Adobe Creative Suite which include InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, Flash and Dreamweaver. However, discontinued use of Flash as it is not smartphone or tablet friendly.
Why did you want to become a graphic designer? Honestly I just kind of fell into it. I remember having a conversation with my mom at the beginning of my college career, complaining about how much I hated numbers and didn’t really think I wanted to pursue business (which was the route I was going at the time). She pointed out that I always liked to doodle and that maybe I should take a stab at graphic design Nashville. So I did and, lo and behold, I just happened to be a natural at it. I’ve never turned back since!
What do you consider to be the current trends in graphic design Nashville? I’d say the biggest trend across the board is that design is going more and more digital. People are still producing print pieces but not at the volume they were 5 years ago. With the prevalence of technological devices–iPhones, tablets, etc.—many print publications have turned their material into online reads. Some have even completely kissed the print world goodbye, now only releasing their issues in digital format. Even when it comes to mailers and advertisements the industry is shifting to the digital realm–sending e-vites instead of snail mail and producing banner ads and online pay-per-click commercials instead of investing the time, money and ink on large format posters. By going the digital route designers can reach a lot more people for a lot less $$.
What are some expectations of being a graphic designer? As a graphic design Nashville guru you must have a creative, yet well-organized mind. In order to have a competitive advantage in the graphic design industry a designer must be highly creative and original, while at the same time must be able to think critically and visually in order to solve complex problems. A truly experienced designer is one who is able to envision a project from beginning to end, ultimately delivering a design that is both eye-catching and in line with the client’s vision and mission.
Technology also plays a huge role in modern day design. Being an expert on the subject is becoming just as important as a designer’s understanding of color, line and composition. Basically, in order to have a competitive advantage in the graphic design industry you must have knowledge in multiple areas of design and be able to wear multiple hats. It’s also important to keep up with related industries so that you can be aware of when new helpful design tools or programs come to market. And don’t forget, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your competition! Not only will it help you to gauge where you’re at as a designer but you might learn a thing or two.
How is communication important in graphic design Nashville ? Graphic design is essentially turning a message into a visual icon or experience that is both clear and captivating. It’s the visual representation of a thought or idea. Images can be very powerful and compelling tools of communication. Not only do they convey information about a subject but, when used in the right context, they can evoke a particular emotional response. As a graphic designer I make sure that the designs I create clearly communicate the desired message my clients are trying to get across. It’s not just about making something pretty, it’s about creating something that speaks to the audience at hand. If a design doesn’t evoke the desired reaction the client is going for then the brand’s entire message is thrown off and will cause confusion with the audience/consumer.
Do you sketch your designs before you make them? Again, it depends but typically I go straight to the virtual drawing board (the new school approach) and just start playing around, manipulating shapes and text until I find something that feels right.
What kind of working environment to you prefer to work in? My ideal work environment is a relaxed, flip-flops and shorts kind of place while of course dressing for success when needed (i.e. meeting with clients.)
How do you deal with criticism? I look at the criticism as constructive and use it as a benchmark for where I’m at today and what I have to do/what areas I need to work on to get to where I need to be. It’s all about being open and pushing your boundaries on what others think. Sometimes it’s not about my skills at all but rather about the expectation of the client and whether or not I’ve met the expectation. It’s all a learning process not to be taken too personally.
How fast-paced is the working environment as a graphic designer? On a scale of 1-10 (10 being the fastest) I would put it on a scale of 6-8 but it really depends on the project and how you set the expectation of the client. Some clients just want a one time logo design and some business cards while others are looking for complex websites with fully functioning e-stores and the like. When it comes to websites the project is never really finished per say. After the initial launch I can put it on the back burner for a bit so that I can dive into the next project but websites are live on-air all the time so there’s a lot of maintenance to keep up with. Not to mention it’s a good idea to freshen up the design/add new features every 3 to 6 months. So, in terms of pace, each project varies in length. One thing I can tell you is that, especially being the senior graphic designer at our company, I’m always busy!
Is your brand in need of a little graphic design Nashville TLC? If so, drop us a line (615) 656.7488 and we can get you all spruced up!