When starting a new project I dive into research on the topic to find ways that I can implement these connections into my designs and make stronger connections to the concept. This process really drives my work since from that research I’ll draw inspiration. Making these choices while designing allows for stronger work that's more impactful. One of the main contributors to my designs is the consistent focus on making each design stronger than the last. I additionally pay close attention to heavily making sure that if a design has a message that it will be read effectively by the viewer and understand its background history. One of the steps in my workflow is solely focused on typeface research and making sure that the smallest details have a connection to the work. In addition, I am extremely deliberate on the composition of the page and how the elements relate to each other. This stems from my background starting in photography and using those teachings within my design work. Evidently I approach layouts as I would when composing a photograph and how these elements can connect to one another. The mixing of these two mediums becomes more apparent as I grow and evolve in my photographic journey. My designs change as well, keeping attention to the details.
Many designers enjoy pushing the edge of designs and how readable they are but another rule of mine is making sure that anyone can understand the message of the work. Part of my role as a graphic designer is being a problem solver to find new and interesting ways to make inviting and functional designs. Graphic design can have major impacts on the world and to spread messages to people. Where I fit into the puzzle is creating designs that give these messages a platform to be told through the elements of the work allowing anyone to understand the message. Ultimately finding a balance between aesthetics and functionality is a key part as a designer to walk that line.
Becoming both a photographer and a graphic designer the question is asked constantly, what do I prefer more imagery or text. The short answer is imagery. I strongly believe symbolism within imagery can carry a great amount of information and meaning to a design. That shouldn’t exclude the text elements since the spoken word can hold value as well but is limiting to others that do not read that language. Being the designer and when it’s available the photographer as well, I try to achieve a balance where the text supports the imagery and allows the message to be understood from either side.
I want my designs to be available and open to all but still pertaining to the goals and rules I follow when going through the design process. Evidently, when I am able to mix both my worlds of photography and graphic design is the ultimate goal of being a designer.