PORTFOLIOS
1 Graphic Design
2 Nature Photography
3 Paintings
4 Illustrations
Download Gift Catalogue
Fees
Résumé
Exhibits
Contact
THE DESIGN PROCESS
Someone once said that good graphic design is invisible. In my opinion, design and text are equal partners. I make many design decisions throughout A project (see “This Is Not Rocket Science” below). Page size, grids, font family, font size, contrast, color, white space, photo composition, resolution... all important. My common sense and artistic instincts come in handy. My sense of humor doesn’t hurt. Also helpful are my years of experience working with type, layout, photography, printing ... and with people. (There are countless details to negotiate in this work.) Design is invisible only in that it should never distract from the message. It must guide the reader and enhance comprehension. Equal partners.
This Is Not Rocket Science: When designing a publication, logo or website, I keep the following in mind:
1) Concept and goals are to be confirmed before work begins.
2) Visual contrast, clarity and balance are critical.
3) Art, text, and color must work logically together.
4) Layouts should guide the reader and enhance comprehension.
5) Text must be written, edited, and proofread professionally.
6) Clients must approve all content before publishing.
7) Print quality must meet professional standards.
8) The final result should function very well.
Print vs. Web: I design publications (annual reports, magazines, newsletters, brochures, logos, posters) for print and Web use. I also offer design of small Web sites, working in a style that emphasizes common-sense navigation and clarity.
Software: InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator and Dreamweaver on a Mac platform (of course).
Editorial Services: I’m often hired by the client to write or edit text. I may also hire additional proofreaders and copyeditors. Responsibility for accuracy remains with the client. (And yes, I’ll make you sign something.)
Fees: After reviewing the project details, I provide a written estimate of my fee. See Sales.
Printing: If clients do not already have a printer, I gather printing estimates and make recommendations. I usually oversee the printing process. (Clients contract directly with printers for payment of printing.)
Photography: My publications clients provide their own photography. I review images carefully for content and technical issues before recommending how they are best used in a design. My own fine art photography can be seen in my Exhibits and on this website via the Nature Photography Portfolio. See also my new Gift Catalgue.
Fine Art: Following my life-long interest in painting and drawing, I also exhibit paintings in oil on canvas and pastel. See Painting Portfolio and my new Gift Catalgue.
Illustration: If original illustration is required for a design, additional time is usually required. I create illustration in Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop, or in pastel, pencil, or oils. (Illustration Portfolio)