Saturday 23 July 2016

Whether you are a graphic designer or any other kind of artist, sometimes finding that stroke of inspiration just seems like the hardest thing to have to do. Similar to a writer’s block, ever so often you may find yourself facing a mental wall that does not allow you to move ahead with a project. However, whether you are pursuing a motion design certification or working as a professional, you will not be excused from meeting deadlines and submission dates. To help you through these moments of chaos, here are ten of the most reliable sources of inspiration that will surely plant a seed of creativity in your mind:

Movies

Not only are movies fun to generally mindlessly watch, it can be a creative distraction to indulge in. With the various applications of motion graphics being used in a single movie, you never know which scene it takes for inspiration to strike at.

YouTube Videos

A single portal where people from across the globe upload their videos makes this, hands down, the greatest source of inspiration to turn towards. Not only do various established artists have some inspiring videos uploaded for viewers but even a newbie’s or simply people with a passion may have some inventive ideas that you could build on. 

Websites, Forums and Guides

The internet has changed the way you can search for information. Join in on a discussion or go through some interesting guides that could get the creativity in you going.

Discover Something Cultural

With 7 billion odd people currently on this planet, there are a number of cultural factors that you still need to discover. Use this opportunity to immerse yourself in a new experience or open yourself to understanding another culture.

Art and Architecture

Art and architecture are elements that could leave you feeling amazed. Not only is observing the actual structure or strokes of a piece a wonder, but the sensation of taking your mind to another world could inspire you in ways like never before.

Magazines and Advertisements

Visual elements such as printed advertisements and magazines too can be a great source of inspiration. Since they combine visual elements such as colors along with words, they simulate thinking. 

Social Media
 
Social media has not only been connecting people but also opened doors to sharing ideas and thoughts across the globe. Portals such as Tumblr and Pinterest have some stunning graphics that could get you in the right zone.

Other Artists

When you absolutely cannot come up with something of your own, the industry itself will take care of you. Turn to the works of other designers and artists who may have a particular trait working out for them. This may help you find your own foundation to work on as well.

Experimenting 

Sometimes you may not be able think of a stable idea but may prefer to work and see where it goes. Do not shy away from experimenting with designs and making mistakes. Step away from the rules and go with your intuitions. You may just discover something revolutionary.

With inspiration surrounding every inch around you, all you need to truly do is open your eyes and allow yourself to experience the magical wonders!

Friday 22 July 2016

While motion graphic design diplomas in Singapore are being sought out now more than ever, there are many who believe that illustration as a professional choice is a dead end. However, industry experts firmly believe in the opposite. There are a plethora of opportunities for prospective illustrators if you know where to look.


The Current State

With the high level of competition, succeeding as an illustrator depends on your own creativity and set of work ethics. Traditional jobs such as editorial illustration and working on things such as books or covers even today are popular. However, the future depends on how well an illustrator can embrace the trend of digital technologies and advancements.

Problems in the Illustration Industry
 
Just as every other industry faces their own set of challenges, the world of illustration must tackle some issues to survive and thrive. Various factors such as the rising popularity of stock imagery or cheaper outsourcing often make it tough to find work. While stock imaging options offer cheaper readymade alternatives, freelance work makes customizable work easily available too. Another factor that has contributed to this phenomenon is the new era of digitalization. Gone are the days of browsing through newspapers and getting through large novels. Today is the day of kindles, Ebooks, Pinterest and tweets.

Making Digitalization a Successful Tool

While some may choose to see certain aspects of this new trend as limitations or obstacles, many have learnt how to mould it into an advantage. Fields such as animatronics in the gaming and film industries have progressed leaps and bounds as an individual specialized sector itself.

Experts say that not only are design tools are evolving, but the high demand for realistic environments for movies and games has been forcing them to get creative with the technology. With better hardware and technology, illustration has been seamlessly blending in with graphic designing for a renewed future.

Developing effective Skill sets 

To become a successful graphic designer, it is important to develop the following attributes:

Technical Skills

As important as it is to know your way around various tools and technology, you must also know free hand drawing. Along with a portfolio of your best work and a style worthy to boast about, you will be able to sell yourself better when looking for work.

Professionalism

Another key factor to succeeding as a good graphic artist is to have a sense of professionalism. Learn how to respect your clients and meet with the deadlines you set. If someone is critical of your work, take it in a positive manner. This will help you grow personally as well as in your profession.

Provide Relevant Work

As an artist it is easy to forget the lines between creative work and effective work. If you are unable to provide your clientele with good, meaningful work, they will not come back to you. It is important to remember that your work is not just decorative but must also achieve desired goals.

With a strong drive and good degree backing your skills up, flourishing in the industry will be a breeze!

Motion Graphics Design today is visible across a number of media ranging from movies and commercials to even online platforms. It is undoubtedly an amazing field to be working in, but what truly makes a motion graphic artist great? Here are five signs to look out for that would make you an ideal motion graphic designer.


Quintessential Art Skills and Creative Thinking

As a motion designer your job is to bring various graphical elements to life. You may often find yourself working with clients that do not provide substantial information or vague ideas. However, these challenges can be the perfect opportunity to let your creative genius shine. Having a basic knowledge of art is also essential for motion graphic designers. This can help you develop an eye for things that work well together instead of spending time and effort creating things that do not meet the brief.

Perception of Typography and Colour Theories

Considering the fact that typography may be one of the most utilised factors during the process of motion design if not the driving force behind the motion graphic, it is key to have a deeper understanding of it. From knowing which styles complement each other to ensuring optimal readability for viewers, this skill set can take you a long way as a motion graphic designer.

Colours that make your design look attractive if blended in the wrong manner could be disastrous. Since colours can be used to set the right mood, it is important to know their tones and implications.

Networking Abilities

While your success in any filed depends on how well you can network, it is even more important in the media fields since most clients come through these channels as well. As an artist you will be spending a copious amount of time working on projects in studios, robbing you of the regular networking chances. However, you need to find a way to build yourself a network with like-minded people that you share common interests with. This not only means you can get clients referred your way but these contacts can come handy when in need as well.

Technical Skills

A short way away from magic, most motion graphic activities are done through computers and electronic devices. This makes it essential for potential designers to have a knack for technical skills as well. With a basic understanding of programs, new developments can be easily learned and incorporated with future projects.

Management and Organisation

While project management seems unrelated to motion graphic designing, it is one of the few distinguishing factors that set great designers apart from the rest. While working in an organised manner can make the entire process a lot smoother, following project management principles when working can give you an edge over your competition. Taking charge of your activities, ensuring flexibility in plans and strategically planning individual activities can take you to new levels of success.

If you can relate to the above points, motion graphic designing should definitely be the way to go!