To Learn / To Do
- Learn to use software that aids the design process in a different way to the Adobe Suite - e.g. Learn to use Cinema 4D to aid mockup ups of final products, or usage in illustration.
- Print on different materials - I currently feel I have been limited to just paper or card packaging when working with print. I would love to learn to print on different surfaces, such as wood, metal and plastic.
- Expand my use of format - I would like to be more inventive with format. Not just proportions that I work with, but mainly how my design is viewed in different contexts. e.g. shop front, interior walls, bags, bottles. I feel this would strengthen my interest in branding.
- Be in contact with more studios - This way I can get my name out further as a designer, and also narrow down my ideas as to the type of studio I would enjoy working in.
- Personal work - As well as university work, I would like to work on briefs produced by actual clients. Professional briefs result in an appropriate approach to a professional practice.
- Personal work - As well as university work, I would like to work on briefs produced by actual clients. Professional briefs result in an appropriate approach to a professional practice.
- Develop my own style of aesthetic - This cannot be forced. Style could come within a week, could come within a year. I think it's important to create work that can instantly be recognised as your own, as it helps you stand out in such a competitive industry.
- Coding - Coding, something I would NOT look forward to learning. However, after speaking to a lot of professionals that work in studios, there is a huge gap in the market for part designers & part coders. I would like to undertake a quick course to learn the basics, then teach myself further.
- Website design - An area vital to understand as a designer, as half of all design is web based (the other, of course, is print). It would also be really good to get an understanding of Flash.
- Adobe Dreamweaver - Software I am yet to touch, but hopefully will use in order to aid website design.
Improvements
- Online presence - Make myself known online further. Keep my Behance page up to date.
- Known presence - Get in contact with more studios / possible clients.
- Software - Get a better understanding of software programmes in general. I feel confident in the Adobe Suite, but need to learn to design in an adaptable way. This means that when I start working with clients, it can be easier to modify designs.
- Knowledge of processes - I would like to learn to use more processes in order to give my design a unique aesthetic.
- Time management - I want to ensure that I designate my time better. I hope to work much more on weekdays, and try give myself 1 - 2 days a week off from designing.
- Presentation - I hope to improve the way I present my work in front of others. This will help when it comes to both job interviews & presenting to clients.
