Blatant Self Promotion
The last couple years have been quite productive on the photography front, which in addition to design projects have kept me busy and out of mischief.
The last couple years have been quite productive on the photography front, which in addition to design projects have kept me busy and out of mischief.
I've been fortunate to work on a variety of commercial projects for a range of organisations. In particular, I've developed a number of image libraries to help businesses within the service sector to promote their skills and services. Companies have included, cleaning, security & engineering providers.
There is a certain level of control when creating image libraries as you can always ask the subject to repeat the action. This isn't always the case and a prime example is when working at an event.
In 2016 I was able to combine another passion of mine (cooking and photographing food) whilst working on behalf of a company within the hospitality sector.
Another key skill to master is the ability to build rapport and to quickly put people at ease. Unsurprisingly not everyone enjoys having to 'pose' in front of a camera regardless of whether the image is a linked-in profile or part of a company's PR or Marketing strategy.
Having taken over 500 portraits of people, from CEO's through to part-time cleaners, I think I'm well on track to developing my interpersonal skills.
In an ever-increasing digital age, I was keen to promote my photography services using the medium of print. I designed a 6-page standard gate fold mailer and chose a small number of commercial images to highlight a range of skills. Choosing a dozen or so images from 1000's to convey skills within portraiture, reportage, editorial, fashion, and architecture was a tough task. Thankfully Mark Yates helped me see clearly what was 'in' and what was definitely 'out'.
In addition, I hand printed (debossed) accompanying compliment cards using an old letterpress I picked up a few years ago. Thanks go to West 3 Colour who printed the mailer and to GF Smith who provided the duplex card I used to letterpress the compliment slips.
It's always enjoyable to re-engage with traditional skills and the end result is often better for it.
If you would like a copy of the mailer or wish to discuss how photography can enhance your company's image then click here to get in touch.
The evocative nature of the printed item
I've been designing for print and new media for over 15 years and yet I still get a huge sense of excitement in seeing ideas come to life in print.
I've been designing for print and new media for over 15 years and yet I still get a huge sense of excitement in seeing ideas come to life in print.
I recently received a copy of a brochure I put together for Living Oak to showcase their unique approach to home improvement. For me the tactile nature of print is wonderfully evocative. I like the feel of the paper - smooth or coarse. The smell of the ink on the page - yes, I still sniff each freshly opened document.
The choice of paper and printing methods used can greatly enhance the readers impression of the brand and equally detract if those choices have been poorly made.
There is also a sense of permanence with a printed item which I'm drawn towards. Maybe there is a repressed librarian inside me desperate to get out.
I suppose it comes down to whether you'd rather read a physical book or use a device such a kindle? I'd always choose a 'dog-eared' version over something that requires swiping...
Mission Control at the Shard
The first design project of the year is to develop an information board for the window cleaning team at The Shard.
The first design project of the year is to develop an information board for the window cleaning team at The Shard.
I'm working with Simon Hill at Sanderson Cleaning Services to create an interactive board that will provide their on-site team with up to date information on planned work, weather, maintenance issues etc. The board will be magnetic and 'dry-wipe' so that information can be moved around and changed continuously.
It is also a great way to ensure that the Facilities Management team at the Shard can see 'at a glance' the work being carried out and by which team members.
The design concept has just been signed off by both Sanderson's and The Shard so the next step is to create the schematic plans for the magnetic panels.
The images I've shown are of a similar information board created for the engineering team at Chiswick Park that I produced for Norland Managed Services.
I'll post some images once the board has been finalised and installed. Fingers crossed they might even allow me into one of the window cleaning cradles to photograph the team in action!