Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Assignment 13 Research and Inspiration

Research
  • Exquisite corpse is a method by which a collection of words or images is collectively assembled. Each collaborator adds to a composition in sequence, either by following a rule or by being allowed to see the end of what the previous person contributed. - Wikipedia
  • Used to be played as a parlor game with words.
  • Originated in the late 1920's.
  • Used most often by surrealists.
  • Surrealism is an art form where artists drew from ideas rather than real objects.
Brainstorm
  • Silly, non-traditional,
  • Communicating surrealism, fun.
  • Audience is myself.
  • Audience would enjoy vibrant colors and non-traditional styles
  • Legs: muscle anatomy, skeleton bones, cool/interesting shoes, non-realistic colors, animal legs, frail legs, tattoos, robot, Stephen Kroninger- different/unexpected things making up the legs, socks, tail. Clothes: Interesting pattern/texture, not an actual article of clothing- texture cut in shape of, american flag shorts, newsprint pants, patterned tights, tutu, ballerina, feather skirt. Background: solid color, texture, paper texture, black, sky.
Inspiration


This image stands out to me because I like how each part of the image has something quirky within it. Rather than just creating normal parts, they added interesting things such as the oversize moustache, the clothing, and the characters at the bottom.

I like this image because of the colors and the interesting sections that you would never imagine to go together.

Monday, January 30, 2012

The Creative Process

The creative process is a series of steps repeated every time something is designed.
Why is this process necessary?
  • Improves consistency
  • Ability to plan and time your work
  • Raises the quality of your work
  • Communicates more effectively and in a more professional way
What are the steps?
  • Research: Find what else is out there, inspiration, background information on your subject or message, audience. Books, magazines, online, everywhere.
  • Brainstorm and Inspiration: Who is my client? What message am I trying to communicate? What am I trying to tell my audience? What kind of colors or styles will work for this audience? Come up with adjectives that will describe your message and your piece. Find pieces that inspire you and have pieces that you like and may want to include in your design.
  • Sketch: Create thumbnails to quickly record thoughts and ideas - placement, colors, typefaces, images.
  • Execute: Combine type and imagery into a well developed composition. Use design principles, visual organization guidelines, different techniques and options. Don't try to force an idea.
  • Critique and Revise: Take a step back and look at the design objectively. Have someone else look at the image. Tweak the design if something isn't working.

Friday, January 6, 2012

Photography Guidelines

Snapshots vs Photographs
  • Snapshots are quick, spontaneous shots taken to record a moment in time.
  • Photographs are planned images taken with care and thought.
 Rules of Composition
  • Rule of thirds: imaginary lines drawn dividing the frame of your camera into thirds, both horizontally and vertically. Avoid placing the focus or subject in the center. Place the horizon line at the top or bottom horizontal divider. Also can fill up the frame with the subject for a close up image.
Leading Lines
  • Use the lines created within the foreground or background of the composition to lead the viewer's eye through the photo.
Point of View
  • Change the way that the subject is perceived by changing the camera position. To make the subject appear very tall, take the shot so that the camera is looking upwards.
Simplicity
  • Keep the background simple and clear of clutter. The mood and effectiveness of a photo can be altered by what is in the background. A chaotic composition will cause the viewer to look away.