Basically, when I know how I want something, but not exactly, I go back to basic and do it step by step. What’s the message, what’s the feel, grid? Then colors, other elements. Once I get a prototype, I can see how it’s different from what I really want, so it’s only a matter of slight adjustments.

It feels nice when things sound complicated, makes us feel big, but really, keeping things simple works best.

I like inspiration too; it’s worthwhile to spend some time each day looking at good stuff, listening to music. Then listen to the same music when I’m doing work; it triggers the subconscious memory.

Knowing full details of the final outcome is essential to make inspirational designs. There should be clear message.

Knowing is learning itself. The more we know, the more we learn, and the more we’re able to produce much better things.

When I design for other companies and my name won’t appear on the project or be associated with it, the pressure to produce something overtakes the pleasure of producing it. That’s when I go into default mode and use my years of experience to produce something, if not inspired (which I prefer), competent and good.

I went into my kid’s grade 5 class last week and taught a class on logo design. Went through the steps that I use to come up with concepts for logos; walked the kids through them; we designed a logo representing their teacher, and then (and I’m not sure WHAT I was thinking, other than I wasn’t quite sure they were listening) I said that if they sketch them out for me, I will illustrate them for them on the computer. Three days later, my son came home with 25 sketches of logos, each kid representing him or herself or their cafe. And the logos are great!
I figure if grade 5 students can design logos from one lesson, maybe I do know a thing or two about what I do for a living.

The easiest way to find out what you know that you didn’t know you knew is try teaching it to someone else. I recommend 5th graders.

Alternatively if in doubt, Google it and see what others say/think!

I am currently studying pro photography, and illustration. I have used some graphic design in Web work and hope to add that to my skills.

And — I pray a lot too, Michaela : ) You never know what’s comin’ next! He is the best designer of all.

Thanks for sharing.

1) I try to figure out what the three top priorities of the piece, as well as the design, should be.

B) I think about the audience. What will they be doing, thinking, or expecting, and how can I leverage that to aid the design.

iii) I try to develop a story in my head about what the piece is trying to communicate, and think about how to tell the story in an engaging and visual way.

And I have to agree with other post-ers that God has used Before & After many a time to help me with design conundrums!

Thanks guys!

I don’t fret too much now. If I don’t have a good idea at first, a good one will usually come later. It is best not to try to force a solution in one sitting, I think.

Then, it’s just a matter of following through on the inspiration.