"Today is a good day. I got to use my imagination, and I don't remember the last time I got to do that."

 

Below is my design philosophy. It lists the process I go through in order to create my designs as well as a view on team and individual projects. 

 

MY PROCESS

When it comes to design, there are certain things I must do in order to feel accomplished in my work. The first thing I do is research the subject matter thoroughly in order to get as much valuable information possible. With the research, I will be more equipped with what it is I need to do to create a design to the best of my ability. The more research I do, the more my client will enjoy the design I have came up with because it is not only bettering them, but also hopefully bettering the community.
 

Next thing I do is to sketch out some thumbnails of my concept to get it out on paper and examine it from a different perspective instead of it only being in my head. I do this so I can get the basic layout of where I would like everything. Finally, I begin building my design on the computer after I have sketched out my idea in thumbnail form.

 

WORKING WITH OTHERS

​The design industry is vast. In many situations, an individual could work on one project as a part of a team and another project individually. I thrive in both settings. I love working as a member of a team as well as individually. Team design work helps to get everyone thinking in different ways, and it is helpful to hear the feedback from other individuals from a plethora of backgrounds. With collaboration come new methods of constructing a design as well as constructive criticism. Additionally, working individually allows you to focus in on the content without the distraction of others. It also gives you less of a chance of disagreement. However, I enjoy both methods in producing design work because both allow me to discover new possibilities for a successful design.

 

FINAL NOTE

“The customer is always right.” A phrase that has been reiterated to me not only in my classes, but also while at the different jobs I have had throughout my life. Yes, I do believe this is true, but I also like to add in a little bit of “Melissa” within each design I create. In order to better mesh these two together, I try to display a visual and verbal relationship successfully through the use of design elements or catchy phrases in the appropriate position. I am always trying to keep my client and product in mind, so I can rise to the challenge and come up with an idea that will both make a statement and please the client. I love design and I hope that through my work, my clients will also form an appreciation for graphics.

​​I AM MELISSA

Graphic Designer. Photographer. Artist.