Graphic Design
There’s nothing like an inspirational graphic to grab attention for your brand. But, small businesses and nonprofits can’t afford to hire top ad agencies, so what to do?
First, look for young local artists, illustrators, or art students who are willing to work with you at a fair rate. Ensure they are wizards at Photoshop. Many are building their portfolios early in their careers and, given the chance to create something unusual, will be eager to do it.
Next, you need to check out the unbelievable graphics shared recently on the Canva site. They will blow your mind! Continue reading
In case you didn’t know, Pantone announced its color of the year for 2015 in early December. And, I must say, it is a beautiful wine color called, Marsala.
The color has hit the fashion, interiors, and beauty industries big time, but what about graphic design?
Marsala for Graphic Design
A rich contrasting color, Marsala is ideal for use in graphic design and packaging. Eye-catching, but not overwhelming or bright, consumers are immediately drawn to the hue, making it an alluring shade at point-of-purchase. As packaging becomes increasingly more artistic, Marsala will be a natural fit for both high- and low-tech materials, including on-shelf periodicals as well as printed assets, like calendars and stationery.”
Pantone 18-1438 is “an earthy shade with a bit of sophistication, texture is the story in print and packaging. A matte finish highlights Marsala’s organic nature while adding a sheen conveys a completely different message of glamour and luxury.”
Excellent marketing lingo for a color, right?
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How to Import Logos and Images For Non Designers
Did you know that each time you copy and paste a logo or image, it loses image quality? It’s similar to photocopying a photocopy. With each new copy, the resolution and quality wane, affecting the output.
If you’re like most small business or nonprofit professionals, you may not have graphic design abilities. But, I’ll bet that you still want the convenience of using your logos and images in the documents you create.
Since many of you use Microsoft® Word for word processing, here are the steps involved in importing your company’s logo into your PC documents, using Word 2010. These instructions are in my new book, Beyond Your Logo: 7 Brand Ideas that Matter Most for Small Business Success. Continue reading
