Reflection

Graphic Design

What Did You Learn?

In graphic design, I learned the importance of working with clients, using type/shape/spacing elements, and working as a team. Having important creative visions are important as well. I learned how to properly use Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and other important programs. The knowledge I have gained from this course with carry on with me throughout the rest of the years in this program and will benefit me throughout the rest of my career as a designer.

How did you learn it?

At the beginning of the year and most of first semester, we didn’t have as much creative freedom because we had to do tutorials and all create the same product. However, I ended up putting my own creative twist on every project I did and I learned very valuable skills from every tutorial I used. I learned how to use clipping masks with the scuba project, how to use the magnetic lasso tool with the floating mountain project, how to incorporate text with the henna tutorial, and how to use brushes with the landscape picture and color palette tutorial. The second semester, I was able to do more broad projects and have much more creative freedom. I created my own info graphic outside of school, used teamwork to create two unique products, made album covers, and started using a consistent style on all of my work.

Why is it important?

I will carry on these skills that I have learned throughout the rest of my time in the graphic design strand in eComm. I have become more accustomed to formatting a document correctly and using the correct creative process when creating a project. I feel like a more experienced designer and I can definitely create better project because of it.

What are your biggest strengths and weaknesses?

My biggest strength is having big, innovative ideas and leading in group projects. It all comes naturally to me. The weakness I hold is getting bored with projects and-not necessarily giving up on them- but I get annoyed with my work and close out of it. I need to improve on this.

How have you improved?

I have become a better designer overall and strengthened my people and client skills. Viewing my work at the beginning of the year has really shown how incredible it is to work on your skills for a year. I have started creating professional-looking work; something I was not doing in August.

In conclusion, I will continue in the program as a graphic designer and hopefully pursue a career in this field. I would not change a thing about what I did this year besides improving the overall quality of my work.  I’ve had a great year and enjoyed being able to use my creative freedom pretty often in this class.