The Process
Creative Brief
I usually start with a creative brief in the form of a script, or boards, or some type of written breakdown explaining the project. Then I’ll chat with the director / creative lead. I’ll listen to their vision, ask questions, and offer any visual references that come to mind.
Image Research
Traditionally I would scour the websites of commercial production companies, photographers, and editorial content for high quality imagery. This still plays an important role in finding imagery the feels fresh, but I’m also a fan of the many image resource tools that have popped up in the last few years, not least of all generative AI.
Once I’ve compiled and organized a library of imagery covering the creative, I’ll share a link for review.
Giving preference to any image selects made by the director / creative team, I’ll lay out several options for title pages as well as the first few sections of text, then send that over for feedback. From there, we usually take our next look at a full draft, and then iterate revisions until the design is locked.
Layout Design
Awards
As in ‘the job awarded to the director that used my layout”.
I have not yet heard about actual awards for this sort of work, but I’d love to win one, so if you know of any please drop me a line.