Strengths:
I believe I have some positive strengths one being quality and It is important to me as a designer to show that quality. when I am given a brief I show a lot of input into the books I create, I try to show an understanding and how I will experiment with different materials and in what direction I could develop an idea. I have an eye for something different and I always like to try something fresh, repeating design ideas may work in some cases, however I believe in originality. I have confidence, when I am discussing work and ideas I like to communicate with everyone the direction I intend to go and how I am going to tackle it. I find confidence a vital attribute to a designer as we are always needing to discuss and sell our ideas. I have a good understanding of the software used but there is plenty of room for improvement. Illustrator is one of my favoured packages giving me the power to build outstanding logos and interesting type. Photoshop is also great package giving me the ability to manipulate imagery to a certain specification. I really enjoy using type and I feel this is one of my strong attributes, having an eye for detail is what makes me different from the rest. Making typography the main focus in my designs is something I try to accomplish communicating that message but in a strong suitable way.
Weaknesses:
I have my ups and downs, managing my time in the studio is an issue as I currently work on one project at a time just developing ideas further and further to see what i can conjure up, this then leads me to fall behind in other areas. I need to develop my time management as to where I can juggle all these requirement for the course to hit the deadlines on time and if not before to give me time to rectify any imperfections. I’m not much of an illustrator myself however; when artwork is needed I can develop up something appropriate. Lacking belief can sometimes seem to be an issue, forever looking at my work from a designers point of view always looking for ways to improve.
Opportunities:
I have been given an opportunity working for Sircus Print & Design creating amusing t-shirt designs and other manual work, which has given me a great insight as to what pace I am expected to work. This is an opportunity everybody would be wanting to take, even though it is not my intended area of design it is the experience what counts. My idea of the near future is to be working for a design house creating experimental layouts, classy logos, and maybe even motion graphics. The field for motion graphics is expanding and more jobs are available. I want to become more adaptable in all areas therefore giving more chance of creating a job for myself. Placement is a very important part of this course and a requirement too. Out of my chosen companies when the opportunity arises for placement this will be my time to shine and show my qualities as a designer. The Live brief has a great opportunity for me, similar principal to placement. Giving me the chance to show how I can execute a brief in a clean cut professional way. Dependant on how I tackle the brief could make an impression, as a student that is what intend to do.
Threats:
Job vacancies are a threat to me; there are jobs out there but it is me who has to find it. I feel threatened by a few of my colleagues due to the standard of work, there is a sense of good competition which is good. 26/1/2012
