Being a designer isn’t just about ‘colouring in’. In reality, the design process can be unpredictably lengthy and requires raw talent, spirit and imagination. As a designer you’re also responsible for managing the projects, communicating with clients and attending meetings, it’s a busy job role! New technology is making the life of a designer a lot easier, providing tools at their disposal to help reach their goals.
Providers of corporate framed prints, have created a handy guide on some of the best tools that designers can utilise such as:
Hardware:
Technically, there is design software that’s been developed for PC, however designers work well with an iMac or Macbook. Designers also tend use a DSLR Camera to help capture unique images and they use notepads to draft ideas on paper. This method may seem outdated in the digital world but notepads and sketchbooks are useful for jotting down concepts.
Illustration tools:
There is sketchbook app Paper from Fiftythree available to download, which allows designers to get creative, whilst the Astropad Graphic Tablet can be used to draw directly into Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator Draw for creating vector illustrations.
Using Layout tools:
Another handy tool to add to the designer’s package is the Golden Ratio Calculator; which can be used to determine proportions that are aesthetically pleasing – an attribute vital for a good design. The Modular Scale is another useful tool for determining font size ratios.
Photography tools:
A powerful photo-editing app such as VSCO, allows you to connect with photographers from all across the globe to collaborate and share photography tips. To enhance your images, use PicLab for layering text over photos and PicMonkey
Colour scheme tools:
You can build a color scheme around one single color by using the Adobe Color wheel, whether you’re looking for complimentary colors, contrasting colors ora more monochromatic scheme, this tool is ideal. If you already have an image and want to create a color palette around it, use Pictaculous.
Perfect presentation:
You can create a logo freehand with some of the other tools mentioned here, or you can try a logo design tool like GraphicSprings. This tool provides a space where you can make alterations and customisations and also provides a whole host of other templates for different types.
Improving your working environment:
As a designer you’ll need the optimum work space to allow your talent and imagination to run wild. A comfortable chair is a must, as is a good desk. You’ll also need a good pair of headphones to dig deep into your work.
Completing research:
A Computer Arts subscription is a valuable resource for regular inspiration and advice on all things design but if you’re already working within a team, then maybe a collaboratively tool like Niice is a simpler way to bring everything together
Typography tools:
In a response to a general lack of sources for fonts on design projects, Typewolf was launched. For a font library that’s personal, use Typekit – and try Typecast if you’d like to compare the best of fonts.
