Heading Northe

It was difficult for me to take myself seriously as a logo designer without having my own logo. Logo work requires a step back, examining the business and the goal from an outsider’s perspective. It’s simpler to design a logo for a company that is not mine, as I discovered in this long process.

The first thing I did was take a good look at what I wanted from my business and what my business represented. When I originally came up with the idea and brand of “True Northe” it was older, more traditional, with a spinning compass that represented finding the right design direction. Continue reading

“You should never judge a book by its cover.”

Why? Because it’s what’s on the inside that counts. We all know that’s true, but the reason we’re told never to judge on appearances is because we do. All the time. Can’t help it.

Tell Angelina Jolie or Hugh Jackman that looks don’t matter.

It’s not a bad thing, we just use our eyes and trust our first impressions. We like things to be pretty, or edgy, cool, whatever mood we’re in, we like something that looks good. Continue reading

Welcome to Washington state. Native Washingtonians constantly tell residents of other states that it rains a lot in Washington. In fact today, September 19th, it is raining. But one thing that the native Washers don’t tell people, is just how drop dead gorgeous our summer days are. We’re talking off the charts beautiful. Clear blue skies. 75 degrees. Green trees. Green ferns. Bald eagles frequenting the skies.

Summer time is tough for working. Finding the discipline to stay inside and focus on my work is tricky. So sometimes it’s just better not to fight it. In fact, it’s good for the mind to get out and experience God’s beautiful work.

Yesterday I did just that. My monitors face the window, so I was constantly reminded that it was a wonderful day. I packed it in, put the mac to sleep, and headed outside for a 12 mile ride on my newly tuned bike. In turn I got the endorphins going, got to feel the cool breeze on my face, and didn’t have to think about staying inside on a perfect day.

I peruse inspirational sites nearly every day, keeping up with trends, looking for ways to improve, always learning. Designers suggest taking a lot of photos, drawing, and getting away from the computer for inspiration. I recommend exercise. Some of my best ideas have come to me while I’m filling my daily aerobic and anaerobic needs. It’s a form of self-hypnosis, where the conscious mind is focused on something simple, so the subconscious can be free.

Be inspired. Go work out.