OUGD405 (Studio Brief 1) Research

After I collected photos of various types of frames, I begs to brainstorm initial ideas. When producing the backing paper for the photo frame I will need to consider the target audience, purpose, age, the image and what it communicates, the designs must work as a set of three. I started to brainstorm initial ideas, with photo frames revolving around the idea of holding memories, it is important to capture this within the design. With this in mind, it suggests that I could perhaps incorporate the idea of reminiscing memories within the actual backing design. I could give my designs a special, personal and delicate theme. From the initial photographs that I have taken, it is obvious that I have taken a liking to the floral and elegant backing paper designs. I could research further into floral patterns and intricate images. 

With the idea of memories being the most relatable, I brainstormed initial ideas and made a very brief mind map. 

Crit

For the interim crit, we were asked to present our initial idea. For this brief I am very unsure in what direction to take my design process. I presented my very brief sketches, so that I could get some feedback on how to progress with my designs. 

Along with these rough sketches, I noted down some key ideas which would help my peers understand my ideas. I thought about two possible concepts that could be the basis for my designs, fun memories and delicate and special. I thought about the delicate theme I could use a simple script font, subtle colours and maybe play around with the opacity of the image to create a more gentle feel. If I was to choose the fun theme, I could use bold bright colours and images that would have a high impact on the consumer. These initial sketches shown show the ideas I have originally thought of, one being I could base my design on the theme of a postcard, which could attract consumers that want to capture their memories of travelling or past visits.

Crit Feedback:

• the postcard idea seems to be the strongest concept; could expand by designing it as a functional postcard which then gives the backing paper a useful purpose
• use photographic elements rather than illustration
• chosen typeface should be suited to the audience
• choose carefully when and if selecting a script font
• the delicate theme seemed to be a popular choice, could expand this by creating a family orientated themed backing paper
• incorporate the postcard and theme of delicacy together
• using a stamp makes the design more personal

With the feedback from the crit, I wasn't very sure where to take my designs, as I was unsure how to develop the idea of post cards successfully. Therefore I will do further research, and I will take more photographs to help with this process.