Graphics Features

Photographic Lessons from a Political Convention

When photographer Steve Simon covered the 2008 Democratic National Convention, he solved problems that affect all of us who takes pictures, whether we use basic point-and-shoots or high-end SLRs.

Photo Murals Make You Think Big. Really Big.

For this children's museum in California, one intrepid creative pro produced an 18-gigabyte HDR Photoshop file, a 19-foot-long printout, and a 9-foot-high neon sign.

HerGeekness Says: Convert a File, Any File

When clients hand you files so ancient or obscure that they're unreadable, don't despair. Part 1 of my file conversion survival kit will have you repurposing those files lickety split -- without asking the client to lift a finger, and without forcing you to buy every application under the sun just to open the occasional weirdo document.

Learn Wedding Photography from the Pros

What gear do you need? What settings are best? What shots are must-takes? And how do you protect your media and your business? Three professional wedding photographers spill their secrets.

Design Successful Logos

Three logo designers discuss what goes into designing a logo, including typeface choices, inspiration, and overall branding messages.

Photography Secrets from One of the World's Top Shooters

Joe McNally, whose work has graced the pages of Sports Illustrated, National Geographic, and Time (to name a few), shares the stories behind some of his greatest shots as well as the lighting techniques he used to make them great.

Set Them Free!

Find and use the free images and photos hidden in common applications.

The Tricky Side of Photo Model Releases

You may think that model releases aren't necessary for photos used in editorial contexts, but the truth is actually much more complex. Read this in-depth exploration and you'll know exactly what to do to sell your shots without worries.

Going with the Flow

A Visual Designer Transitions from the Silver Screen to Your Computer Screen

Scanning Around With Gene: Pay Up, or Else!

The current economic slowdown has resulted in many people having to stall on paying some bills. Gene Gable takes a look at collection stickers from days gone by and wonders just what motivates someone to break down and actually mail that check.

Scanning Around With Gene: Five Years on a Flatbed

On the occasion of five years writing his column for CreativePro.com, Gene Gable looks back on what he's learned scanning everything from dirty cocktail napkins to old record-albums. That, and the difference between a quail and a pheasant.

Scanning Around With Gene: Oh Yeah? Then Show Me Your Badge.

There was a time when many professions, from elevator operator to society reporter, came with a badge. Gene Gable takes a look back at badge design and wonders what themes might emerge if graphic designers were to revive this lost art. Submit your customized badge and you may win an Amazon.com gift certificate!

A Different Kind of Design Competition

This entry in the 2008 Olympics symbol contest speaks in a language understood around the world. At the same time simple and complex, it's a prime example of good design.

Gift Guide 2007

Looking for something special to give creative types this holiday season? You won't find these suggestions in every mall.

Desert Island Reading

Last month, I received an email message from someone setting up a new graphic design department at a university.

Decoding the Recycling Symbol

Do you know when, where, and how to use the recycling symbol on the products you design or market?

Become a Brand Sponge

What is the key to successful design -- design that doesn't just look good, but speaks for the brand itself? Three case studies from the interactive firm Firstborn hold the answer.

Scanning Around With Gene: One Ringy-Dingy, Two Ringy-Dingies

If people think Apple is overly controlling of the iPhone, they must not be old enough to remember Ma Bell. Gene Gable takes a graphic look at a time when the most exciting phone on the market was called a "Princess," and "phone manners" were not about talking at the opera.

The Art of Business: Logo Lessons

What makes you stand out in a competition? Eric J. Adams reports from the other side of the designer-client divide.

Pantone 2.0: After 45 Years, the Sequel to PMS

The new Pantone Goe spot-color matching system has a lot going for it compared to the venerable Pantone Matching System: It nearly doubles the number of unique colors, adopts a logical naming scheme, and comes with innovative color-palette software. But will Goe replace your current PMS swatch book? Only your wallet knows for sure.