04 Mar
Here are my thoughts on what and why I carry these items with me everyday.
Of course this is only my opinion and will differ with each person and career no doubt. However, the principle is the same, Stay Creative! and never miss an opportunity.
1. Sketch Pad
For me this item is number one for the simple reason it gets used A LOT! I might make a quick sketch of something I like or jot down a website or reference to follow up later. It all goes in this one creative bible. On days when I’m sitting at my desk or in the sun I can doodle or design a few ideas to re-brand one of my logos. Ever had an idea you thought was great and then simply couldn’t remember the finer details later? GET A PAD.
2. Pen & Pencil
This probably sounds daft considering I’ve put a sketch pad as number one, which of course you need something to draw with, but it’s still greatly important. Again how many times have you needed a pen, a new opportunity or contact has presented itself and you need to jot down some information. Even if you don’t have paper to hand, write it on your forehead, or maybe your hand would be better.
3. Laptop, with mobile broadband!
I’m always on the move with clients and ideas, so with the web design industry updating itself daily and managing my own web and print design business Nuttifox, I need a permanent internet connection. This also helps me keep track of projects and showing my clients their websites and print mock-ups in meetings, not having to rely on them having a good internet connection or changing my configuration to access it. Also another great source of inspiration for the journey home on the train, I can visit a few of my favourite inspirational sites to keep my ideas fresh!
4. Bag
Sounds obvious, but we are starting to carry a few larger objects, plus you never know what you might pick up on the way, get a good bad, personally the funkier the better and you can’t go wrong with a little more inspiration from say John Burgerman, who I seem to be using as one of my inspirational sources at present.
5. Business Cards
If your a freelancer like me, especially if you work alone, these little babies can be a great source for new business. I’ve manged to get two new clients by simply leaving them in a coffee shop and on the train. So if you don’t have any, make some NOW! and make them suit your style of design, it helps to attract the jobs you prefer.
6. iPhone with some good games!
Inspiration, ideas, creative goodness can come from anywhere, including games. Plus it’s good to let stuff like that happen subconsciously, no need to burn yourself out!
7. Camera
A very useful tool to catch them perfect moments. Now this may well be further up the list for some people, unfortunately them perfect moments don’t happen to often in my studio or car, however, there are times when a meeting has gone well and before you know it your enjoying the best London bars have to offer, whilst capturing some very dad-like dance moves!
8. Money!
Now, don’t spend what you don’t have! not to sound like a nagging mother, but us designers use a lot of equipment and we like to stay up-to-date. A few times I have done work for people that have offered me deals I could not refuse, also that new design magazine is out or you need a snack to keep you going. Some of my ‘whim’ purchases having been the best decisions I have ever made. Of course I’ve just worked my behind off to land that next big web development project with a nice deposit, so I know I can.
9. Reading Material
With the web, it’s much easier to stay in-touch with fresh design. But personally I also love a good design magazine or book on a fav designer. I think sometimes seeing design in print has a much more engaging charm. Plus you can drool over some nice rich 300dpi colour and shapes.
10. Brain food
It’s can be a long day, most days for designers, so keep yourself going. You can’t focus if your hungry. For me, Mmmm… Starbucks and a good sandwich and/or cake. Also with my Starbucks members card! very sad I know, but a good place to sit with coffee, cake and laptop… bliss.
