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Graphic Design Training Course in Port Harcourt, Rivers State

₦120,000.00

GRAPHIC DESIGN & BRANDING TRAINING COURSE IN YO, AKWA IBOM STATE AND PORT HARCOURT, RIVERS STATE.

Master graphic design & branding! Craft stunning visuals with industry-standard tools (CorelDraw, Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign). Learn logo design, layout, typography & branding principles. Create a strong brand identity & impress clients. Become a design pro!

To get started,
Whatsapp/Call: 07061773925
Enroll @

PORT HARCOURT:

Wedigraf Tech Hub

2, Chief Ejims Street, off old Aba Road, Rumuomasi, Rivers State, Nigeria.

Learn to use CorelDraw, Adobe PhotoShop, and Adobe Illustrator software packages to create innovative design projects and discover the skills needed to become an in-demand visual thinker and communicator.
SKILLS YOU WILL GAIN:
Visual Communication, Branding Communication, Graphic Design, Typography, Creativity, Graphics, Design Theory, Color Theory, Adobe Illustrator, History, Adobe Indesign

 

COURSE OBJECTIVES:
At the end of this Beginner to Mastery Graphic Design Training, You will become proficient in:
– Creating digital image files for use in digital and traditional printing methods.
– Developing a creative design for print materials, brochures, banners, and signs.
– Creating and presenting mockups.
– Applying animation techniques to create dynamic visual elements.
– Developing infographics to better communicate complex data.
– Developing graphics and visual content for social media campaigns.
– Creating 3D models and animation for video games and other interactive projects.
– Editing and enhancing existing designs and graphics.
– Creating original designs for a range of print, web, and video projects.
– Implement feedback and suggestions from clients to improve designs.
– Creating motion graphics and video content for websites and applications.
– Cultivating mobile-friendly designs for a variety of platforms.
– Creating logos, illustrations, and typography for various organizations.
– Using interactive design elements to create a more engaging user experience.
– Utilizing typography techniques to create compelling designs.
– Using cutting-edge technologies to create immersive experiences.
– Developing innovative designs for a variety of clients in the graphic design industry.
– Utilizing Adobe Creative Suite and CorelDraw Application Software to develop creative designs.
– Applying color theory and composition techniques to construct appealing designs.
– Working with clients to gather and define requirements, establish scopes, and manage project milestones.
– Creating designs for product packaging and promotional materials.
– Developing original designs for print media, magazines and newspapers.
– Collaborating with other designers to create visually appealing graphics for a range of print and digital media.
– Coordinating with external vendors and suppliers to verify quality and accuracy of printed materials.
– Employing design fundamentals when selecting typography, composition, layout, and color in design work.
– Researching trends and projected industry changes to capitalize on emerging opportunities.
– Completing in-depth product design tests using updated software tools.
– Developing a creative design for print materials, banners, and signs.
– Designing creative digital displays used in online advertising for local businesses.
– Implementing design feedback from customers and internal stakeholders to improve project outcomes.
– Working with design systems to develop and present prototypes for focus group evaluation.
– Collaborating with content and marketing teams to confirm design compliance with brand guidelines.

 

 

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GRAPHIC DESIGN & BRANDING TRAINING & CERTIFICATION COURSE IN PORT HARCOURT, RIVERS STATE

Learn Graphic Design using CorelDraw, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop & InDesign

Course Goals

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

  • Master the fundamental tools and features of CorelDRAW, Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
  • Apply core design principles to create visually compelling and effective graphic assets.
  • Develop a strong understanding of branding and corporate identity.
  • Design and prepare various print materials, from business cards and flyers to large-format banners and magazines.
  • Execute professional photo editing and manipulation techniques.
  • Create a professional design portfolio showcasing a diverse range of projects.
  • Understand print production processes and specifications for various design outputs.

 

Course Structure and Methodology

This course is structured into modules, each focusing on specific software applications, design principles, or project types. The learning methodology is highly hands-on and project-based, emphasizing practical application over theoretical concepts alone. Each module culminates in a Class Project or a Final Design Project Portfolio Presentation, ensuring you apply what you’ve learned to real-world scenarios.

 

Course Modules

 

Module 1: Introduction to Graphic Design Fundamentals and CorelDRAW Interface

 

This module provides a foundational understanding of graphic design principles and introduces you to the CorelDRAW interface, essential for vector-based design.

  • Software Focus: CorelDRAW
  • Key Concepts:
    • The User Interface: Navigating CorelDRAW’s workspace, toolbars, and panels.
    • Basic Drawing Tools: Understanding and utilizing the Rectangle Tool, Ellipse Tool, Polygon Tool, etc.
    • Color Systems: Differentiating between RGB (Red, Green, Blue) for digital output and CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) for print.
    • Object Attributes: Manipulating Outlines (strokes) and Solid Fills.
    • Interactive Fills: Exploring gradients and patterns for dynamic designs.
    • Document Setup: Configuring Page Setup, understanding standard Page Sizes (A4, Letter, Business Card dimensions), and implementing Page Bleeding for professional printing.
    • Exporting Files: Saving designs in common raster formats like JPEG and PNG for web and basic digital use.
  • Hands-on Project: Design a simple promotional flyer for a local event, focusing on accurate page setup, basic shapes, and color application.

 

Module 2: Mastering CorelDRAW’s Shape Tool and Layout Design

 

Building on basic drawing, this module delves into precise shape manipulation and introduces the critical aspects of page layout for common print materials.

  • Software Focus: CorelDRAW
  • Key Concepts:
    • Node Editing: Utilizing the Shape Tool to Add Node, Remove Node, Convert to Curve, Convert to Line, ‘To Curve’, and ‘To Line’ for intricate shape creation.
    • Advanced Shape Creation: Combining and manipulating shapes to form complex designs.
    • Page Layouts: Applying learned skills to design professional-grade Fliers, Letterhead Design, and Business Card Design.
    • Mockup Presentation: Presenting designs realistically using Letterhead & Business Card Mockup Presentation techniques (e.g., placing designs on pre-made digital templates).
    • Portfolio Design Fundamentals: Introduction to curating and presenting design work effectively for a Portfolio Design.
  • Hands-on Project: Design a complete brand stationery set including a letterhead and business card for a fictional small business. Create digital mockups for presentation.

 

Module 3: Crafting Compelling Logos (CorelDRAW & Illustrator Introduction)

 

This module focuses on the art and science of logo design, introducing Adobe Illustrator as the industry standard for vector graphics.

  • Software Focus: CorelDRAW, Adobe Illustrator (Introduction)
  • Key Concepts:
    • Brand Identity: Understanding the significance of a logo as the cornerstone of Brand Identity.
    • Principles of Logo Design: Exploring simplicity, memorability, versatility, appropriateness, and timelessness.
    • Categories of Brands: Analyzing different brand types and their visual representation.
    • Logo Inspiration: Techniques for brainstorming and finding creative inspiration.
    • Types of Logos: Differentiating between Text-based (wordmarks, lettermarks) and Object-Based (pictorial marks, abstract marks, mascots) logos.
    • Logo Components: Understanding typography, icons, symbols, and taglines.
    • Logo Sketching: The importance of initial hand-drawn concepts.
    • Brand Colors: Selecting and applying appropriate color palettes that reflect brand values.
    • Icons / Symbols: Designing custom icons and symbols within a logo.
    • 3D Logo Concepts: Basic techniques for creating a sense of depth (further explored in effects).
    • Logo Rendering: Presenting final logo designs professionally.
    • Logo Presentation: Developing effective PDF/PowerPoint/Video Logo Presentation strategies for clients.
  • Class Project: Design a logo for a new startup company, including initial sketches, color palette rationale, and a professional digital presentation.

 

Module 4: Understanding and Managing Color

 

This module dives deep into color theory and its practical application in graphic design and print production.

  • Software Focus: CorelDRAW, Adobe Photoshop (Color Management)
  • Key Concepts:
    • Color Theory: Exploring the color wheel, primary, secondary, and tertiary colors, warm and cool colors.
    • Critical Color Elements: Hue, saturation, and brightness.
    • Principles of Color Mixing: Additive (RGB) and Subtractive (CMYK) color models.
    • Manipulating Color: Using basic color tools within CorelDRAW and Photoshop.
    • Edit Fill Dialogue Box: Advanced color selection and custom color creation.
    • Color Models: In-depth understanding of CMYK, RGB, HSB (Hue, Saturation, Brightness), and Grayscale color models and their appropriate use.
    • Editing Color Composition: Adjusting color balance, vibrance, and saturation.
    • Industry–Specific Color Combinations: Exploring color psychology and common color palettes used in different industries.
    • Print Specifications (Business Cards): Understanding Printing of Business Card specifications, including 600grams paper stock, Double Side printing, Crystal Lamination, and Round Die-Cut Edges.
  • Hands-on Project: Redesign an existing brand’s color palette, providing a rationale for your choices. Prepare a business card design ready for print, adhering to specified print details.

 

Module 5: Applying Effects for Visual Impact

 

This module explores various effects in CorelDRAW and Photoshop to add depth, dimension, and visual interest to designs.

  • Software Focus: CorelDRAW, Adobe Photoshop
  • Key Concepts:
    • CorelDRAW Effects: Applying Drop Shadow, Extrude (basic 3D), Contour, Blend, Bitmap Effects (e.g., blur, sharpen), Gamma adjustment, Tone Curve manipulation, Trace (vectorizing bitmaps), Transparency, Lens effects, and Envelope distortion.
    • Bevel: Creating embossed or debossed effects.
    • Applying Special Effects to Designs: Strategic use of effects to enhance specific design elements.
  • Class Project: Design a promotional graphic (e.g., social media banner) that effectively incorporates at least three different effects to create visual appeal.

 

Module 6: The Art and Science of Typography

 

This module focuses on typography, a crucial element in effective graphic communication.

  • Software Focus: CorelDRAW, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign (Introduction)
  • Key Concepts:
    • Typefaces: Understanding the different styles and classifications of fonts.
    • Typeface Anatomy: Learning the various parts of a letterform (e.g., ascender, descender, x-height).
    • Alphabet and Letter-form Design: Basic principles of letter construction.
    • Type Families: Exploring font variations (bold, italic, light).
    • Effective Legibility and Readability: Choosing fonts that are easy to read and understand.
    • Fonts Family: Understanding font pairing and hierarchy.
    • Typographic Standards: Industry best practices for spacing (kerning, tracking, leading).
    • Custom Fonts: Introduction to finding and using unique font resources.
  • Hands-on Project: Design a typographic poster for a famous quote, showcasing effective font pairing, hierarchy, and readability.

 

Module 7: Core Principles of Design

 

This module covers the fundamental principles that govern all effective graphic design.

  • Software Focus: All applications (Conceptual Application)
  • Key Concepts:
    • Unity:
      • Proximity: Grouping related elements.
      • Similarity: Using consistent visual attributes (Correspondence, Alignment, Intentional Contrast).
      • Rhythm: Creating visual flow (Positioning, Size, Color, Use of Rules, Background Tints, Boxes).
      • Theme Variations: Consistency with subtle changes.
    • Space: Efficiently Organizing Elements (Pictures, Text, Vectors & Graphic Embellishments) within a design.
    • Dominance: Highlighting key elements through Contrasting relative Size, Positioning, Color, Style, or Shape.
    • Hierarchy: Establishing visual importance through Type / Object / Image Significance and Levels of Information.
    • Balance:
      • Symmetrical / Formal Balance: Equal distribution of visual weight.
      • Asymmetrical / Dynamic Balance: Unequal but balanced distribution of weight.
      • Overall Balance: Achieving harmony across the entire composition.
    • Wholeness/Workability:
      • Sequence: Guiding the viewer’s eye.
      • Continuation: Creating visual connections.
      • Closure: Allowing the viewer to complete incomplete forms.
      • Creativity: Fostering innovative solutions.
    • Color: Aiding Organization, Giving Emphasis, Providing Direction within a design.
  • Class Project: Analyze several existing designs (provided by instructor or found by student) and critically evaluate how they apply (or fail to apply) the principles of design. Redesign one of the analyzed pieces to improve its adherence to these principles.

 

Module 8: Designing and Preparing Fliers and Brochures

 

This module focuses on the practical design and print preparation of common marketing collateral.

  • Software Focus: CorelDRAW, Adobe InDesign
  • Key Concepts:
    • Size/Page Layout: Standard dimensions and layout considerations for flyers and brochures.
    • Format & Layout: Designing for different brochure folds: Gate-Fold, Bi-Fold, Tri-Fold, & Z-Fold Brochures.
    • Design Content: Understanding the purpose and content for various types of flyers and brochures: Response Fliers/Brochures, Check-Out Brochures, Direct Mail Brochures, Promotional/Marketing Fliers, Product Fliers, Event Fliers, Brand Awareness Fliers.
    • Flier/Brochure Printing: Differentiating between Digital and Off-set Printing methods and their implications for design.
  • Class Project: Design a tri-fold brochure for a non-profit organization promoting their services, ensuring correct page layout for the fold and compelling content.

 

Module 9: Large Format Design: Flex Banners and Stickers

 

This module delves into designing for large-scale print, including considerations for different materials and installation.

  • Software Focus: CorelDRAW, Adobe Illustrator
  • Key Concepts:
    • Layout for Large Format: Scaling designs and maintaining resolution for large prints.
    • Flex/Sticker Design Considerations: Viewing distance, material properties, and environmental factors.
    • Large Format Print Types: Understanding Big and Small Machine Flex/Stickers Print, Reflective Flex/SAV (Plain & Dotted), and Window Graphics.
    • Print Costing: Factors influencing the cost of large format printing.
    • Billboard Design: Principles for effective outdoor advertising.
    • Billboard Mounting/Installation: Basic awareness of installation considerations.
    • Fixing/Mounting Roll Up Stands: Design for portable display systems.
    • Flex Branding: Applying branding elements to large format materials.
  • Class Project: Design a large format flex banner (e.g., 8ft x 4ft) for an upcoming product launch, considering readability from a distance and brand consistency.

 

Module 10: Multi-Page Event Program Design (Adobe InDesign Focus)

 

This module introduces Adobe InDesign as the primary tool for multi-page document layout.

  • Software Focus: Adobe InDesign (Primary), Adobe Photoshop (Image Prep)
  • Key Concepts:
    • Page Making: Setting up master pages, pagination, and document structure in InDesign.
    • Wedding Program Design: Specific design considerations for formal event programs.
    • Wedding Program Layout and Page Sizes: Common formats and dimensions.
    • Working with Online Resources: Incorporating stock imagery and design elements ethically.
    • Wedding Fonts Family: Appropriate font choices for elegant designs.
    • Proof-Reading: The critical importance of meticulous text review.
    • Cost Estimation: Factors influencing the printing cost of multi-page documents.
    • Printing: Understanding various printing options for programs.
    • Finishing: Binding methods (stapling, perfect bound, saddle-stitched).
  • Class Project: Design a 12-page wedding program, including cover, table of contents, and content pages, ready for print production.

 

Module 11: Burial Program Design and Production (Adobe InDesign)

 

This module focuses on the sensitive and specific requirements of designing burial programs.

  • Software Focus: Adobe InDesign, Adobe Photoshop
  • Key Concepts:
    • Page Making: Setting up layouts for sensitive content.
    • Program Layout and Page Sizes: Common formats and appropriate dimensions.
    • Working with Online Resources: Sourcing appropriate imagery and textual elements.
    • Center Spread / Photo Gallery Design: Effectively showcasing photographs.
    • Page Numbering – Use of Dummies: Planning for pagination and placeholder pages.
    • Cost Estimation: Calculating printing costs for burial programs.
    • Printing: Understanding specific printing requirements for these documents.
    • Finishing: Appropriate binding and finishing for memorial programs.
  • Class Project: Design an 8-page burial program, including a photo gallery and order of service, demonstrating sensitivity and professional layout.

 

Module 12: Souvenir / Promotional Items Design – Part 1 (CorelDRAW, Photoshop)

 

This module initiates the design of various promotional items.

  • Software Focus: CorelDRAW, Adobe Photoshop
  • Key Concepts:
    • Memo Pad (Jotter) Design: Layout and branding for jotters.
    • Design and Printing of Paper Bags: Considerations for paper bag construction and printing.
    • Cost Estimation: Calculating production costs.
    • Printing & Finishing: Understanding various print processes and finishing options for these items.
    • PSD Mockup Presentation: Creating realistic digital mockups for client approval.
  • Class Project: Design a branded memo pad and a small paper bag for a corporate event, complete with high-quality mockups.

 

Module 13: Souvenir Packaging Design (CorelDRAW, Illustrator, Photoshop)

 

This module expands on packaging design, focusing on structural and aesthetic considerations.

  • Software Focus: CorelDRAW, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop
  • Key Concepts:
    • Paper Bags: Advanced design for branded paper bags.
    • Gift Packaging: Creative and functional design for gift boxes and wraps.
    • Fast Food Packaging: Design principles for food service packaging (e.g., burger boxes, takeout containers).
    • Cost Estimation: Budgeting for packaging production.
    • Printing & Finishing: Specific printing techniques and finishes (e.g., die-cutting, embossing).
    • PSD Mockup Presentation: Realistic visual representation of packaging.
  • Class Project: Design a unique packaging solution for a small product (e.g., a candle, a bar of soap), including the structural design and visual branding.

 

Module 14: Sticker Design and Production (CorelDRAW, Illustrator)

 

This module specifically addresses the design and production of various stickers.

  • Software Focus: CorelDRAW, Adobe Illustrator
  • Key Concepts:
    • Transparent Stickers for Gift Items Branding: Design for clear stickers, considering placement and legibility.
    • Printing: Different printing methods for stickers (digital, offset, screen printing).
    • Finishing: Die-cutting, lamination, and adhesive types.
    • PSD Mockup Presentation: Presenting sticker designs realistically.
  • Class Project: Design a series of branded transparent stickers for a retail product line, demonstrating different shapes and sizes.

 

Module 15: Customizing Notebooks, Pens, and Wristbands (CorelDRAW, Illustrator)

 

This module explores the design and customization of promotional merchandise.

  • Software Focus: CorelDRAW, Adobe Illustrator
  • Key Concepts:
    • Exercise Book Customization: Designing covers and internal pages for notebooks.
    • Pen Customization: Designing branding for various pen types.
    • Wrist Band Customization: Design considerations for silicone or fabric wristbands.
    • Cost Estimation: Budgeting for customized merchandise.
    • Printing & Finishing: Various methods like screen printing, pad printing, and laser engraving.
    • PSD Mockup Presentation: Showcasing customized items.
  • Class Project: Design a complete set of branded merchandise for a university or college, including a notebook, pen, and wristband.

 

Module 16: Receipt/Invoice Design and Printing (CorelDRAW, InDesign)

 

This module covers the practical design and specialized printing of business documents.

  • Software Focus: CorelDRAW, Adobe InDesign
  • Key Concepts:
    • Receipt/Invoice Design: Layout, essential information, and branding elements.
    • Page Layout: Structuring receipts/invoices for clarity and functionality.
    • Receipt Paper Types: Understanding Bong, Carbonized, and various Paper Colors.
    • Printing: Specific printing requirements for multi-part forms: Original, Duplicate, Triplicate.
    • Finishing:
      • Numbering: Sequential numbering for tracking.
      • Perforating: Creating tear-off sections.
      • Collating: Organizing multiple parts.
      • Stitching: Binding multiple sheets.
      • Trimming: Cutting to final size.
  • Class Project: Design a carbonized receipt book for a small business, ensuring proper layout for original, duplicate, and triplicate copies, including numbering and perforation marks.

 

Module 17: T-Shirt Branding / Customization (CorelDRAW, Photoshop)

 

This module focuses on the exciting world of apparel design and various customization techniques.

  • Software Focus: CorelDRAW, Adobe Photoshop
  • Key Concepts:
    • Custom T-shirt Design: Designing for various purposes (Company Tees, Pre-Wedding, Birthday, Burial, Uniform, Anniversaries, Quotes, Campaigns, etc).
    • Customization Types: Understanding the pros and cons of Screen Printing, Monogramming, Flex, Flock, Glitters, Opaque, Direct-to-Garment Print.
    • PSD 3D Mockup Presentations: Visualizing designs on realistic t-shirt mockups.
    • Cost Estimation: Calculating the cost of t-shirt production.
  • Class Project: Design a series of three t-shirt graphics for a specific theme or event, preparing the designs for different customization methods and presenting them with 3D mockups.

 

Module 18: Magazine Design and Printing (Adobe InDesign)

 

This module covers the complex art of multi-page magazine layout and production.

  • Software Focus: Adobe InDesign (Primary), Adobe Photoshop (Image Prep), Adobe Illustrator (Vector Graphics)
  • Key Concepts:
    • Magazine Page Layouts: Grid systems, margins, and columns for complex layouts.
    • Cover Page Design: Creating impactful and attention-grabbing covers.
    • Table of Content Design: Structuring and styling the table of contents.
    • Working with High-Resolution Images: Optimizing images for print.
    • Page Font, Choice of Colors & Page Numbering: Consistency in typography and color palettes throughout the magazine.
    • Page Column Design: Effective use of columns for readability.
    • Printing: Understanding offset printing processes for magazines.
    • Finishing / Finishing Options / Packaging: Various binding (perfect bound, saddle-stitched) and packaging methods.
    • Cost Estimation: Budgeting for magazine production.
  • Class Project: Design a 16-page magazine spread (including cover, table of contents, and featured articles) for a niche topic of your choice, ensuring professional layout and print-ready files.

 

Module 19: Wall and Table Calendar Design and Printing (CorelDRAW, InDesign)

 

This module focuses on the design and production of functional and visually appealing calendars.

  • Software Focus: CorelDRAW, Adobe InDesign
  • Key Concepts:
    • Creative Calendar Design: Developing unique themes and aesthetics.
    • Layout Design: Structuring dates, holidays, and imagery effectively.
    • Wall Design: Considerations for large wall calendars.
    • Single / Multi Page Table Calendars: Designing for different formats.
    • Printing: Various printing methods for calendars.
    • Print Materials for Table Calendar: Understanding paper stock and finishes.
    • Finishing: Binding, perforating, and stand construction.
    • Cost Estimation: Budgeting for calendar production.
  • Class Project: Design a 12-month table calendar for a corporate client, incorporating their branding and a unique visual theme for each month.

 

Module 20: Vehicle Branding (CorelDRAW, Illustrator, Photoshop)

 

This module explores the specialized field of vehicle graphics and wrapping.

  • Software Focus: CorelDRAW, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop
  • Key Concepts:
    • Promotional Vehicle, Bus Wrapping & Car Branding: Understanding the scope of vehicle graphics.
    • Measurements: Accurate measurement and templating for vehicle surfaces.
    • Vehicle Branding Design: Adapting designs to curves and contours.
    • PSD Mock-Up Presentation: Creating realistic mockups of branded vehicles.
    • Materials: Understanding Premium Cast Vinyl SAV (Matt or Gloss, One-Way Vision (aka Window Graphics)).
    • Printing: Large-format printing for vehicle wraps.
    • Branding Types: Basic Spot graphics, Spot Graphics, Partial Wrap, and Full Wrap.
    • Finishing: Lamination and application techniques (brief overview).
    • Cost Estimation: Budgeting for vehicle branding projects.
  • Class Project: Design a full vehicle wrap for a mobile food truck, creating a visually striking and brand-consistent design on a vehicle template.

 

Module 21: Corporate Identity Branding (Comprehensive Integration)

 

This module synthesizes all learned skills to develop a complete corporate identity system.

  • Software Focus: All applications (Integrated Project)
  • Key Concepts:
    • Corporate Identity Elements: Typography, Colors, Form/Shape, Logo, Slogan, Design System, Illustration, Iconography, Data Visualization, Interactive Elements, Video, and Motion, Product Packaging, Social Media Handles, Corporate Profile Design, Website Branding.
    • Brand Strategy / Positioning: Understanding the strategic foundation of a brand.
    • Brand Audit: Analyzing existing brand elements.
    • Market Research: Gathering insights into target audience and competitors.
    • Competitive Analysis: Studying competitor branding.
    • Creative Brief: Developing a comprehensive document outlining design requirements.
    • Brand / ReBrand Design: The process of creating a new brand identity or refreshing an existing one.
  • Class Project: Develop a comprehensive corporate identity manual for a new or re-branded company. This project will include a refined logo, color palette, typography guidelines, stationery, and applications for various media (e.g., social media profile, basic website layout).

 

Module 22: Building Your Professional Portfolio

 

This module guides students through the process of curating and presenting their design work effectively.

  • Software Focus: Adobe InDesign, Web-based Portfolio Platforms
  • Key Concepts:
    • Idea Generation: Brainstorming portfolio themes and content.
    • Conceptualization, Development, and Refinement of Design Systems: Presenting projects as part of a cohesive system.
    • Marketing Yourself and Your Work: Strategies for showcasing skills and attracting clients.
    • Designing a Personal Identity System: Creating your own brand as a designer.
    • Package Design Project: Including detailed packaging designs in the portfolio.
    • Design Campaign: Presenting comprehensive campaign work.
  • Class Project: Develop a professional digital portfolio (PDF and/or online) showcasing your best work from the course, including project descriptions and a personal branding statement.

 

Module 23: Advanced Layout Design (Adobe InDesign)

 

This module focuses on sophisticated multi-page layout techniques and compositional principles.

  • Software Focus: Adobe InDesign
  • Key Concepts:
    • Elements of Composition and Layout Design: Advanced application of balance, rhythm, emphasis, and unity in complex layouts.
    • Creating Dynamic Typography Composition in Multi-page Layout: Using grids, baselines, and advanced text wrapping.
    • Creating Unified Systems out of Dissimilar Elements: Integrating diverse visual assets seamlessly.
    • Multi-page Layout Planning: Strategic planning for long-form documents.
  • Class Project: Design a multi-page annual report for a major corporation, demonstrating advanced layout techniques, infographics, and data visualization.

 

Module 24: Packaging and Display Design (Illustrator, Photoshop, 3D Mockups)

 

This module deepens the understanding of structural and graphic packaging design.

  • Software Focus: Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, 3D Mockup Software/Techniques
  • Key Concepts:
    • Design of Packaging and Displays: Understanding functional and aesthetic requirements.
    • Three-dimensional Considerations: Designing for physical form and structure.
    • Creating an Innovative and Functional Design: Ensuring packaging protects, presents, and communicates effectively.
    • Conceptualization – Visually and Verbally: Developing strong ideas and articulating them.
    • Sketching Ideas in Rough Form: Rapid prototyping of packaging concepts.
    • Use of Innovative Materials and Shape Solutions: Exploring sustainable and unique packaging options.
    • Real-world Packaging Case Studies: Analyzing successful and unsuccessful packaging designs.
    • Packaging Projects: Applying learned principles to diverse packaging needs.
  • Class Project: Design a series of packaging for a new line of organic food products, considering sustainability, shelf appeal, and clear communication of product benefits.

 

Module 25: Advanced Text and Image Positioning (Adobe InDesign, Photoshop)

 

This module refines skills in integrating text and images for powerful visual narratives.

  • Software Focus: Adobe InDesign, Adobe Photoshop
  • Key Concepts:
    • Typographic, Compositional, and Imaging Skills: Integrating all aspects for harmonious design.
    • Design of Series, Sequence, and Publications: Creating cohesive visual narratives across multiple pieces.
    • Composition of Visual Information using Grid Structures: Advanced grid system application for complex data.
    • Informational / Expressive Aspects of Graphic Design: Balancing clarity with emotional impact.
    • Hierarchical Relationship of Visual Elements: Guiding the viewer’s eye through complex information.
    • Inter-relationships between Pictures and Words: Creating synergy between visual and textual content.
    • Series, Sequence, and Narrative using Point-Oriented Media: Designing for storytelling across different media types.
  • Class Project: Design a complete editorial spread (e.g., for a high-end fashion magazine) that effectively combines compelling photography, engaging typography, and a sophisticated grid system to tell a visual story.

 

Module 26: Introduction to Digital Photography / Image-Making (Adobe Photoshop)

 

This module provides foundational knowledge in digital photography for graphic designers.

  • Software Focus: Practical Photography, Adobe Photoshop (Basic Image Prep)
  • Key Concepts:
    • Photographic Styles: Understanding different genres and aesthetics.
    • Camera Handling: Basic operation and care of a DSLR or mirrorless camera.
    • The SLR / Basic DSLR Settings: ISO, Shutter Speed, Aperture.
    • File Management: Organizing and backing up photographic assets.
    • Necessary Gears: Essential equipment for basic photography.
    • The Sensors and Mirrors: Understanding how digital cameras capture images.
    • Full Frame vs Crop Sensor: Differences in sensor size and their impact.
    • Light, Movement, and Meaningful Composition: Principles of effective visual storytelling through photography.
    • White Balance: Achieving accurate color representation.
    • Intro to Light: Understanding natural and artificial light.
  • Class Project: Conduct a small photoshoot (e.g., product photography for a local artisan) focusing on lighting, composition, and basic camera settings.

 

Module 27: Photo / Image Editing Fundamentals (Adobe Photoshop)

 

This module introduces essential photo editing techniques in Adobe Photoshop.

  • Software Focus: Adobe Photoshop
  • Key Concepts:
    • Basic Color Settings: Calibrating monitors and setting color profiles.
    • Using the Crop Tool: Straightening and reframing images.
    • Straightening Photographs: Correcting crooked horizons.
    • Using AutoFill with Content-Aware Crop: Intelligently extending backgrounds.
    • Using the Spot Healing Brush: Removing small imperfections.
    • Introduction to Layers: Non-destructive editing with layers.
    • Layers Masking: Selectively revealing or hiding parts of a layer.
    • Backgrounds: Removing or replacing image backgrounds.
  • Class Project: Select 5-7 raw images and apply fundamental editing techniques (cropping, straightening, basic color correction, spot removal, background removal/replacement).

 

Module 28: Photo Editing / Retouching – Part A (Adobe Photoshop)

 

This module delves into more advanced photo retouching techniques.

  • Software Focus: Adobe Photoshop
  • Key Concepts:
    • Spot Removal: Advanced techniques for blemish removal.
    • Fixes: Addressing common photographic issues (e.g., red-eye, dust spots).
    • Color Grading / Frequency Separation: Advanced color manipulation and skin retouching techniques.
    • Handling Camera Raw: Non-destructive editing of raw image files.
  • Class Project: Retouch a portrait photograph, focusing on skin smoothing (using frequency separation or similar techniques), color grading, and overall enhancement.

 

Module 29: Photo Editing / Retouching – Part B (Adobe Photoshop)

 

This module continues with specialized retouching and introduces working with fictitious briefs.

  • Software Focus: Adobe Photoshop
  • Key Concepts:
    • Dodge and Burn: Sculpting light and shadow for depth and dimension.
    • Fictitious Briefs: Working on simulated client projects with specific requirements.
    • Editing Modeling / Makeup Portraits: Specialized techniques for beauty retouching.
    • Using the Retouching Academy: Exploring advanced retouching workflows and resources.
  • Class Project: Work on a provided “fictitious brief” requiring advanced photo retouching and manipulation for a product advertisement or a beauty campaign.

 

Module 30: Photo Manipulation and Final Portfolio Presentation

 

This culminating module combines advanced image editing with creative manipulation and focuses on the final portfolio showcase.

  • Software Focus: Adobe Photoshop (Primary), all other software for portfolio integration.
  • Key Concepts:
    • Photo Manipulation: Creating composite images, surreal scenes, and conceptual art using multiple photographic elements.
    • Advanced Blending Modes and Layer Styles: Achieving seamless integration.
    • Color Correction and Grading for Composites: Ensuring visual harmony across disparate images.
    • FINAL DESIGN PROJECT PORTFOLIO PRESENTATION: Preparing and delivering a professional presentation of your entire portfolio.
  • Class Project: Design a complex photo manipulation piece (e.g., a conceptual advertisement, a surreal landscape) demonstrating advanced Photoshop skills. Simultaneously, refine and finalize your complete design portfolio, preparing for a formal presentation and critique.

 

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