Dream Chasers

“All men dream, but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds, wake in the day to find that it was vanity; but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men for they may act on their dreams with open eyes, to make them possible.”  - T.E. Lawrence

A dream chaser is much more than a Meek Mill album. A dream chaser is a person with the COURAGE to follow their heart. I stress on COURAGE because for a very long time I didn’t understand what that meant. Dream chasers take risks to make their dreams a reality, they truly believe that they will succeed at their dreams. That alone in itself is courageous, but hard work and sacrifices play a huge part.

When you spend a lot of your time with people without dreams, its easy to feel like they don’t understand you, or even worse, you start to doubt yourself.

I worked every day sitting opposite someone who told me I’m always coming up with these crazy business ideas. Hearing that week after week. I myself thought my ideas were a bit far fetched. But, sometimes life just has a way of pointing you in the right direction, and getting you right where you need to be. All you have to do is jump.

It’s been four months since I left my full time job. My only regret is that it took me almost two years to get out of that negative environment. A 2.5-hour commute, no creative freedom, an unimaginative, a sly snake of a supervisor, the kind of environment where words of advice are “Trust no one”, salary was frequently cut, the director, a Mexican version of Jafar and worst of all, creativity was frowned upon. It was a stifling environment to say the least.

Two days before I resigned, I cleared out my desk, wrote my resignation and never sent it. Before I got the courage to, I was called into a disciplinary meeting and told I would be suspended for poor punctuality regardless of me working late hours and going above and beyond my role as a Graphic Designer.

So I choose to resign, and I cried.

I cried because of the uncertainty of my future. Regardless of how shitty my colleagues or my job was, it gave me a form of security and I was scared to continue not knowing what my next move was, until I had no choice.

Today, after all these months, I had the most amazingly fulfilling day I could ever imagine. I’ve heard horror stories of what freelancers go through. How some months are tough, no work comes in, they are always working, it’s near impossible to take a vacation. I can tell you from experience, that these things are only true, if you have a negative perspective.

I used to be angry, upset and annoyed all the time. I suffered from back pains and headaches. But now I only get pain from pushing too hard in the gym. I wake up every day excited, I’m eating better and working out often, I’ve lost seven pounds since, I even went to Tobago for work! I go to bed when I want, I wake up when I want, I spend time with my family, and I work in my pajamas. I love life. I get time to write, draw, paint, read and sleep. It’s not perfect, but coming from the job I just left, this is a heaven on earth.

For the first time ever, I feel like I’m going to be okay.

What Makes A Good Business Logo

So you have your own business. You do a great job, and you start to stack up satisfied customers one after the other. To you, this is the most important part of your business. But another equally important part is how you are represented. You want to make sure your public image effectively represents all the great things about your business. There is no singular device which represents your company’s image more than your logo. It is the face of your company, and should portray all the values and dreams which you embody.

But what makes a good logo?
Before I answer that, I’m going to address all the popular beliefs about what deems a logo ‘good’. My only hope is that after reading this, you can be better equipped in making a decision when it comes to your logo.

There are millions of articles on this very topic. What makes a good logo? If you do a little research, you will come across the Five major components of a good logo.
 
It is recommended that a logo be:
· Simple
· Memorable
· Timeless
· Versatile
· Appropriate

These Five components are based on similarities that the most recognized brands all have in common. It doesn’t mean that if your logo doesn’t meet this criteria, it’s deemed ‘bad’. Take the popular Starbucks logo for example.


Rules are meant to be broken
There’s nothing really simple about it, lots of lines, stars, circles and even a depiction of a human face. I wouldn’t characterize this as versatile either, it’s not one color and if printed too small, the details can be lost. In terms of appropriateness, what does a Sprite have to do with coffee? But, despite not meeting all five components that make a good logo, this logo is one of the most recognized in the world. This logo is proof that the five major components that make up a good logo don’t really exist.

I used Starbucks as an example, because it’s an internationally recognized brand. There are many local (Trinidad) companies that have also successfully “broken the rules of logo design” with successful logos.

Very regularly your designer will suggest to you that your logo should be less than three colors, including the background, which makes it versatile and simple. While this is widely suggested in the industry, it isn’t necessarily true.

For example: Guardian Group 

The Guardian Group Logo colorful masterpiece doesn’t stick to the rules that logos must be less than 2-3 colors, or simple. It’s near impossible to convert this to black and white and keep the integrity of the logo.

While this logo in it’s colorful glory is beautiful. There are downsides to having such a colorful logo. Mainly, the cost of printing. Which is why, your designer would suggest 2-3 colors at most, especially for startups and small businesses.


Following the rules do not necessarily guarantee success
Less color doesn’t necessarily mean it’s going to work. Here is an example of the CCC logo or, Civilian Conservation Corps Logo.

I personally have no idea what this company does, the name doesn’t ring a bell and the colors don’t say much either. As simple as this logo is, something about it makes it difficult to comprehend. The awkward way the colors meet to create that obscure ‘c’ shape, the harsh points at the end, and the overly mundane font choice. While there are many bad things to say about this logo, there are also positives, it can be converted to a single color, keeping the integrity of the logo and it’s cost effective to print. 

This logo follows the Five rules much more that the previously mentioned logo’s and doesn’t nearly have as much of an impact that the previously mentioned logos.

…but sometimes it does…with the help of good marketing
How about we examine a logo that follows ALL Five rules?



The Blue Waters logo: Simple, Memorable, Timeless, Versatile and Appropriate. It doesn’t get much simpler than this; one distinct color, for affordable printing and the appropriateness of the blue color used as it’s the name of the brand. This Logo is definitely Memorable, while it’s simplicity may be a big factor in it’s memorability, there is also another important aspect that we haven’t discussed yet, which plays a huge part in the Memorability and Timelessness of logos. That is Marketing. Because it is a logo that you see daily, it is easily recognized. The fact that this logo is barely more than bold letters makes it even easier to remember. The fact is, as unimaginative as this logo is, it works. It works because of it’s simplicity, and because it’s a product that is seen every single day. When you think “Trinidad Bottled Water” there is only one name that comes to mind, and that is not because of the logo.

So what really makes good logo???
There are many beliefs on what makes a good logo. There is only one which I think is a necessary in the creation of a logo, and this is that it should Properly Represents Your Company. Your logo should represent all the wonderful things about your company. It should capture your struggles, your dreams and aspirations, your values and invoke intense thoughts about your product. Everything else is secondary. It is also important to keep in mind, when you are searching for logo design information, to take it all as a guide. The vision for your company should dictate what your logo should be.

I hope this helps when it comes time to design your business logo, and remember to use your instinct and that gut feeling to know what is best for you. Your designer should be able to help you make the best decisions, and if he/she isn’t, don’t worry, I’m here to help.

Cheers,

Priya
( ilikebeanstalks )

How to become a Photographer

For a very long time I didn't consider myself a photographer, even to this day, when people ask if I am a photographer, I don't really know what to say. I started just saying yes, because I've been paid to take and edit pictures. I take decent pictures and I'm always capturing more, this I assume is the definition of a photographer.

In art school I had one photography class, at which point I was completely uninterested in picture taking. I had friends studying photography specifically; how do I expect to be at the same level of these full time photographers with one class. I always thought photography is for photographers, and I am not one of those. This kind of thinking limited me for a long time.

I had basic knowledge of photography: shutter speed, f-stops, exposure time and framing. So to consider myself a non-photographer was only making me a non-photographer. My go-to line was, “I know how to use a professional camera, I take decent pictures, but I'm not a photographer.” This was all before...before I got a full-time job in the cosmetic industry...before I had a camera, studio and lights at my disposal...before I knew that being able to take my own pictures would be an incredible asset.

It started with one slow day at work... I learned through trial and error how to take product pictures, how to set up the lighting; I even took portraits for the executives. Up to this day I still consider myself an amateur photographer, but nonetheless I am a photographer, and since then, I have successfully delved into the world of video and meddled in animation.

I always say that the difference between good and great is practice, and that is what I do every time I pick up the camera. I have seen this work many times, with my designing, painting, driving and call of duty. In every aspect of my life, the more I do something, the better I am at it. By saying I am not something and not attempt it, I am only limiting myself. The reality is, I am everything, all I have to do, is to do.

Strangers ask me for photography advice, I now teach Photoshop and I have my own studio. Three years ago I would have never thought I would be so invested in something I always thought I would never be good at.

Since the beginning of this photography endeavor I have always been more comfortable in the studio, maybe it's because it's where I first got to experiment; I have a strange love for setting up my studio space, whether it be for product or people, my understanding of lighting has helped me use whatever I have available to help me achieve what I want.  You should know that, no one is born with these skills, everyone is born with potential and it is all up to you to turn that potential into something.

Refusing to try something new because it’s, “not in your job description”, or because you, “have never done it before” are poor excuses. This kind of attitude does not promote growth. Of course, there is always a limit. You should always be compensated for your work, if not with experience, then financially. But, refusing to try, lack of self belief and drive is what differentiates the greats from the mediocre, the photographers from the photographees, the dreamers from the dream.

Hello, My name is "Unreliable"

So, last week I wrote about recognition. I think we can all agree that, while recognition isn't necessary, it cannot hurt. This week, I want to talk about the opposite, insults and negativity or "bad talk".



We are all survivors of this, and it is impossible to avoid it. People are more likely to take notice of the bad than the good, it is a human flaw.

I personally have been a recent victim of this, and though I live my life doing the best I can do, and not worrying about the negativity - sometimes a vicious tongue cannot simply be ignored.

Recently, my superior has been running around town associating me with the word "unreliable". Now that's not so bad, I’ve been called worst things before, but I am at the point in my life, where such negative comments, hurts my reputation, affecting my livelihood and quite honestly my feelings.

What makes this a tough pill to swallow is, I cannot deny that I am unreliable. In this persons eye, I do not meet HIS standards of reliability. Therefore, I am unreliable. I of course do not feel this way. I may have many flaws, but unreliability is not one of them. I am not the kind of person to point fingers or make excuses, that is wasting time, I a problem-solver by profession and professionally I'm not going to say, well I didn't get it done because.... No. I will apologize and try not to make the mistake again. So I ask you, does this make me unreliable?

I am very, very good at what I do, look at my reviews, my personal clients all talk about my efficiency. Because this is what I strive to be. As a freelancer, clients are always worried about time, they worry that they might just be one small fish in a school of fish and I won't give them the time and dedication they deserve. I strive to be efficient, I will turn down work if I don't have the time and I will tell my clients an honest time frame. So, it definitely hurts to hear negativity on the very same thing I try to avoid.

Now, I am not the most reliable person ever, but I am not, dare I say "unreliable". I am reliable. When you give me a deadline, I will work to my best to meet this, and 9 out of 10 times, I do. My issue is with unrealistic deadlines, I still give it my all, because I don't believe in half-assing anything. I believe in doing the best you can do with what you are given. I cannot turn shit into gold, and if that is your expectation, then yes, I am unreliable. In Engineering, 9/10 is characterized as unreliable, if this is true, then nothing is reliable. Then reliability is as rare as an unicorn.

This superior of mine did not just say it once, but has been literally running around town preaching it. Everyone says to me, it's not a big deal; just prove him wrong, which is basically do as you do. But still, I have difficulty concentrating, keeping motivated and producing. I'm confused by this attack and it makes it even more difficult to stay on track. In essence, it makes it true.

If you run around preaching the sky is green, and repeat it enough, people will start believing you. A perfect example is,

“15 minutes can save you 15% or more on car insurance.”

This has been repeated so many times, it is basically fact. It doesn't matter that it might be a crock-of-shit. The message has been repeated so many times, it is accepted as truth.

I am at the point now, where I am questioning my own reliability. This negativity has instilled self-doubt in me. I am questioning everything I do, I am unsure of myself. This self-doubt in itself, has made me unreliable, though the accusations are untrue, the mare fact that these accusation exist, has put doubt, not only in myself, but I am sure in those who have heard the accusations.

Now I am walking on eggshells, my confidence - low and anxiety - high. I’m not sure what my next play will be. Do I do nothing? Do I say something? Do I ignore it? The threat does exist, and I have an undying urge to deal with it. But, like a bause, I will take the high road, I know what I know, and I know who I am.

Chill | Relax | Breath & Get Though It.

Hey everybody! Look at me!

We like to say that recognition is not as important as seeing your ideas come to life. But that’s a lie. It doesn't matter how much you love or hate your job, hobby or craft, recognition is key in keeping it going. You learn to perfect your craft, not only because you enjoy it, but to also share it with friends, family and people who share your interest.

When people show interest, it makes you more absorbed in what you do. It drives you, it inspires you, it pushes you to be better and accomplish greater things. Constantly creating, without recognition, makes you stagnate. It makes you uninterested; you lose your drive; you lose your purpose. While you still produce pieces of art or crafts, it becomes difficult, it seems harder. Though, most people may have started for love and not for the praise, once others show interest, it motivates you to want to continue. To be better...

Others being interested in the same things is essential to producing quality work. Not just to share an interest, but to bounce ideas off other people, to discuss topics, to learn and to educate. It is essential, especially in a creative field. Andy Warhol had the factory, which did exactly that. Not just painters, but musicians, actresses and writers, all different people with common interest. Today while it should be easier to connect with similar people, (thank you Internet) I still find it most difficult.

This kind of sharing, in the Warhol example I mentioned, has little to do with recognition, and more about critiques from your peers. In an informal setting, critiques really help you see your work from a different perspective. It helps you grow, and shows you your strong points and weak points. It’s like a screening, and you get to go back and tweak things, to make sure your end product is the best it can be.

Maybe recognition isn't really the word I should use, but, just as interest from your peers is fulfilling, so is genuine interest from a total stranger. It is easier to produce work knowing your work inspires others. When you have support, the juices keep flowing. While, personal satisfaction is great, and gives you energy to keep doing it. Recognition is a whole other energy on its own.

When I take a good picture I'm always excited to share it. When I paint or design it's the same thing. The more people recognize, the more fulfilled I feel, and the more I want to create.

Maybe it’s just me; maybe I’m just an attention whore. Maybe I’m sitting here writing this like, “Hey everybody! Look at me!” Maybe this whole blog post was just an attention seeking ploy to get you to read this entire BS article and make you feel guilty enough to hire me… or maybe not.

You can contact me for jobs at priyamahabir@gmail.com

Every Mistake I've Made

Everyone makes mistakes; unfortunately this doesn’t make it any easier to forgive. I myself, am no stranger to mistakes, from spelling errors, to giving wrong change, to a moment of uncensored truth, to belligerent drunkard mistakes, we’ve all been there.

While some mistakes can be classed as being more serious than others, it is important it remember that mistakes do happen.

There are two general types of mistakes.

1. Mistakes that you have no idea you made, and
2. Mistakes that you knowingly make, in hopes that you will get away with it.

This is the essential difference between why some mistakes are forgiven and others are not. I try to give people the benefit of the doubt, most of the time, and some people even call me a push over.

I understand that people make mistakes and I’m not the kind of person that even needs an apology to forgive and forget, but, people should be aware of their wrongs in order to correct themselves. It is healthy for a person to make a mistake and learn from it. What seems to be the norm, is the higher the punishment the more a person will not repeat the mistake. You can see examples of this everywhere, not just in the workplace. Criminal Law, Traffic Regulations, In Relationships, At Home. We were taught from a very young age, when you do something wrong you are punished, and that is how we learn from our mistakes.

The cycles goes: Error – Punishment – Lesson Learnt. But what if we could change this cycle, to replace punishment with correction.

In the book, “How To Win Friends And Influence People”, Dale Carnegie tells a story of a past US president (I don’t remember which), who went flying. The mechanic that day, accidentally put the wrong fuel in the airplane, causing the plane to come crashing down in mid-flight.

Can you imagine how terrible the mechanic would have felt? The President walked up to the mechanic, and told him to prepare another airplane for him to fly the very next day. Of course, it was smooth flying the next day, because the mechanic was given the opportunity to redeem himself, he learnt a lesson, without punishment, but instead with the opportunity to correct his errors.

This way of thinking is essential for a better society of individuals. Again, not just in the workplace or laws, but in the home, it is important to teach this kind of thinking form a young age. I think it’s bad enough that people have to already live with the mistakes they made, to add punishment on top of that, is over kill.

I’m not saying no to any kind of punishment ever. What I’m saying is to try correcting a mistake before punishing.

The Client Is Always Right

If you aren't going to do your best, then don't do it at all.

In the design industry, we are continuously taught, "the client is always right". There are even documentaries, short films and sketches all based on this. It is more than just a saying, it is a rule.

While this might be true, it is also your job to educate your clients. This is, by far, the most difficult part of designing.

How many of you have done work that you would never show anyone, EVER. You have 10 flawless works of art; printed, mounted, labeled and placed in a portfolio, ready to show off. Meanwhile, you have a hard drive full of work, you would down right lie to anyone who accused you of creating such horrid pieces. Don't feel bad, we all have a dark past. But there come a time in every designers life, were you have to decide if this is really want you want. I believe you should always do your best or don't do it at all.

For example, sometimes clients ask you to do things that you know are wrong, like a pixel logo. You know what constitutes a strong logo, but the client insist on a picture image. Imagine you DID do that, then someone comes along and tells your client what a terrible logo that is. I bet you everything I own, that the client will not say "Well...that's what I wanted". They'll say, "that's what my paid designer did for me."



Working in an industry that depends on referrals, that's not a good idea. The more work you get the better each piece has to be. Your work is your marketing strategy. It is your advertising and putting out work you cannot be proud of is fast route to career suicide.

So, quote high but fairly, estimate deadlines with enough time for finesse, educate clients and always produce work you can be proud of, or just quit now.

A client came to me for a logo, I quoted double what I would usually charge, because what she wanted was a full intricate illustration, not a logo, and honestly, I felt like she was so set in her way of thinking that for me to try and convince her otherwise was double the work.

Actually creating the logo she wanted was never really an option for me, I would rather not do it at all than to create a shitty logo. Sure I missed out on a potential client, but I'm not just a designer. I don't just slap graphics on a page and make it look pretty.

People come to designers to solve problems, and that is what I do, creatively and as effectively as I can. I make creative solutions, and I have been formally taught, with working experience and knowledge to properly execute my solutions.

If what a client wants is just someone to do as he wants, then I am not the designer for him.

By cutting out "bad clients", I enjoy what I do a lot more, I am more productive, less stressed and I develop a real care for my clients and their business.

Everyone wins.