Design speaks to each of us in a universal language. No matter your native tongue, excellence in design can intrigue, inspire and stir one’s emotions—no words needed (but really, if you enter type-driven design, that’s cool, too).

No matter where in the world you reside, entries are judged by project type rather than industry or region. That means posters are up against posters, packaging against packaging, identity design against—you get the point.If you think your work has the ability to ignite passion and imagination the world over, this competition is calling your name.

Designers, this is the moment you stop wishing and start winning! Enter now, and keep up with our social media for the latest design inspiration!

(Source: howdesign.com)

Out of all of the projects we’ve posted on this year, there are ten that stood out for the creators’ originality and their ability to inspire us to no end. These made us stand back in awe, almost in disbelief that someone could not only think of such a creative idea but execute on it so flawlessly.

While in some cases it was a collaborative effort involving many people, in still others only one person was involved, who dedicated countless hours to completing his or her seemingly insurmountable task.

They challenged us to push our own creative limits and asked us to see the world in a remarkably different way. As we start off the new year, may these people inspire you to pick up that project you’ve been meaning to get to or start taking those lessons you’ve been putting off. Here’s to making 2012 your personal best year ever. (Source: mymodernmet.com)

Whether you know an amateur or professional photographer, there’s nothing more satisfying than giving a new gadget to make their lives easier or jazz up their gear. Luckily, there’s no shortage of interesting and creative gifts for your favorite photography lover.

Whether it’s a colorful new camera strap or a handy light meter you can easily attach to your smartphone, you don’t necessarily have to break the bank to gift something the photographer in your life will appreciate. Unsure of what would work as a great gift? Think about what would be helpful. A stylish bag to haul gear? Or a way to enhance a phone’s image taking capabilities? With a little searching, it’s all possible.

Fortunately, we’ve taken some of the guesswork out of your shopping by pulling together 10 creative and unique gifts that will be sure to make your favorite photographer smile. (Source: mymodernmet.com)

With today’s technology, it’s easier than ever for photographers to create images that are not only breathtaking but also ignite our sense of wonder. Often, this is through photo manipulation in programs like Photoshop. But photographer Mathias Fast has recently introduced a fantastic photography hack that will give your images a fantastical, ethereal feel without you having to know your way around a computer.

(Although it helps.) He simply uses his phone screen to add a reflective element to an image that makes an otherwise grounded composition feel like it’s floating.

There are a number of benefits to this clever photography trick, which requires nothing more than a smartphone and DSLR camera. “By using a phone screen as a reflective surface,” Fast explains, “it is possible to cover up unsightly elements, add intrigue, and make an image that much more interesting.” (Source: mymodernmet.com)

Digital marketing encompasses all marketing efforts that use an electronic device or the internet. Businesses leverage digital channels such as search engines, social media, email, and their websites to connect with current and prospective customers.

It is. In fact, “constant” internet usage among adults increased by 5% in just the last three years, according to Pew Research. And although we say it a lot, the way people shop and buy really has changed along with it — meaning offline marketing isn’t as effective as it used to be.

Marketing has always been about connecting with your audience in the right place and at the right time. Today, that means you need to meet them where they are already spending time: on the internet. (Source: blog.hubspot.com)

New to graphic design? You’re in the right place. Discover the most crucial skills, tools, and techniques for graphic designers today, and which courses you need to kick-start your career. Learn about the importance of planning and sketching, and tap into your inner creativity with a couple of brainstorming techniques.

Explore the building blocks of design—color, typography, and layout—and the main goals of projects like logos and other common design jobs, so you step off on the right foot. Then find out how to get started with essential design software, including InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, and more.

Then find out how to get started with essential design software, including InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, and more. Finally, get tips on digital output options and how to navigate a print job successfully so you have a flawless execution.
(Source: lynda.com)