Although it has only been a couple of months in the program thus far, I have learned quite a bit already. The Visual Media-centered modules seem like a joy to work in. My first module was Interaction Design, and I am just now getting into the Narrative Filmmaking module. The knowledge gained from these classes I think will be beneficial to my skill set. I am fascinated by motion design and learning the various other modules in the future. The photography/videography field definitely goes hand in hand with Graphic Design. Learning even the basics can transcend your skills as a designer, leading to more creativity in your own designs. I have been dabbling in photography a little bit so I can learn how to take my own photos and repurpose them for my own designs. This just gives my own designs that extra ‘oomph’ that makes a design that much more special. I tend to try and do everything myself when it comes to art mediums. I rarely let other people do the work for me, which can be a blessing and a curse I suppose. All in all, There is much to learn about the Visual Media side of the program.
Getting more into motion design, I think this area could really catapult me to a new level with my designs and ideas. Motion design is not as common with graphic designers and can really bring energy to a piece of work. It is also important to take note that the visual hierarchy is important to learn first before jumping into motion design. The movement in a piece can affect the visual hierarchy in a piece, so it is crucial to understand the complexity in which motion design can hold. Even if the movement is very subtle it can take over a piece and draw in the viewer’s eye. I am unsure of what the other modules hold, but hopefully, in the After Effects module, I can build upon this new area of design. I have some prior knowledge of After Effects, but very little. A struggle I had on my own is my workflow in these unfamiliar programs. I was quite slow, so that is another area I would like to excel in.
So far in my Narrative Filmmaking class, I have learned so much about the different shots that movies and shows will use to convey certain feelings. Previously, I was unaware of this going on in movies and shows until now. That really struck a chord with me and see it as quite a fascinating field to learn about. Initially, I would not think much about the film side, so I am glad to be exposed to this field in a way I can take and use for conveying an emotion even in my own design compositions. The idea of merging these two programs together I think is interesting and when I looked into the Graphic Design program, it was one of the times when I felt like this program specifically could help me grow and become the person I want to be.