Show us your business Card!

[Angelo]

Ok, after chewing on this a while, how about this:
http://forums.shaystephens.com/graphics/shay_card2.jpg

I got rid of the redundant name as much as possible. I also decided to rotate the logo/contact info since things just were not fitting right. There is a visual contrast in the two rotations that I find interesting.

Shay - I like this version. I think you've done a great job. 2 little nits. The length of your URL and telephone number run longer than your title. Reduce the font one point or realign to reduce a space. Also, the phone number font is causing a "crooked" line. This is fairly common in the numerals table of a lot of fonts. Choose a font with a consistent baseline and use it for both the number and URL. "Goudy" is a family of fonts that will give you consistency and balance in the styles.

[Khaos]

I decided to go from bleeding eyes to keep it simple, stupid.

http://creative-khaos.smugmug.com/photos/51334138-L.jpg

[Shay Stephens]

Ok, here is a question. My business card is being designed in conjunction with my website redesign (not yet launched). Should I be concerned about keeping a consistancy of fonts for both the card and the website? Or does that not matter?

When I dropped the arial font of the card, I did the same thing on the website. I have to work with that for a few days to see if I will get used to the new look.

[DavidTO]

Ok, here is a question. My business card is being designed in conjunction with my website redesign (not yet launched). Should I be concerned about keeping a consistancy of fonts for both the card and the website? Or does that not matter?

When I dropped the arial font of the card, I did the same thing on the website. I have to work with that for a few days to see if I will get used to the new look.


I don't think you need to be real strict about the two matching. Mine don't. (Then again, I'm not in business!)

[Midnitsage]

When I dropped the Ariel font of the card, I did the same thing on the website. I have to work with that for a few days to see if I will get used to the new look.

i wouldn't completely ditch the Sans serif font for you email and phone number. It's a nice compliment to your business name. Just try to find one that the number sit on the baseline.

[pat.kane]

Shay, beautiful card you have there!

I think it would benefit slightly from leaving a little more room to the left of the groom. He looks like he's about to fall off the edge.

[Shay Stephens]

Ok, as I like to say, if one thing doesn't work, try another. I dumped my design in favor of a two sided card, dumped the logo in favor of a new one, and generally continued the simplification idea.

Here is the new front:
http://forums.shaystephens.com/graphics/shay_card3.jpg

And here is the back:
http://forums.shaystephens.com/graphics/shay_card3a.jpg


...annnnddd...I'm spent! :wink

Thank you all for your feedback.

[DavidTO]

Very, very nice, Shay. I like it a lot. You're done.

[LiquidOps]

Very, very nice, Shay. I like it a lot. You're done.

hmmmm

I do like the concept... nice, simple, to the point...

however... my eye first went to the huge logo and the word "Artistic"

I read SARTISTIC

just seems weird that the S has a cool shadow, but the P doesn't...

maybe i'm too picky... but oh well :) gotta love me anyway :lust :dunno

Steven

[Antonio Correia]

Shay: Your card is Very very nice.:thumb
Best regards:thumb

[DavidTO]

hmmmm

I do like the concept... nice, simple, to the point...

however... my eye first went to the huge logo and the word "Artistic"

I read SARTISTIC

just seems weird that the S has a cool shadow, but the P doesn't...



Shay Stephens Photography

[Shay Stephens]

Shay Stephens Photography
The sharp-eyed man gets the prize!!! :D:D:D

I like some visual conflict in a card that makes the viewer have to stop and think about the card for a second. In this case, the stylized SSP.

[DavidTO]

The sharp-eyed man gets the prize!!! :D:D:D



I will PM you my addy so you can send the prize on...

[Shay Stephens]

I just wanted to say thank you to those who offered advice and comments. I also wanted to thank specifically the following (in order of appearance):

Gus (http://www.digitalgrin.com/showpost.php?p=96101&postcount=40) - your card rocks, inspiration for me, breaking the rules.

Angelo (http://www.digitalgrin.com/showpost.php?p=188096&postcount=47) - Your card was an inspiration in white space. Also thank you for your suggestions.

W.W. Webster (http://www.digitalgrin.com/showpost.php?p=188217&postcount=51) - Your book suggestion was a good one. It helped me a lot. And your criticism and input in the thread was appreciated.

Brandofamily (http://www.digitalgrin.com/showpost.php?p=229076&postcount=89) - Your "bi" logo was inspirational to me. I had been looking for a way to make a square logo for some time, and your idea helped me.

ian408 (http://www.digitalgrin.com/showpost.php?p=230096&postcount=95) - Your example of white space was inspirational to me.

vangogh (http://www.digitalgrin.com/showpost.php?p=230476&postcount=113) - Your bold design was inspirational.

AprilVisel (http://www.digitalgrin.com/showpost.php?p=234655&postcount=174) - Just flat out beautiful and elegant. Very inspirational.

Midnitsage (http://www.digitalgrin.com/showpost.php?p=271466&postcount=225) - I really appreciated your criticism and posting the tips, they were very beneficial to me.

DavidTO (http://www.digitalgrin.com/showpost.php?p=273927&postcount=244) - Thank you for your herculean efforts at providing continued good advice in this thread. It helped me a lot.

I am sure there are others I am forgetting to mention, to them thank you :D

[DavidTO]

W.W. Webster (http://www.digitalgrin.com/showpost.php?p=188217&postcount=51) - Your book suggestion was a good one. It helped me a lot. And your criticism and input in the thread was appreciated.



FYI to all: there's a review of the aforementioned book here (http://dgrin.smugmug.com/gallery/1278165). It's a great book.

[Andy]

I love this!
c) I dare you to lose the word "photography"

This is such a cool concept :deal

[LiquidOps]

Shay Stephens Photography

I realize what it stands for... that was never a question...

I was simply stating what my mind first wandered to.

yes... it made me give it a second look, but a lot of times, you're not gonna get that second look. Sometimes first thoughts are all you get.

Maybe i'm too picky for my own good, but it still bothers me....

Steven

[Shay Stephens]

Does this help?

http://forums.shaystephens.com/graphics/shay_card4.jpg


I realize what it stands for... that was never a question...

I was simply stating what my mind first wandered to.

yes... it made me give it a second look, but a lot of times, you're not gonna get that second look. Sometimes first thoughts are all you get.

Maybe i'm too picky for my own good, but it still bothers me....

Steven

[LiquidOps]

Does this help?

http://forums.shaystephens.com/graphics/shay_card4.jpg

I definately think it adds more seperation... I like

:thumb :thumb from me :)

Steven

[DanielB]

so i thought about it, came back to it, came back to it, and thought about it. and decided i didn't like that other card i made.... so heres my new idea. linda went off 408|views style.

any comments, critique? and i'm wondering, should i just leave off my name, and write it on there with a potential customer?:dunno i know andy uses this technique with his e-mail.

[DavidTO]

so i thought about it, came back to it, came back to it, and thought about it. and decided i didn't like that other card i made.... so heres my new idea. linda went off 408|views style.

any comments, critique? and i'm wondering, should i just leave off my name, and write it on there with a potential customer?:dunno i know andy uses this technique with his e-mail.


It's all in the details, Daniel.

The space between images is uneven. The text bottom right should align with the image above (right justified-wise). It should also align with the bottom of your name. Everything aligns with something else! Move your name in to align left with the image above.

The placement of your logo isn't right. I'm not sure if you should center it (move it right and down), make it larger, or what. Play with it.

[DanielB]

okey dokie then.:D


The placement of your logo isn't right. I'm not sure if you should center it (move it right and down), make it larger, or what. Play with it.


and its the only thing that aligns with the images. :lol3

[DavidTO]

okey dokie then.:D




and its the only thing that aligns with the images. :lol3


I think it's that there's only a slight difference between the margins around it. I think you could make it smaller and keep it upper right, or make it larger so that the space bottom and right is the same as top and left. It's sort of neither here nor there right now, IMO.

[DanielB]

I think it's that there's only a slight difference between the margins around it. I think you could make it smaller and keep it upper right, or make it larger so that the space bottom and right is the same as top and left. It's sort of neither here nor there right now, IMO.

yeah,

hows this:dunno

i adjusted the margins inbetween images, lined up my texts, and centered my logo more.

[DavidTO]

yeah,

hows this:dunno

i adjusted the margins inbetween images, lined up my texts, and centered my logo more.


Your text bottom right is still farther right than the image. Overall it's much better, IMO. :thumb

[saurora]

Daniel, my opinion is that when you get the text all lined up........it's going to be outstanding! :thumb

[DanielB]

thanks David and Saurora:thumb

pssst. will the size of my font for e-mail and smugmug be hard to read on a small business card like that?

i mean, i wanna keep it clean, but i don't want people to have to strain to read it.

maybe i could put that on the back:dunno

[Dee]

The car with the headlights forces your eye OUT of the frame or off the business card. The two people force your eye to look out of the frame on the right.

How about reversing these, or try this order... Two guys, chair, car.

I'd make the chair bigger or chose another photo -- the chair is just getting lost.

Why all the space on the right side of the card? The proportions look wrong.

Your card should be three and one half inches wide and two inches high... minimum space between "live matter" and the edge should be 1/8 of an inch, 1/4 inch is better.

I'm not fond of the script font for StandOut -- reminds me of Shay Stephen's card:D (which is OK on his card). And the P in photography is touching the underline -- move it down a little if you want to keep that layout.

Is this enough for you to start tearing your hair out???:rofl

[juliank]

Occasionally, I create an 8x10 or 8.5x11 sheet for a small number of business cards that I cut myself. The template with text is the same, but the background could be different. I looked on the web for a Photoshop actions that perhaps could automate the pasting of 10 the same backgrounds on layers in specific locations to match the template, but haven't found one. Has anybody maybe seen any actions that would help with this?
Thanks for any ideas!

[Micah Weber]

http://img86.imageshack.us/img86/457/dscn06459rm.jpg

[Angelo]

Your text bottom right is still farther right than the image. Overall it's much better, IMO. :thumb

:agree

[Art Scott]

Occasionally, I create an 8x10 or 8.5x11 sheet for a small number of business cards that I cut myself. The template with text is the same, but the background could be different. I looked on the web for a Photoshop actions that perhaps could automate the pasting of 10 the same backgrounds on layers in specific locations to match the template, but haven't found one. Has anybody maybe seen any actions that would help with this?
Thanks for any ideas!

Try PAGEMAKER OR Moss bay's Office printer (Office Printer is the one I now use,,,,makes great cards)

[Art Scott]

My card from 1989 - 1992.....when I gave up this wonerful way of life.
My Model was Marnie Rountree, had real potential but admited to being afraid of leaving the safety of here home town.


http://contemporary-visions.smugmug.com/photos/61887341-L.jpg
I apollogize for the crud on the card....the scanner I used has dust on the underside of the glass and element....:cry

It did get me quite a bit of work, but for an area as conservative as Wichita Kansas I was surprised.....
The cards were actually made to take to LA for a Publication Party for the model....she was published in a Modeling Pub. called "FACES".
So I took cards with me also and would up getting a wedding in Sacramento that year and other work....even here in Ks....of course I got more local work with a different card.......but this one got me noticed........I updated the card with my current phone and business email before uploading, but other than that its just as it was in 1989....just changed those 2 lines.

The card was printed as full bleed on photo paper by a company named STYLART out of North Dakota...I do not think they are in business anymore.

[Cliff Photo]

Occasionally, I create an 8x10 or 8.5x11 sheet for a small number of business cards that I cut myself. The template with text is the same, but the background could be different. I looked on the web for a Photoshop actions that perhaps could automate the pasting of 10 the same backgrounds on layers in specific locations to match the template, but haven't found one. Has anybody maybe seen any actions that would help with this?
Thanks for any ideas!

If you have PSCS2, the answer you are looking for I believe is in Smart Objects. It will replace all of an image with all of another image if you copy from one original smart object. Google "Smart Objects" if you have CS2.

[Harrison]

Here's my humble contribution...:dunno

[cambler]

Sure, I'll play.

http://external.ambler.net/bc.jpg

The shot on my card is my award-winning image from 2004, "Why I Like Ballet."

[Harrison]

Now THAT'S a business card! Nice~:):

[DanielB]

uhh i think thats at least 1 way to get people to hold on to your card. :lol3

[F45]

Here is half of my most recent card...

The front,

[F45]

The back.

[ellepixels]

The back.


Were does one start, ....Im just starting out... a few jobs under my belt,
and a website here at smugmug.
Im not sure, what look, or feel, the card should have.?
I am looking for something a little diffrent, but yet pro looking.
Would apreciate advice.
thanks.:thumb

[F45]

Hi Ellepixels,

As you have probably noticed, there is a lot of reading in this post!
If you haven't read all of the replies thus far, I'll give you the basics of the oppinions.
Most have agreed that a card should show some artistic style even in the form of minimalism. Too much clutter will not highlight your skills as a photographer or as a business person. Some will argue that no picture on the card is best and some feel the opposite. I for one feel that a well chosen photo can set the mood for your introduction to potential clients...even if you don't hand them one of your cards personally. A future client might be given your card by a former client etc. and their recommendation combined with your "presentation" could be enough for someone to make a mental comittment to using you for an assignment. The one thing that I think everyone agreed with in this thread is that first impressions are always the most important link to even getting a second impression. In other words...make sure your card (and for that matter anything that represents your business) is the best quality you can offer. Spend the extra money on better card stock, have them professionally printed and if need be; hire someone to create the look you want. Any amount of money spent here will always seem cheap when you consider the amount of value a good looking business card can provide.
Keep the font clean and legible and try not to go over-board with discriptions of all the different styles of photography that you're able to offer (this is perhaps another advantage of a single albeit informative photo on the card). If you can't quite make up your mind with how you want the card to look, then try a search in Google images for "photgraphy business card" and see what others have used on their cards. My card is intended to show the architectural work that I do but I use another card for my fine art work. I designed them myself using Corel Draw, uploaded them to overnightprints.com, paid for the overnight shipping ($30.00 or so) and had them in my hands within 48 hours all for about $130.00. I have made several cards for myself and other clients and always paid about $190.00 + tax and 14 days for local printing. Overnightprints.com was recommended to me by an associate and I think they are the best I've seen. I think Andy here at Digital Grin also recommended them in one of his posts.
Your website looks like you will be speciallizing in portraiture, so maybe you'll use one of your most admired images for a faded background or something.
My final advice is take your time, enjoy the process and imagine that people will be paying you for the card when you hand them one, because if you approach your business card creation with the same pride that you approach your image processing; people will take notice and more importantly they will take the time to call! :thumb

Cheers,

Chris.

[ellepixels]

Hi Ellepixels,

As you have probably noticed, there is a lot of reading in this post!
If you haven't read all of the replies thus far, I'll give you the basics of the oppinions.
Most have agreed that a card should show some artistic style even in the form of minimalism. Too much clutter will not highlight your skills as a photographer or as a business person. Some will argue that no picture on the card is best and some feel the opposite. I for one feel that a well chosen photo can set the mood for your introduction to potential clients...even if you don't hand them one of your cards personally. A future client might be given your card by a former client etc. and their recommendation combined with your "presentation" could be enough for someone to make a mental comittment to using you for an assignment. The one thing that I think everyone agreed with in this thread is that first impressions are always the most important link to even getting a second impression. In other words...make sure your card (and for that matter anything that represents your business) is the best quality you can offer. Spend the extra money on better card stock, have them professionally printed and if need be; hire someone to create the look you want. Any amount of money spent here will always seem cheap when you consider the amount of value a good looking business card can provide.
Keep the font clean and legible and try not to go over-board with discriptions of all the different styles of photography that you're able to offer (this is perhaps another advantage of a single albeit informative photo on the card). If you can't quite make up your mind with how you want the card to look, then try a search in Google images for "photgraphy business card" and see what others have used on their cards. My card is intended to show the architectural work that I do but I use another card for my fine art work. I designed them myself using Corel Draw, uploaded them to overnightprints.com, paid for the overnight shipping ($30.00 or so) and had them in my hands within 48 hours all for about $130.00. I have made several cards for myself and other clients and always paid about $190.00 + tax and 14 days for local printing. Overnightprints.com was recommended to me by an associate and I think they are the best I've seen. I think Andy here at Digital Grin also recommended them in one of his posts.
Your website looks like you will be speciallizing in portraiture, so maybe you'll use one of your most admired images for a faded background or something.
My final advice is take your time, enjoy the process and imagine that people will be paying you for the card when you hand them one, because if you approach your business card creation with the same pride that you approach your image processing; people will take notice and more importantly they will take the time to call! :thumb

Cheers,

Chris.

Thank you for the post. One of my biggest complains with business cards,
is that they are forgetfull. You stick them in your wallet, with the rest of the pile you have. And when you need one, you need to take them all out, and go trew them, to find the one you are looking for. Especially, if they all have a white background. Although i want a clean, and minimal card, i also want one, that is colorful, and easy to remember. I was playing around in cs2 yesterday, and i came up with one very loud.
http://tanyadelnegrofoto.smugmug.com/gallery/1351847/1/66534653

This is my first attemp, with something loud. I like the colors, and like the affect it gave when i printed one up.

All constructive critism is welcome.I know, it's not the usual photographers card...

[JBurt]

Okay, Hi Gang.

My first post so I may as well jump in with both feet. This is my business card. My specialty is automoive photography. I do a lot of carshows and automotive "glamour" shots. (Or baby pictures for car guys) :):

One of the first things I learned was to make the lettering large enough for old eyes to see. I feel it is important to catch the eye with a strong visual on the front but, I have all the vitals (name, address, phone, etc.) on the back in larger, black type on white.

http://www.jburtphotos.com/images/blucrd2e.jpg

http://www.jburtphotos.com

[Bodley]

After seeing all the other cards posted I'm truly embarrassed to show this draft.

http://www.bodleypix.com/photos/76992579-M.jpg

Card Comments?

I shoot sports so my goal for the card is to let people know where to find their shots. Hopefully cram it in their pocket and see it again when they get home.

Up until now I've been printing my own but I'm shooting 4 tournaments in the next month and I can order cheaper than print them myself. Did Overnight Prints get their security issues corrected?

[Frog Lady]

hi Greg,

If you don't mind, I'll make a couple of comments on your card... (mind you, this is from some one who hasn't even got one of her own yet)

I really like how you isolated the two individuals in action. However, I would work on the skin tone of the gymnist - her whole image looks washed out, especially compared to the bb player.

Also, the card looks relativelyl "busy". What, if any thing do you have on the back and could you move parts of your text there to keep the front cleaner?

good luck and I've enjoyed your action shots when you post.

C.

[Bodley]

hi Greg,

If you don't mind, I'll make a couple of comments on your card... (mind you, this is from some one who hasn't even got one of her own yet)

However, I would work on the skin tone of the gymnist - her whole image looks washed out, especially compared to the bb player.

Also, the card looks relativelyl "busy". What, if any thing do you have on the back and could you move parts of your text there to keep the front cleaner?



Don't mind at all :thumb

The gymnast and ballplayer, I agree. The problem is that the gymnast was shot ISO 3200 / 400 / f1.8 and I was pushing it. Hard for me to get much pop out of her. I actually de-popped or washed out the bball player to help balance the shots. Your right, I need to work the shots some more before printing. Why pick these shots if they don't balance you ask - they are of my kids and I thought they would get a kick out of being on the cards which is more important than better or more balanced shots.

Busy, I agree but when I remove any text it looks vacant. I'll look at that as well.

Thanks for the comments :D

How's this?

http://www.bodleypix.com/photos/77045055-M.jpg

[JBurt]

Up until now I've been printing my own but I'm shooting 4 tournaments in the next month and I can order cheaper than print them myself. Did Overnight Prints get their security issues corrected?

It looks like they are still having troubles. http://www.dgrin.com/showthread.php?t=24523
http://www.dgrin.com/showthread.php?t=35801

I saw a new post on a thread a couple weeks ago where they were still getting other's info in the fields. Couldn't find the posts now though.

I've got a back log of card orders and am probably just going to go local.

[USAIR]

Hi all,
It was very helpful and interesting to see all the different styles of business cards. I have a few and here are 2 of miine. http://dianes.smugmug.com/photos/59627694-S.jpg

http://dianes.smugmug.com/photos/59636695-S.jpg

Another idea ... I now create a 'client business card' on an 8x10 photo paper (metallic works GREAT) which holds 10 cards ...I use one of the images from their shoot and add my information on the card as seen above. They are thrilled to see their photo on 'my' business card and are quicker to pass out my cards when their picture is on the card.

Great Idea :thumb

Thanks
Fred

[rosselliot]

These are my "cards" - I do have actual business cards, but they're just opaque platic material, dark brown, with the same script and writting as these have. plus, I'm more proud of these! haha.

I have these printed at...WalMart - - yeah yeah yeah, so shoot me - - - on 4X6 photos and hand these out. they look really neat since they're printed ON a photo....

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y290/rosselliot/Project22.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y290/rosselliot/rossfrazierartisticprints.jpg

- RE

All Images are copyright Ross Frazier and Ross Frazier Photography.

[Frog Lady]

Don't mind at all :thumb

The gymnast and ballplayer, I agree. The problem is that the gymnast was shot ISO 3200 / 400 / f1.8 and I was pushing it. Hard for me to get much pop out of her. I actually de-popped or washed out the bball player to help balance the shots. Your right, I need to work the shots some more before printing. Why pick these shots if they don't balance you ask - they are of my kids and I thought they would get a kick out of being on the cards which is more important than better or more balanced shots.

Busy, I agree but when I remove any text it looks vacant. I'll look at that as well.

Thanks for the comments :D

How's this?

http://www.bodleypix.com/photos/77045055-M.jpg

I think it looks much better on both accts. Your daughter looks brighter and it is easier to read w/o the "capturing the moments" text. Nice job and good luck w/ your sales.

C.

[gouldphoto]

Just found this thread and thought I would share what I use to hand out.
These are 4x6 and everyone always asks "I can keep this?". Nothing like handing out a photo to have people remember you.

http://gouldphoto.smugmug.com/photos/77085311-L.jpg

and 1 for the motorcycle racers (newer version)

http://gouldphoto.smugmug.com/photos/77085345-L.jpg

Steve Gould
www.gouldphoto.com (http://www.gouldphoto.com)

[Alkhemist]

13426
Hand drawn old school card with raised printing. The original had a white background and my old phone number at the lower left. On many I colored in the pencil by hand. I actually registered the copyright. I'm working on one for my dphotography.

[landrum]

This is my current (old) card:

http://landrum.smugmug.com/photos/80053466-M.jpg

and this is what I'm working on for my new batch (there will be no border...it's going to bleed off and this is just the template without cropping):

http://landrum.smugmug.com/photos/80053465-M.jpg

I'm wanting a little more eye catching and memorable, but still simple. Any opinions? I also have to add the BBB logo, but I'm not sure that I want that on the front...on the back maybe? If I put that on the back, should I put all the text on the back and just have the image on the front?

For printers, I have used VistaPrint.com for my promotional items and they have always done a great job for me with great prices.

Thanks!

[mrlarter]

I have several diffrent ards. each card has a diffrent photo from my site on one site and the other clearly written out in black text my name and various other info. I'll scan one up and place it here for people to see.

[photofreak]

Hi Sam,
Have started just reading through older threads...just to pick up any info I can....came across your business card....I love it!!!! As soon as I can figure it out, will show you mine.:wink
I'm still not able to upload any photos. I read through the threads where it tells you how...but the darn thing stops at "if your file is too big make it smaller." HOW DO I MAKE IT SMALLER!!!!!!! I'm getting so friggin' frustrated, I simply walked away from it.
I read in one of the threads you can link it from your site and not worry about size....uh..:scratch .well it falied due to size. Let me first say, I always shoot at the highest quality when taking pics. When I'm done with them in photoshop I save them at the highest. I'm just concerned about clarity, I guess. And get this...no one has ever ordered anything larger than a 16x20. But, damn was it clear!:):
I downloaded a program called Irfvanview so, my kids can upload photos to their myspace website. (I'm careful about that...even created my own myspace page to be able to check on theirs :evil )
Anway...have not even figured that damn thing out....have no idea how I got my pic up here...oh wait, it doesn't show cuz I don't have a small enough size to upload an avatar(it only shows on my info page)....and what the heck does avatar mean:huh
BTW....got my new toy yesterday...bought the Canon 20D, Sigma (just could not spend 1600.00 right now on a lens alone!) 70-200 f2.8 lens and a variety of other things...
Okay...I'm off...well we know I'm off...kid has a dentist appt.
Hope to hear from you
Mandi
www.mandraleephotography.com (http://www.mandraleephotography.com)





Wow! Some great cards here, and I can really see the individual styles. Here is my ah...since i'm not in business, call it a contact card. My volume and use is such, that I just print them 8 up from PhotoShop as needed.

Sam

[photofreak]

:clap I LOVE LOVE LOVE that one, Sam!!!!!! I'm so into sepia!!!!!
Mandi




That's all I can say after viewing these great cards. After looking at your cards my orginal one started looking prety sad, so, with your modivation, I set out to improve on it.

Remember I don't have a business, so it's just an informal contact card.

Critiques welcome. :D

Thanks,

Sam

[photofreak]

I love these......how can I get mine up???
Mandi




This is my current (old) card:

http://landrum.smugmug.com/photos/80053466-M.jpg

and this is what I'm working on for my new batch (there will be no border...it's going to bleed off and this is just the template without cropping):

http://landrum.smugmug.com/photos/80053465-M.jpg

I'm wanting a little more eye catching and memorable, but still simple. Any opinions? I also have to add the BBB logo, but I'm not sure that I want that on the front...on the back maybe? If I put that on the back, should I put all the text on the back and just have the image on the front?

For printers, I have used VistaPrint.com for my promotional items and they have always done a great job for me with great prices.

Thanks!

[photofreak]

did it come up???

[photofreak]

I use Vista print and love them! I just recently got the e-business card...so I'm able to attach it to every email I send out.
Mandi
www.mandraleephotography.com (http://www.mandraleephotography.com)





This is my current (old) card:

http://landrum.smugmug.com/photos/80053466-M.jpg

and this is what I'm working on for my new batch (there will be no border...it's going to bleed off and this is just the template without cropping):

http://landrum.smugmug.com/photos/80053465-M.jpg

I'm wanting a little more eye catching and memorable, but still simple. Any opinions? I also have to add the BBB logo, but I'm not sure that I want that on the front...on the back maybe? If I put that on the back, should I put all the text on the back and just have the image on the front?

For printers, I have used VistaPrint.com for my promotional items and they have always done a great job for me with great prices.

Thanks!

[Art Scott]

did it come up???

:thumb Very nice card:thumb ...really like it........Is that the E-card from Vista Print?

[photofreak]

:thumb Very nice card:thumb ...really like it........Is that the E-card from Vista Print?

Yes, it is and it only cost 1.99 with my last order.
The story behind this shot is cute...wanna hear it?
Hey, your the one who sent the message! Thank you...I replied to it...was able to get this up the way I explained to you in the email...simply by clicking the browse button. Blew me away that it was actually there...:clap
I've not been able to post other's but, will try it the way you explained...
Mandi

[photofreak]

:thumb Very nice card:thumb ...really like it........Is that the E-card from Vista Print?
just went to your site. You do AWESOME WORK!!!!!!!!!:clap :thumb
I love the tree shots especially...very very nice!!! I'm sending someone to your site who loves this kind of photography...
Mandi

[Sam]

Hi Sam,
Have started just reading through older threads...just to pick up any info I can....came across your business card....I love it!!!! As soon as I can figure it out, will show you mine.:wink
I'm still not able to upload any photos. I read through the threads where it tells you how...but the darn thing stops at "if your file is too big make it smaller." HOW DO I MAKE IT SMALLER!!!!!!! I'm getting so friggin' frustrated, I simply walked away from it.
I read in one of the threads you can link it from your site and not worry about size....uh..:scratch .well it falied due to size. Let me first say, I always shoot at the highest quality when taking pics. When I'm done with them in photoshop I save them at the highest. I'm just concerned about clarity, I guess. And get this...no one has ever ordered anything larger than a 16x20. But, damn was it clear!:):
I downloaded a program called Irfvanview so, my kids can upload photos to their myspace website. (I'm careful about that...even created my own myspace page to be able to check on theirs :evil )
Anway...have not even figured that damn thing out....have no idea how I got my pic up here...oh wait, it doesn't show cuz I don't have a small enough size to upload an avatar(it only shows on my info page)....and what the heck does avatar mean:huh
BTW....got my new toy yesterday...bought the Canon 20D, Sigma (just could not spend 1600.00 right now on a lens alone!) 70-200 f2.8 lens and a variety of other things...
Okay...I'm off...well we know I'm off...kid has a dentist appt.
Hope to hear from you
Mandi
www.mandraleephotography.com (http://www.mandraleephotography.com)

Mandi,

I am glad you like my card. Thanks!

While I can't help you with linking your photo from Smugmug (I don't have any kind of online site) I can tell you how I prepare my images on my computer to upload to D-Grin.

I use photoshop, but I think most other image programs can do this.

1. Convert to sRGB color space.
2. Change ppi to 72 ppi.
3. Change longest side of image to 800 ppi.
4. Add a little more sharpening, and maybe contrast to help make the small image online look more like the original.
5. Save as jpg. Use whatever compression level is needed to keep the image at about 120k or under.

To print an image you like to have a hi res file (say 300 ppi) but to view on a computer you won't see a difference between 72 ppi, and 300 ppi.

Let me know if this helps at all.

Sam

[Pezpix]

Dont know how I missed this thread for so long! There are some great cards here!

Here's my humble little two sided card.

http://Pezman.smugmug.com/photos/81144946-S.jpg

http://Pezman.smugmug.com/photos/81145024-S.jpg

[Mongrel]

I hadn't noticed this before either.

Well another "designed without a clue" *card* :rofl

Did this as a 4X6 for a tournament I shot...

http://littlebigshotz.smugmug.com/photos/81150171-M.jpg

I did it with borders so the text wasn't so jammed up at the top. (If they couldn't figure it out, then they couldn't buy the pics anyway).

[raptorcaptor]

Seriously...did you expect something normal ?
.
http://wadjelaphotography.smugmug.com/photos/20554952-S.jpg

I like it! :clap

[photofreak]

Mandi,

I am glad you like my card. Thanks!

While I can't help you with linking your photo from Smugmug (I don't have any kind of online site) I can tell you how I prepare my images on my computer to upload to D-Grin.

I use photoshop, but I think most other image programs can do this.

1. Convert to sRGB color space.
2. Change ppi to 72 ppi.
3. Change longest side of image to 800 ppi.
4. Add a little more sharpening, and maybe contrast to help make the small image online look more like the original.
5. Save as jpg. Use whatever compression level is needed to keep the image at about 120k or under.

To print an image you like to have a hi res file (say 300 ppi) but to view on a computer you won't see a difference between 72 ppi, and 300 ppi.

Let me know if this helps at all.

Sam
Thank you, Sam:thumb ...will try this...just posted in another thread asking how to do this...hadn't seen your reply yet...I'll go try...
Mandi

[TristanP]

I'll throw my hat in the ring. I really need something to hand out. Here's my first go at it. Please, show me the way.

http://tristansphotography.smugmug.com/photos/82129491-M.jpg

[photofreak]

AWESOME shot!!!!!!:clap :clap I'd maybe not diffuse the photo so much. It is so awesome...I get my business cards at Vistaprint and they are very reasonable! With my last order they gave me an e-business card for 1.99.
I attach it to all my emails now. It's great.
For your first try at a card this rocks!!!
Mandi
www.mandraleephotography.com (http://www.mandraleephotography.com)





I'll throw my hat in the ring. I really need something to hand out. Here's my first go at it. Please, show me the way.

http://tristansphotography.smugmug.com/photos/82129491-M.jpg

[TristanP]

On further review and consultation, I've simplified. Here's my current version:

Front:

http://www.tristansphotography.com/photos/82870420-M.jpg

Back:


http://www.tristansphotography.com/photos/82870419-M.jpg

[Frog Lady]

and this is what I'm working on for my new batch (there will be no border...it's going to bleed off and this is just the template without cropping):

http://landrum.smugmug.com/photos/80053465-M.jpg

I'm wanting a little more eye catching and memorable, but still simple. Any opinions?

Thanks!

Hi Laurie,

I just saw your post, but just wanted to suggest (IMHO, as well as my hubbie's) that the picture for this card is a bit too eerie - reminds me of "Chuckie" (that doll from one of the horror flicks) and my hubbie thought that the looks on their faces was too blank. I don't want to be overly critical, but thought you should know the 1st, gut reaction to this card.

Good luck,

C.

[meewolfie]

Front:

http://www.tristansphotography.com/photos/82870420-M.jpg


Tristan - This is a very nice example of how a photo with a strong enough graphic element can really add to the design quality of the business card.

A great re-working of the image and layout. I just love the way the elliptical shape of the track swings around the card, off the edge and then comes back on! Very nice.

I also like that the text doesn't overlap the picture. Not all photos provide natural white space - this one does and then opens up that space for your URL. Another nice aspect to this card.

Mary

[PhotoPsych]

Hi all!
This is my first posting here on DGrin. I am in the process of composing a new business card tied in with my Smugmug site. Any suggestions/comments/criticism would be greatly appreciated. (These two images were taken in Central Park, NY.)http://karl-tepfer.smugmug.com/photos/83117063-M.jpg

[DavidTO]

photopsych,

Is that the full image? Everything seems to be a bit right and low...


I like the idea, though!

[PhotoPsych]

Hi David,
Yes, that is the full image of a proposed 4"x6" "postcard" business card...may also print it as a normal sized business card. Not exactly sure what you mean about the placement aspect. I, obviously, took the same picture in Central Park in Winter and Fall. There was a somewhat homeless person (whom I meet every time I go there, and have become acquainted with) sleeping in the exact spot I usually use, so I could not use the same precise location. I attempted to compensate in PS. The statue in the far distance serves as the "center" while the flower pot is slightly off to the right. I thought the trees framing the distant view provided a good visual frame of reference. Perhaps the "low" you refer to is due to the fact I cropped out some of the foreground so the two images could fit.

[DavidTO]

Hi David,
Yes, that is the full image of a proposed 4"x6" "postcard" business card...may also print it as a normal sized business card. Not exactly sure what you mean about the placement aspect. I, obviously, took the same picture in Central Park in Winter and Fall. There was a somewhat homeless person (whom I meet every time I go there, and have become acquainted with) sleeping in the exact spot I usually use, so I could not use the same precise location. I attempted to compensate in PS. The statue in the far distance serves as the "center" while the flower pot is slightly off to the right. I thought the trees framing the distant view provided a good visual frame of reference. Perhaps the "low" you refer to is due to the fact I cropped out some of the foreground so the two images could fit.


What I'm saying is that nothing lines up centered. The text is offset to the right, and the images are as well. That would be fine, if they lined up with something. Basically, everything should line up with something, IMO.

[DavidTO]

Here's another thought. You'd need to do some more redesigning than I did here, but just a thought.

By the way, I really like the images and the direction that your card is headed, hope you don't mind me chiming in like this.

[DavidTO]

or maybe this?

Again, it would take more design than I've done here.

[PhotoPsych]

Hey David,
No, I don't mind your helpful observations at all and really appreciate them. I'm going to try out some of your suggestions and will post the results when completed. Thanks again.
Karl:clap

[xtnomad]

Put this togeather today and ordered the first 100 today. I do plan to keep experimenting in the quest.
http://rtm-ltd.smugmug.com/photos/83425376-L.jpg

[JBurt]

Put this togeather today and ordered the first 100 today. I do plan to keep experimenting in the quest.
http://rtm-ltd.smugmug.com/photos/83323066-L.jpg

Great looking card but... Photography only has one r.
And...
To open a whole new can of worms:
Make sure you have all of your releases signed, i.e.:
The rider, the race team, and especially, Honda.

[xtnomad]

lol See what happens when one does not check his work. Thank You. As for the releases I have found that a free 8 x 10 works real good with the rider and team, Honda I not going to worry about as these are only going to be handed out to a small group and not in publications.

[JBurt]

As for the releases I have found that a free 8 x 10 works real good with the rider and team, Honda I not going to worry about as these are only going to be handed out to a small group and not in publications.

I do the same. It was basically a heads up in case and for those who didn't think of it.
Personally, I think it is good free advertising for them. However, some companies are more protective of their name than others.

[xtnomad]

Thank You, Just corrected the order. That was a good laugh for a Sunday morning. I hope that is why we are all here, to learn and get input from others. Rod

[Brookes' Photography]

I get my business cards printed at iPrint.com. Great site for cards you have designed or they have templates too.

http://www.dgrin.com/images/attach/jpg.gif

http://www.dgrin.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=13947&stc=1&d=1153681881[/IMG]

[cambler]

Make sure you have all of your releases signed, i.e.:
The rider, the race team, and especially, Honda.
I beg to differ. The rider is performing at a public event and the shot is newsworthy. Fair use. The use on the business card, while promotional, may not meet the bar of commercial use, and would surely cost more to prosecute than the rider or team cares to spend on a case that is far from a slam dunk. Finally, no release is needed from Honda unless the new trademark protection law is passed, and that seems less than likely due to intense lobbying by many professional groups.

In summary: I do not see this shot as one that needs a release from any party provided it is not used commercially. And it is to note that selling prints is often not considered commercial use per se.

This is, however, not legal advice. Just being conversational.

[Mike Lane]

I need a new business card. My old one had addresses and phone numbers and yadda yadda. That's no good for a guy married to a military girl. Plus I want to start emphasizing the fact that I'm doing more than photography (well I'm trying to do more than photography anyhow). And yes, I agree I shouldn't be giving this card out until my page is all set up (which it isn't).

Anyhow rip it to shreds, it's just a first doodling. Help me by not giving me a s%$t sandwich, just give it to me straight. What is good about it? What is bad about it? Scream at me and tell me I'm terrible at this whole design thing if that's what it takes. If it's praiseworthy I could always use some of that too :uhoh

Anywho, here it is.

[gus]

I need a new business card. My old one had addresses and phone numbers and yadda yadda. That's no good for a guy married to a military girl. Plus I want to start emphasizing the fact that I'm doing more than photography (well I'm trying to do more than photography anyhow). And yes, I agree I shouldn't be giving this card out until my page is all set up (which it isn't).

Anyhow rip it to shreds, it's just a first doodling. Help me by not giving me a s%$t sandwich, just give it to me straight. What is good about it? What is bad about it? Scream at me and tell me I'm terrible at this whole design thing if that's what it takes. If it's praiseworthy I could always use some of that too :uhoh

Anywho, here it is.

Mike...it sucks...really it does for me anyway. I like to look at a something on a biz card..anything but you have nothing there mate. It looks like something a building company would have used in the 80's not a photographer that has the talent you have for gods sake. I cant help you with ideas except that you can do a lot better mate.

.....you want sugar with that ?

[gus]

Put this togeather today and ordered the first 100 today. I do plan to keep experimenting in the quest.
http://rtm-ltd.smugmug.com/photos/83425376-L.jpg
I like that...its not what i would do but i certainly like it :thumb

[Mike Lane]

It looks like something a building company would have used in the 80's not a photographer that has the talent you have for gods sake.

That's all the sugar that I need :D

[Nutter]

I guess I'll throw mine up

These are for my production company, the photo business ones are still in development. Front / Back. Yes I know my flatbed scanner is dirty. :):

http://web.njit.edu/%7Ekn3/buscard.jpg

[ian408]

I need a new business card.

This one doesn't work for me. The "M/L" logo thing just doesn't draw my
attention. If you want to go with a minimalist look for the plain background,
I think that'd be great. I guess the logo thing is kinda cheezy looking :dunno

[JBurt]

I beg to differ. The rider is performing at a public event and the shot is newsworthy. Fair use.
True if it is used in a news format.
The use on the business card, while promotional, may not meet the bar of commercial use, and would surely cost more to prosecute than the rider or team cares to spend on a case that is far from a slam dunk. Finally, no release is needed from Honda unless the new trademark protection law is passed, and that seems less than likely due to intense lobbying by many professional groups.
I agree with the time and expense and 99% of the time it doesn't matter. But, put a photo of Mickey or the Magic Kingdom on your card and let it get into the wrong hands and see what happens. Disney doesn't care what the expense is.

In summary: I do not see this shot as one that needs a release from any party provided it is not used commercially. And it is to note that selling prints is often not considered commercial use per se.
I believe you will find a business card is a commercial use of an image. You are using the image to sell a product and/or service.

This is, however, not legal advice. Just being conversational.
Ditto :thumb

[pat.kane]

Mike, as far as the logo goes, I think it is fine. You'll find that a lot of well designed and recognized logos (e.g., IBM, McDonalds, etc.) are quite simple and yours meets that criteria; however, these logos are recognizable in large part because of the marketing of the brand over time. You don't have that in your favor.

Your card doesn't tell me anything about what you do. Dance studio, artist studio, photography studio, music studio, etc.? I think you need to figure out what you're trying to target and make that the primary element of your card. Keep the logo and shrink it in size (making it a non-primary element) or put it on the reverse.

You also need to capitalize the S in your e-mail address to be consistent with the url you're showing as part of your logo.

For what it's worth...
Pat

[Ariel Bravy]

Hey guys, first post here. Looks like a great forum! Here's my card:

http://www.prism.gatech.edu/%7Egtg536g/fm/businesscard2.jpg

[pat.kane]

Wow Ariel, that is indeed a wonderful photo.

I'd suggest using your wonderfulphoto domain for your e-mail address as well.

[R Johns]

Ariel,

That is an outstanding image...:thumb

Russ

[JMichael]

A few observations as someone who both designs and does large print runs of business cards for a living...

Be careful how hard you make a potential customer work. We live in an information economy. Thanks to powerful search engines and even opening up a phone book in a good size city... a potential client has hundreds if not thousands of other choices.

If you want a clean sleek front to your business card with minimal visual clutter... consider doing a double sided card with pertinent contact information presented neatly on the back and the front of the card more of a showcase of your photo(s)

Andy mentioned that he writes his number down on the back to increase the interaction time with the potential client. Thats a fine way to do things, but the key is he makes sure the client -gets the information.-

I'm not going to critique actual designs here, because honestly I find unrequested criticism really tacky and opinions are pretty cheap and worthless on the internet. If you like your card, if it suits your needs, and if it is getting you contacts from people... it does its job.

I will say... make -sure- you've got enough information on your card that you're potential client can reach you in an easy and comfortable way. Sure someone like me who has a home network, computers all over the house, computers at work, and high speed internet everywhere but his car will just punch in the website and look for the contact tab to get your info. -Most- people won't. In my experience getting clients both as a photographer and as a designer/printer you need to make it so easy for someone to contact you there is no reason for them -not- to do it.

I appreciate a clean simple business card, but make sure not to skimp on important contact info.

[Mike Lane]

A few observations as someone who both designs and does large print runs of business cards for a living...

Be careful how hard you make a potential customer work. We live in an information economy. Thanks to powerful search engines and even opening up a phone book in a good size city... a potential client has hundreds if not thousands of other choices.

If you want a clean sleek front to your business card with minimal visual clutter... consider doing a double sided card with pertinent contact information presented neatly on the back and the front of the card more of a showcase of your photo(s)

Andy mentioned that he writes his number down on the back to increase the interaction time with the potential client. Thats a fine way to do things, but the key is he makes sure the client -gets the information.-

I'm not going to critique actual designs here, because honestly I find unrequested criticism really tacky and opinions are pretty cheap and worthless on the internet. If you like your card, if it suits your needs, and if it is getting you contacts from people... it does its job.

I will say... make -sure- you've got enough information on your card that you're potential client can reach you in an easy and comfortable way. Sure someone like me who has a home network, computers all over the house, computers at work, and high speed internet everywhere but his car will just punch in the website and look for the contact tab to get your info. -Most- people won't. In my experience getting clients both as a photographer and as a designer/printer you need to make it so easy for someone to contact you there is no reason for them -not- to do it.

I appreciate a clean simple business card, but make sure not to skimp on important contact info.

:wave

Welcome to dgrin and thanks for the great info!

[DavidTO]

A few observations as someone who both designs and does large print runs of business cards for a living...

Be careful how hard you make a potential customer work. We live in an information economy. Thanks to powerful search engines and even opening up a phone book in a good size city... a potential client has hundreds if not thousands of other choices.

If you want a clean sleek front to your business card with minimal visual clutter... consider doing a double sided card with pertinent contact information presented neatly on the back and the front of the card more of a showcase of your photo(s)

Andy mentioned that he writes his number down on the back to increase the interaction time with the potential client. Thats a fine way to do things, but the key is he makes sure the client -gets the information.-

I'm not going to critique actual designs here, because honestly I find unrequested criticism really tacky and opinions are pretty cheap and worthless on the internet. If you like your card, if it suits your needs, and if it is getting you contacts from people... it does its job.

I will say... make -sure- you've got enough information on your card that you're potential client can reach you in an easy and comfortable way. Sure someone like me who has a home network, computers all over the house, computers at work, and high speed internet everywhere but his car will just punch in the website and look for the contact tab to get your info. -Most- people won't. In my experience getting clients both as a photographer and as a designer/printer you need to make it so easy for someone to contact you there is no reason for them -not- to do it.

I appreciate a clean simple business card, but make sure not to skimp on important contact info.


You're probably not referring directly to my card, but you might as well be. In my case, it's not really a business card, as I don't do this as a business. It's more of a "I just redesigned my smugmug page and I should have a cool card to go with it that I can hand to friends and make myself feel important" card. :D

I wish you would comment, I'd love to hear what you have to say about some of these cards, and also about the level of critique already in this thread. I'm sure you can find a card somewhere in here where they asked for feedback! :D

[JMichael]

Welcome to dgrin and thanks for the great info!

Thanks :) and you're welcome!

You're probably not referring directly to my card, but you might as well be. In my case, it's not really a business card, as I don't do this as a business. It's more of a "I just redesigned my smugmug page and I should have a cool card to go with it that I can hand to friends and make myself feel important" card. :D

I wish you would comment, I'd love to hear what you have to say about some of these cards, and also about the level of critique already in this thread. I'm sure you can find a card somewhere in here where they asked for feedback! :D

There is a huge difference between a business card that is meant to function simply as a calling card or for a specific purpose. I recently finished my student teaching and I've got a website specifically for educators, my students, and their parents. When I made business cards for my website I didn't want it to be a full blow business card with multiple means of contacting me. I wanted the card to do nothing more than provide visual interest and direct people to the website. Thus I copied the ultra simple CSS bar that I used at the top of the screen (which has the site name in it) and the -entire- card is simply a light blue band through the middle of the card with mysiteaddress.com in a darker blue text. No email, phone number or additional info. If they need that and I want to give it to them I write it on the back.

My cards for photography are a little more complex than just a simple band. I have a couple different card designs I use (not on this computer, I'll post a few later) one has nothing but clean black text on the front and the entire back is a photo... and another has a simple photo and my company name on the front and the indepth info on the back.

Two totally different cards for two totally different purposes.

As a side note... I have a friend who heads an anti-terrorist unit within the military. A few months ago he reached a level of training and classification that he was officially labeled as a "government asset" I made him a small run of cards that were simply his nickname and "Government Asset" centered on a marble cardstock business card. Great for handing out at the bar ;)

[R Johns]

Thanks :) and you're welcome!



There is a huge difference between a business card that is meant to function simply as a calling card or for a specific purpose. I recently finished my student teaching and I've got a website specifically for educators, my students, and their parents. When I made business cards for my website I didn't want it to be a full blow business card with multiple means of contacting me. I wanted the card to do nothing more than provide visual interest and direct people to the website. Thus I copied the ultra simple CSS bar that I used at the top of the screen (which has the site name in it) and the -entire- card is simply a light blue band through the middle of the card with mysiteaddress.com in a darker blue text. No email, phone number or additional info. If they need that and I want to give it to them I write it on the back.

My cards for photography are a little more complex than just a simple band. I have a couple different card designs I use (not on this computer, I'll post a few later) one has nothing but clean black text on the front and the entire back is a photo... and another has a simple photo and my company name on the front and the indepth info on the back.

Two totally different cards for two totally different purposes.

As a side note... I have a friend who heads an anti-terrorist unit within the military. A few months ago he reached a level of training and classification that he was officially labeled as a "government asset" I made him a small run of cards that were simply his nickname and "Government Asset" centered on a marble cardstock business card. Great for handing out at the bar ;)

yet no one has commented on my card yet...:rolleyes

Russ

[JBurt]

yet no one has commented on my card yet...:rolleyes

Russ
Okay... (one of the mistakes I made on my original cards)

I deal with an older clientele. Older eyes often have a hard time seeing smaller print. When you get the card to size, the font and size of some of your print will be difficult for some people to read. Specifically your URL and community.

I have started putting my info on the white back in large black ariel print. (or arial whichever you have :dunno )

Nice sunset.

[R Johns]

Okay... (one of the mistakes I made on my original cards)

I deal with an older clientele. Older eyes often have a hard time seeing smaller print. When you get the card to size, the font and size of some of your print will be difficult for some people to read. Specifically your URL and community.

I have started putting my info on the white back in large black ariel print. (or arial whichever you have :dunno )

Nice sunset.


jk :1drink

Anyway, I took your critique to heart and decided to do go with a double-sided card format. Here is what I came up with...

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d2/munster-lair/Business-Card_Front.jpg

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d2/munster-lair/Business-Card_Back.jpg

Thanks for taking your time JBert... I like this approach much better...:nod

Take care...

Russ

[JBurt]

Glad I could be of assistance Russ.
I found leaving the back a light color and uncoated allows you or the customer to make notes on it.

I've been looking for a short concise description for my banner. Mind if I use "Commissioned Photography"?

[R Johns]

Glad I could be of assistance Russ.
I found leaving the back a light color and uncoated allows you or the customer to make notes on it.

I've been looking for a short concise description for my banner. Mind if I use "Commissioned Photography"?

I believe that my final design for the backside will be a yellow background and black text (keeping with the color theme), and no coating.

Thanks again... :wave

btw: if "commissioned photography" works for you, go for it...:thumb

Russ

[Nutter]

based on your comments Jmichael, how does my card (page 35) shape up?

[Alaska shutterbug]

So far I have only printed up my own business cards on Avery templates. I am going to order some soon. These are three I made, using the downloadable psd file from overnightprints.com. I am still leaning towards the first, but may print some of the others later. Which do you prefer and any changes I should make?

http://lifeimprintsbykim.smugmug.com/photos/85059550-S.jpg

http://lifeimprintsbykim.smugmug.com/photos/85064892-S.jpg

http://lifeimprintsbykim.smugmug.com/photos/85059597-S.jpg

I'm probably going to order 2-sided cards with more information on the backside, including my photography focus, fees, print prices and email.

[JBurt]

So far I have only printed up my own business cards on Avery templates. I am going to order some soon. These are three I made, using the downloadable psd file from overnightprints.com. I am still leaning towards the first, but may print some of the others later. Which do you prefer and any changes I should make?

http://lifeimprintsbykim.smugmug.com/photos/85059550-S.jpg

http://lifeimprintsbykim.smugmug.com/photos/85064892-S.jpg

http://lifeimprintsbykim.smugmug.com/photos/85059597-S.jpg

I'm probably going to order 2-sided cards with more information on the backside, including my photography focus, fees, print prices and email.
Hi Kim
If you choose the first one, you may as well eliminate your site address and phone number from the front. It is near impossible to read at this size. It will disappear when it is reduced to card size.

In fact if you are going to put your info on the back, I would eliminate it from all three samples and just leave your business name on the front.

On #1 it's hidden by the grass anyway. On #2 it would allow you to use larger images. On #3, to my eye, taking your web address and phone number out would make a more dramatic card. And again, the reduction in size will make it hard to read anyway.

My choice would be #3. Certainly catches the eye, tells a story, and showcases your talents. The only drawback is Overnite Prints converts to CMYK and has a problem matching high saturation reds and oranges. That alone may preclude your using the #3 sample.

Hope this helps.

[R Johns]

So far I have only printed up my own business cards on Avery templates. I am going to order some soon. These are three I made, using the downloadable psd file from overnightprints.com. I am still leaning towards the first, but may print some of the others later. Which do you prefer and any changes I should make?



http://lifeimprintsbykim.smugmug.com/photos/85064892-S.jpg



I'm probably going to order 2-sided cards with more information on the backside, including my photography focus, fees, print prices and email.

Kim,

If your trying to convey "On Location" photography, than #2 says it best. In fact, I'm not sure that you would need to change a thing.

I've used that font before. It fits well with this card.

Very impressive...:thumb

Good luck with your endeavors...

Russ

[Mike Lane]

My last idea was soundly trounced. Good riddance. Here's my next biz card idea. Obviously I'm going for minimalism that will display some photography. I'm married to a military girl so my contact info will be sparse. Only my email won't be changing. But I'll have plenty of area on the back of the card to write down my phone number.

So, what about this one?

http://mikelane.smugmug.com/photos/85137851-L.jpg

back:
http://mikelane.smugmug.com/photos/85139628-L.jpg

[meewolfie]

Mike - I like the card. I've actually been playing around with a similar idea for my card. A nice photo that naturally has some empty space in it for contact information/logo/etc.

It's not a bad idea to "art direct" a photo purposely for your business card. I'll post mine when it's ready - but I basically included white space at the bottom of the photo for the text.

Your photo works well for this approach.

Mary

[Sask2005]

This is a cool thread. I put a layout together a few months back that would fit with many of my photos, so here's one that seemed to work well.

NOw this is a cool card, the best I have seen. I have to copy it

[gus]

My last idea was soundly trounced. Good riddance. Here's my next biz card idea. Obviously I'm going for minimalism that will display some photography. I'm married to a military girl so my contact info will be sparse. Only my email won't be changing. But I'll have plenty of area on the back of the card to write down my phone number.

So, what about this one?



back:


Now your talking mike...show what youve got.

[digitalpins]

Front
http://images.dpchallenge.com/images_portfolio/13719/orig/381145.jpg


Back
http://images.dpchallenge.com/images_portfolio/13719/orig/381146.jpg

[UNCTEP]

Here's mine - just received from *cough* overnight prints *cough*
I think they turned out pretty nice.

Front:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/UNCTEP/cardresize.jpg

Back:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v660/UNCTEP/cardback3resize.jpg

[Angelo]

http://lifeimprintsbykim.smugmug.com/photos/85064892-S.jpg


That looks familiar! :):

[Angelo]

http://mikelane.smugmug.com/photos/85137851-L.jpg



Much better!!!!! :thumb (although I'm not fond of double-sided cards)

[fotodojo]

Mine,

the philosophy is that the cards needs to be fairly simple because these will be used as event cards as well (so I'll hopefully give out a lot of them). The Event Id will either tie into a PHP script that takes my event number and matches it to the event ID on swmugmug or perhaps I'll just use that number - not sure yet.

These cards haven't been full refined yet - but they are the direction I am thinking about anyways =) .. C&C please.

[DavidTO]

Mine,

the philosophy is that the cards needs to be fairly simple because these will be used as event cards as well (so I'll hopefully give out a lot of them). The Event Id will either tie into a PHP script that takes my event number and matches it to the event ID on swmugmug or perhaps I'll just use that number - not sure yet.

These cards haven't been full refined yet - but they are the direction I am thinking about anyways =) .. C&C please.


Nice! Eye-catching and memorable. Fun. Took me a minute to figure out that the sword was a sword, I think because in the one it's coming right out of the corner of the head. Or maybe I'm just slow...

[fotodojo]

Nice! Eye-catching and memorable. Fun. Took me a minute to figure out that the sword was a sword, I think because in the one it's coming right out of the corner of the head. Or maybe I'm just slow...

Yeah you're right - the illustration one should have the sword moved to a better angle - nice catch =) !. I'v been staring at these for a while now so I totally missed that.

[dbd]

Well, here are the first attempts. My site concentrates on panoramas both horizontal and vertical, primarily mountain landscapes.
14493

Dale B. Dalrymple
www.dbdimages.com

[R Johns]

Mine,

the philosophy is that the cards needs to be fairly simple because these will be used as event cards as well (so I'll hopefully give out a lot of them). The Event Id will either tie into a PHP script that takes my event number and matches it to the event ID on swmugmug or perhaps I'll just use that number - not sure yet.

These cards haven't been full refined yet - but they are the direction I am thinking about anyways =) .. C&C please.
Great work...:thumb

[Diane S]

One of my musician clients had me use one of the images from our photo session to create his business card.. he went for the mysterious half/shadowed look... the backside has all his information.
http://dianes.smugmug.com/photos/90064498-S.jpg

[Angelo]

Mine,

the philosophy is that the cards needs to be fairly simple because these will be used as event cards as well (so I'll hopefully give out a lot of them). The Event Id will either tie into a PHP script that takes my event number and matches it to the event ID on swmugmug or perhaps I'll just use that number - not sure yet.

These cards haven't been full refined yet - but they are the direction I am thinking about anyways =) .. C&C please.

excellent!!! :thumb

[pixappeal]

finally got around to it...
http://www.dgrin.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=8785&stc=1&d=1130534051



Would someone be interested in walking me through how to create a card similar to this one (vertical). I have PSCS2, as well as Illustrator, buyt I'm afraid that my knowledge is very limited.

Thanks in advance!

Mike

[Diane S]

Would someone be interested in walking me through how to create a card similar to this one (vertical). I have PSCS2, as well as Illustrator, buyt I'm afraid that my knowledge is very limited.

Thanks in advance!

Mike

Mike, If you mean a VERTICAL business card template??? I use Vistaprint.com and they give you a template for vertical or horizontal business cards. Just pull it up in PS and add photos and text. The template is actually just a guide to show you where the cards are cut and the 'safe' margins when printed. I have been very happy with vista print.. and they are always offering discounts and sales.

[pixappeal]

Mike, If you mean a VERTICAL business card template??? I use Vistaprint.com and they give you a template for vertical or horizontal business cards. Just pull it up in PS and add photos and text. The template is actually just a guide to show you where the cards are cut and the 'safe' margins when printed. I have been very happy with vista print.. and they are always offering discounts and sales.
Diane,

That is precisely what I want to do; however, I'm having a difficult time placing the pictures on the template itself. I can't seem to resize them in PS and it's really frustrating. Can you help with that?

By the way, I took a peek at your site and have to say that I love your work!!!

Mike

[Diane S]

Diane,

That is precisely what I want to do; however, I'm having a difficult time placing the pictures on the template itself. I can't seem to resize them in PS and it's really frustrating. Can you help with that?

By the way, I took a peek at your site and have to say that I love your work!!!

Mike

Sure Mike.. I'd be glad to help.. probably best to email me for help and directions and we can try out a vertical layout with your pics.
diane@dianeschaferphotography.com

Diane

[Angelo]

http://www.dgrin.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=8785&stc=1&d=1130534051



Would someone be interested in walking me through how to create a card similar to this one (vertical). I have PSCS2, as well as Illustrator, buyt I'm afraid that my knowledge is very limited.

Thanks in advance!

Mike

Mike:

I'm flattered you like my card enough to single it out. I would never attempt to recreate a card in PS or other photo program. You should use a layout program such as Illustrator or CorelDraw (as I did). I'm happy to assist you if you'd like.

[pixappeal]

Angelo,

I like the card because of it's simplicity and overall 'clean' look- nice work!

I have illustrator, but I have never used it...if you think you have the patience to walk me through it I would love the help!

Thanks,

[Angelo]

Angelo,

I like the card because of it's simplicity and overall 'clean' look- nice work!

I have illustrator, but I have never used it...if you think you have the patience to walk me through it I would love the help!

Thanks,

Sorry Mike, as I stated above, I use CorelDraw. I know nothing about using AI

[fotodojo]

Angelo,

I like the card because of it's simplicity and overall 'clean' look- nice work!

I have illustrator, but I have never used it...if you think you have the patience to walk me through it I would love the help!

Thanks,

I use Illustrator a bit - albeit on Mac, so the below is a sample "mac" workflow.

Pre-creation steps

a. Start by getting the correct document sizes together - depending how you print your card you will need to take into account things like Bleed sizes as well as what colour space you need to submit the file (usually CMYK) - it might also gbe a good idea to check what file format your printers accept (do they take .ai files directly or do you need to pdf it etc).

b. collect the photos you'd like to use into a folder, process them to your liking in your imaging app (photoshop, paintshop, aperture, etc )

The basic steps for the creation are are:

0. Save & save often (keep a few versions as well) =).

1. create a blank document custom sized x inches wide and y inches tall (usually in CMYK)

2. file->place your images and size them how you want. You should always be able to size the images by clicking on them and dragging the "edge boxes" (hold down the shift key to do a proportional size)

3. Align/Distribute the pictures to be equi-spaced and properly center aligned on your card. Get familiar with the align tool - it's your friend. You'll find it in the window->align menu (or on a mac you can press shift-F7).

4.
a) Using the type tool lay down the text you want to appear on the card - don't worry too much about the formatting yet.

b) Apply consistent formatting to your text. Illustrator doesn't have styles unfortunately but if you limit yourself to only use a few styles you should have no trouble remembering the settings (font/size/alignment)

c) This is optional but you can group elements together when you're happy with their relative positions. Using the Object->Group and conversely the Object->Ungroup menus. Remember the align command ? - It works on text as well =).

5. Shift things around until you're happy with them.Using the pointer tool

6. This is important if your handing your printer the file as an illustrator format - make sure you either hand him any fonts you used OR convert the typing to outlines (in the type menu). Otherwise he'll end up printing your card with subsituted fonts which can be (make that "will be" ugly.

7. Depending on what your printer told you he'd accept you can now move to either "print to PDF" or save the illustrator files (why print to pdf and not save as PDF ? - print to pdf allows you to specify "bleed" & include fonts which "save as pdf" doesn't seem to. The bad news is that means you need to have Adobe Acrobat Professional/Standard (?) installed, which isn't free.

How this helps. If you need me to go into more detail for a specific step just yell (loudly, I am in Australia =))

[cdhames]

http://cdhames.smugmug.com/photos/91583399-L.jpg


If anyone needs help also, I can assist with designs. My stuff is usually pretty saturated though, so if you're not a fan of bright & colorful, you may not like what I can do for you. Msg me if you want help.

[bham]

Here is mine. Feedback wanted.

Front

http://www.smugmug.com/photos/92553583-M.jpg


Back
http://www.smugmug.com/photos/92553592-M.jpg

[Mike Lane]

Back
http://www.smugmug.com/photos/92553592-S.jpgI like the front a lot. But the font that you used for Weddings Events Portraits Art ruins the whole thing for me.

[bham]

http://www.smugmug.com/photos/92611345-M.jpg

Mike how about that?

I took out portraits because the more I thought about it, I don't really want to target that.

[Mike Lane]

http://www.smugmug.com/photos/92611345-M.jpg

Mike how about that?

I took out portraits because the more I thought about it, I don't really want to target that.It's not that you need to use the same font as the rest of your card necessarily, but that looks better to my eye (which has - as you've seen in this thread) led me astray before :uhoh

[bham]

No I think your right. My goal was to set that part of initially from the numbers, etc. I originally had the other font, and it needed something else. I reversed added the box and change the font color and liked it and didn't initally think to change the font.

I think having the font consistent is good. I had tried many and they were either hard to read some letters or somewhat similar to what was I was using for the number and website.

[mikeshots]

I just started shooting motocross practices and races a few weeks ago. I wanted a nice, simple card with my web address and contact info. I'm sure I'll redesign this a few dozen times, but it's a start.

[bham]

Is there significance to the orange or reason for the large block of a plain color?

Great picture, just a quick idea maybe a gradient fade to the orange to tie the to together. There is a very distinct seperation there but you really don't use the space.

I actually like how you differentiated the mikeshots from the www and the .com. I had thought about lowering the text size of the www and the .com on mine.

[bham]

It's not that you need to use the same font as the rest of your card necessarily, but that looks better to my eye (which has - as you've seen in this thread) led me astray before :uhoh

Hey Mike thanks for the feedback.

Bump for other feedback on my card please, a half dozen or so posts above.

[Mike Lane]

Hey Mike thanks for the feedback.

Bump for other feedback on my card please. Original and edited card on page 39.page 10 for folks like me that show 40 posts per page :wink

[DavidTO]

page 10 for folks like me that show 40 posts per page :wink


Yeah, you can link the post in your post. :scratch If that makes any sense!

[DavidTO]

I just started shooting motocross practices and races a few weeks ago. I wanted a nice, simple card with my web address and contact info. I'm sure I'll redesign this a few dozen times, but it's a start.


I like it a lot. I'd see if there was some way to move the email addy into the border. The shot is fantastic. If I were a rider I would be thinking, "Man, if he could make me look like this!"

[Mike Lane]

I just started shooting motocross practices and races a few weeks ago. I wanted a nice, simple card with my web address and contact info. I'm sure I'll redesign this a few dozen times, but it's a start.I don't like the placement of your email address. It gets lost for one and 2 it fails to be CRAPpy (Contrast, Repitition, Alignment, Proximity). It's just in there haphazardly. If anything for starters it should be aligned with the right edge of the .com above it.

[mikeshots]

Is there significance to the orange or reason for the large block of a plain color?

Great picture, just a quick idea maybe a gradient fade to the orange to tie the to together. There is a very distinct seperation there but you really don't use the space.

I actually like how you differentiated the mikeshots from the www and the .com. I had thought about lowering the text size of the www and the .com on mine.

Thanks. I hadn't thought about a gradient fade into the orange. I sampled the orange from a part of the bike and figured the web address was bold enough that it wouldn't be a big deal. I didn't even want to use the orange, but that's basically the full frame of the image that was shot, so I had nothing left to fill the right side of the card. I had a previous version with the e-mail address much smaller and aligned next to the orange block, but it was way to small on the printed card. I just couldn't figure out a better way to place the e-mail address on the orange section, aside from rotating it 90 degrees counterclockwise, but then it would have taken away from the web address. Thanks for the great advice everyone!

[bham]

page 10 for folks like me that show 40 posts per page :wink

My bad didn't realize you change that up.

[bham]

Thanks. I hadn't thought about a gradient fade into the orange. I sampled the orange from a part of the bike and figured the web address was bold enough that it wouldn't be a big deal. I didn't even want to use the orange, but that's basically the full frame of the image that was shot, so I had nothing left to fill the right side of the card. I had a previous version with the e-mail address much smaller and aligned next to the orange block, but it was way to small on the printed card. I just couldn't figure out a better way to place the e-mail address on the orange section, aside from rotating it 90 degrees counterclockwise, but then it would have taken away from the web address. Thanks for the great advice everyone!

Maybe break the email address into two lines to fit into the orange.

mmort@
charter.net

Also another idea I just had for the open orange space. Create some mud splatter on it. That would stand out and break up the bold orange but also stand out on it well.

[DavidTO]

Maybe break the email address into two lines to fit into the orange.

mmort@
charter.net

Also another idea I just had for the open orange space. Create some mud splatter on it. That would stand out and break up the bold orange but also stand out on it well.


I would embrace the orange, make it wider, put the email in there.

I like the mud idea.

[Mike Lane]

If I were you, I'd get an email address that is more professional. mmort@charter.net doesn't seem very business-like. You've already got the domain, spend some time figuring out how to set up an email address to that domain. mike@mikeshots.com would look much more professional and would only re-enforce your website's address. :deal

[bham]

Here's it with some mud. Just a quick example to see the possibility.

http://www.smugmug.com/photos/93805691-M.jpg

What cha think? Maybe even a catchy theme to go with it. I get muddy so you don't have to.

[mikeshots]

I like the mud a lot. Thanks for the great ideas! Maybe I'll get a t-shirt made that says, "I get muddy so you don't have to" on the back. I can wear it while I'm shooting!

[dcyphert]

It's clear that most, if not all, the cards discussed in this thread have been designed by amateurs. It's also clear that many of the cards are the products of well-intentioned folk with not the slightest knowledge or skill in the area of graphic design.


I have to say that when I first read this I sensed a patronizing attitude and clear condescension towards people that are simply showing their creativity.....and just by saying "no offence" doesn't excuse you.

[Shay Stephens]

I have to say that when I first read this I sensed a patronizing attitude and clear condescension towards people that are simply showing their creativity.....and just by saying "no offence" doesn't excuse you.

That is a pretty old post that has already been hashed over.

But one point I would like to make is that creative types are the worst when it comes to sensitivity to critique. So posts that ruffle the feathers are really easy to come across. Learning to deal with such critique is invaluable. So don't dismiss the comments out of hand because of a percieved attitude, instead learn to see the point that is being made. Many times they hold a lot of truth, and that is why they ruffle the feathers the most.

Being challenged to do better than you think is possible is in reality worth more than solid gold. And his comments in particular (which I took to heart) helped me in my card design like few others did.

[SteveF]

Hello,

This has been a fun thread to read. I'm a little late to the game, but here's my latest card:

http://www.finesart.com/temporary/buscard_web.jpg

Not sure it has anything to do with the card or any of this "creative" stuff, but business had been exceptional of late.

[gus]

But one point I would like to make is that creative types are the worst when it comes to sensitivity to critique.

...or people that 'think' they are creative.

[SteveM]

I have to say that when I first read this I sensed a patronizing attitude and clear condescension towards people that are simply showing their creativity.....and just by saying "no offence" doesn't excuse you.
This is probably an out of work graphic designer that spent 4 years of his life in school to be replaced by generic templates on a website, because nobody wants to pay a $130 consulting fee for a $14.95 box of business cards. :D:D

When I'm a millionaire, I'll do the above. Right now, I just want my name and number in their hands. I don't care if it looks like vomit on an Easter Seal as long as it gets noticed and they have my info. :D

Steve
http://www.downriverphotography.com

[SteveM]

I like the mud a lot. Thanks for the great ideas! Maybe I'll get a t-shirt made that says, "I get muddy so you don't have to" on the back. I can wear it while I'm shooting!
http://www.zazzle.com/

They're pretty cheap, the shirts are high quality (none of that iron on crap. The fabric fibers are actually dyed) and you can order ONE shirt if you want. The other places make you order a minimum of 4-6+ usually. They really do a great job. Also consider Smugmug, if you can design a photo to be printed on the shirt instead.

Steve
http://www.downriverphotography.com

[Sundance]

:rofl Sundance Photography :rofl
We don't take pictures, but we will fix those
damaged or screwed up by others. :dunno
Just send me the pieces and we'll digitally tape
them back together. We can fix stuff like redeye
and take a lazy lab pup out of the bride and groom
formal shot. We canprobably replace your lazy
ex-brother-in-law and put the new one in. http://www.dgrin.com/images/icons/Wicked.gif
Digital removal of beer cans will result in custom charges depending on the number of cans.
2" x 2" pics can be enlarged up to 16" x 20" if you hang it on a high wall.
:deal email me or give me a call and we'll see what we can do :wink

[Shay Stephens]

...or people that 'think' they are creative.
Ouch!!! :rofl

[Diane S]

:rofl Sundance Photography :rofl
We don't take pictures, but we will fix those
damaged or screwed up by others. :dunno




:rofl and the sad thing is .. you just 'might' get lots of calls! :D

[R Johns]

Being challenged to do better than you think is possible is in reality worth more than solid gold.
Very true... :nod

Russ

[cdonovan]

Here's mine, I DON'T recommed using avery as i find their templates leave A LOT to be desired And they certainly didn't help me any when it came time for printing:huh

like the suggestions for the pro cards, i wonder if santa will bring me a set of those:scratch

This is the first one I did, and I have another that i have used more recently...lemme see if i can find it again!!!

[AntoineD]

Oh, this is a very funny thread I'm now discovering :ivar

Here is mine, by the way:

http://d.ant.free.fr/dgrin/ad-cartedevisite_200606.jpg

Feel free to contact me :D

[sirsloop]

a good one for the halloween season :)

http://www.jdhaesloop.com/broom_card.JPG

[sirsloop]

one for the horsey events... I'll probably reduce the TMP size, make the TMP font slightly darker, and increase the font size of my name and web addy. I just cooked this up a few minutes ago

http://www.jdhaesloop.com/holly.jpg

[ChuckWC]

Here's mine:

http://www.smugmug.com/photos/98432165-O.jpg (http://www.cwcfineartphotos.com)

The people I've given these to seem to like 'em. :D

[ChrisJ]

I've never had a photo business card... so I'm trying to come up with a design. The company name, URL, and phone are all bogus (just placeholders).

http://chrisandjoy.smugmug.com/photos/99582810-L.jpg

I used a business card template, and all the text is at the edge of the "safe" zone, so it won't be cut. I know the picture is a bit grainy (Sony DSC-P7, 3 MegPixel), printed small I don't think that should be an issue. But I could be wrong!

Let me know what you think! I'm definitely new at this...

[sirsloop]

That'll be fine for a business card...

[truth]

http://www.showyourmedia.com/membersonly/getimg.php?image=lanemeyer/Challenge%20pics/CDSphotobizcrd.jpg&

[Tip Toe Shooter]

Interesting threads. Lots of ideas thrashing around. Here's mine off a film of mine.

[padu]

I'm not a professional photographer. My "official" business card is a boring company card that says "Software development manager". So I thought that having a "fun" business card was a waste.

Reading this thread and the advice of using overnightprints and I thought "why not?".

Here's the result of 1 hour with photoshop:

[AntoineD]

at those time of digital equipments killing good old stuff, I feel very amused to see so much cards with a "film-like" style, don't you? ;) :D

[padu]

at those time of digital equipments killing good old stuff, I feel very amused to see so much cards with a "film-like" style, don't you? ;) :D

I find it quite normal... when companies such as adobe and apple still use terms such as "develop", digital "negative" and "light box", it only means that "old" photographic terms didn't die, they're reapplied on newer paradigms.

Even though negatives are not used as often as it used to be, it will still be in the collective memory for a long time. I think it is the same as measuring the torque of a brand new bugatti using "horse power" unit.

And after all, who's not infatuated by the aura of old time photography? :wink The lab's red light, the smell of a film can...

Cheers

Padu

PS: I'm still amazed with the price and turn time of overnightprints.com. I'm waiting for the delivery of the first batch of cards and confirm how good they are.

[AntoineD]

And after all, who's not infatuated by the aura of old time photography? :wink The lab's red light, the smell of a film can...

...and you handskin itching and everything :D

But, sure, you got a point. :thumb

[ESiggins]

This is an image of what I came up with on a design-your-own business card site. The measurement lines will not be included on the card. Wanted to get some opinions before I take the plunge. Any comments or suggestions?

http://esiggins.smugmug.com/photos/100636472-M.jpg

Thanks,

Fred.

[DavidTO]

http://esiggins.smugmug.com/photos/100636472-Ti.jpg

Thanks,

Fred.


I don't care for the combination of the two fonts. I would stick with copperplate, most likely. Also, the color is kinda tough against the monochrome background. I'm not sure what to suggest, but I don't care for the blue.

I would also think about moving your name and "photographer" down to above the email/url, and make the email/url smaller. This would avoid the word photographer conflicting with the eyebrow, and make the image feel less crowded.

As for the list...I know I don't like "etc.", and I wonder if you could winnow that down a bit, to fewer words, or if it's even necessary.

I guess I would try losing the word "photographer", moving your name down, and in one line below it put "Portraits, Events, Sports, Food", except that the list of what you do seems to be so wide that I would question your expertise in any one of them, the card makes you seem like a jack of all trades, a master of none, ya know? How about a card for each, or at least separate out Sports and Food from Portraits and Events?

[ESiggins]

I don't care for the combination of the two fonts. I would stick with copperplate, most likely. Also, the