Show us your business Card! [Sitemap] - Page 6 - Digital Grin Photography Forum

slrshooter

Oct-15-2008, 05:44 AM

Here's my first card. Hopefully good enough to attract enough punters to pay for the print run, at least.

http://darklightphotography.smugmug.com/photos/390561239_6dVT8-M.jpg

http://darklightphotography.smugmug.com/photos/390561281_537gt-M.jpg

Comments / criticism welcome.

Kevin,

I can't imagine giving this card to someone who is considering you for an event such as a wedding, sports (say a soccer mom), business meeting, etc. Other than that, I like the card.

darklightphotography

Oct-15-2008, 02:52 PM

Kevin,

I can't imagine giving this card to someone who is considering you for an event such as a wedding, sports (say a soccer mom), business meeting, etc. Other than that, I like the card.

Thanks for the opinion Norm. I probably should have noted that my target market is portrait work, and the events I have been shooting are tribal /gothic / middle eastern dance related where I think this design should appeal. I toyed with the idea of putting a variety of images on the card, but they end up way too small to be any use. Landscape / nature is what I want to shoot, but portraits etc provide a better income, at least where I am.

I think I will design an alternate card (or two) with the same front but with a different image/background color, and the same back to suit alternate markets.

Cheers

Kevin

slrshooter

Oct-15-2008, 06:07 PM

Thanks for the opinion Norm. I probably should have noted that my target market is portrait work, and the events I have been shooting are tribal /gothic / middle eastern dance related where I think this design should appeal. I toyed with the idea of putting a variety of images on the card, but they end up way too small to be any use. Landscape / nature is what I want to shoot, but portraits etc provide a better income, at least where I am.

I think I will design an alternate card (or two) with the same front but with a different image/background color, and the same back to suit alternate markets.

Cheers

Kevin

Aaaah, now it makes sense and I understand why you whould have that card. But a more sedate card could be handed out to families who want a portrait or two made to send to Grandma retired in Florida.:D

lfortier

Oct-16-2008, 03:57 PM

I've been using this version for a while. It's from Little Hunter's Beach in Acadia National Park.
http://leefortier.smugmug.com/photos/395636605_ygZkZ-L-1.jpg

IBJC

Oct-17-2008, 01:19 PM

Here is mine......I top one is the front of the card.

Love sports, can you tell??? The back of the card is in grey but I think the next time I will do color...and on the front my email address will be in blue like on my site.

www.imagesbyjeniferclark.com (http://www.imagesbyjeniferclark.com)

http://i33.tinypic.com/f1f95w.jpg

Mike Lane

Oct-19-2008, 05:41 AM

Time for a new biz card. I'm in the (slow) process of updating and unifying my design scheme. Have a look:

http://mikelane.smugmug.com/photos/397324502_QaCGp-XL.jpg

The back will be white and I'll be able to write any additional info on it as required.

areed145

Oct-19-2008, 01:07 PM

http://areed145.smugmug.com/photos/397609618_9KFbm-L.jpg

http://areed145.smugmug.com/photos/397609724_6QjKo-L.jpg

These pretty much mimic the feel of my site. I hope they aren't too busy. Also I was hoping I could get some opinions of whether or not my site should include the list of galleries on the home page. I feel like it is cumbersome for the average person browsing to see all the galleries since they are subdivided in the navbar, but I do think it is cleaner looking without the galleries listed. Let me know!

jpforrest

Oct-20-2008, 08:26 PM

Here is my business card that I did a few years ago for class.

The only thing I don't like about it is the glow doesn't go above the top of the lightbulb.

chrismoore

Oct-23-2008, 04:46 AM

I used VistaPrint, good price, good quality.
http://chrismooreimages.smugmug.com/photos/400631715_JCodr-M-0.jpg

OhEddie

Oct-23-2008, 11:49 AM

Chris,

Normally I don't care for cards with photos on them, but this one works real well. I bet it looks great on glossy stock.

What font is that?

chrismoore

Oct-23-2008, 02:53 PM

Chris,

Normally I don't care for cards with photos on them, but this one works real well. I bet it looks great on glossy stock.

What font is that?

Thanks, Eddie. I did get it in glossy and it turned out well. The font is Zapfino, it comes installed on Macs, not sure about PCs.
Chris

jdryan3

Oct-26-2008, 06:29 PM

Here are 3 of several variations on the same card:

#1 Baseline card
http://www.jdryan3.com/photos/403144264_NqDJG-L-1.jpg

#2 18% Colored background
http://www.jdryan3.com/photos/403144067_hcAm8-L-1.jpg

#3 Same as #2 but with slight white lines between images
http://www.jdryan3.com/photos/403144031_WiBfF-L-1.jpg

I would like feedback on white vs grey background and having the photos bleed into each other or broken up by the white line. There are several other versions (#1 with lines between images, etc) but you get the idea.

Since I can get this printed ganged 8 up in any combination, there are different versions with different images emphasizing landscapes, music/urban, kids/sports, and 'general purpose' card (above).

DavidTO

Oct-26-2008, 07:07 PM

Here are 3 of several variations on the same card:

I don't care for the white lines, but that could be because they're on a gray background. If you're going to use a rule to break up the images, have it be the background color, IMO. But I do like them unbroken.

I like the card overall, but I think that your name and "photography" are floating a bit awkwardly up in the corner. Not that you should move them from the corner, but it's something to do with the font size/leading/spacing. I guess that your name and photography are not different enough. They don't contrast enough in size and weight. A kind of neither here nor there thing. Also, what kind of photography? Are you selling services? If so, I want to know which ones. If it's just a calling card for a hobbyist, then no detail is needed.

Why is your domain a different color than the other type? It makes your logo not special and confuses your message about what is your contact info and what is your artistic flair (logo).

If you're going to do the gray background, I would make the logo darker, or make the background darker and make the logo white, or off-white. Again, more contrast, but this time I mean contrast like we mean in photography, in color values. :deal

Overall, I would go for the white background, make the URL the same as your other contact info, and fix your name/photography in the upper left so they feel more designed, more intentional.

jdryan3

Oct-26-2008, 07:39 PM

I don't care for the white lines, but that could be because they're on a gray background. If you're going to use a rule to break up the images, have it be the background color, IMO. But I do like them unbroken.

Thanks for the feedback. Points all well taken. The word Photography was originally the thinner line of that font, but I see what you are saying about no differentiation. I concur on darkening the logo if a gray background is used. The intent on the matching color for the logo and web URL was to tie them together. Earlier versions had the URL match the other contract info.

I have something like 24 variants (down from MANY more) and after awhile you just end up being too close to the process :huh

Here is the white background/white rule version.
http://www.jdryan3.com/photos/403144449_LYQAT-L-1.jpg

Thanks for the feedback :thumb

dyranged

Oct-28-2008, 07:10 PM

http://dynamicrangephotography.smugmug.com/photos/404972605_NNcYy-XL.jpg

kristencata

Oct-29-2008, 04:37 AM

Hey David,
I was looking through the posts about business cards and came across yours. I have been working on mine for a few days, but I'm still not happy with it. I was wondering what program you designed yours on. I love how you were able to showcase multiple photographs, and I would like to do something similar. Hope to hear from you soon.

Best, Kristen :-)

quote=DavidTO]I knew there was a reason that I put this up here.

So here's two more. I like the idea of getting rid of the big friggin' name, I mean, who really cares, anyway? It's in the URL, right?

First is Trajan, the font on my site, the second is Optima, stretched out a bit.

http://davidrosenthal.smugmug.com/photos/52711301-M.jpg

http://davidrosenthal.smugmug.com/photos/52711328-M-1.jpg[/quote]

Cindy

Oct-30-2008, 03:25 PM

I'm trying to come up with a new clean modern swirly fun yet elegant look... :dunno
These are still in the work it out stage so any honest critique appriciated.
:D

Front attempt:
Note the sun/star between Inspiring Designs... not sure I like it but that's kinda the element I"m leaning towards.

http://id.smugmug.com/photos/406175370_zFyVU-O.jpg

Back side attempt 1:
I have the computer gal with camera in color or black N white... I lean towards liking the color better.

http://id.smugmug.com/photos/406175327_Xa3H6-O.jpg

Back side attempt 2:
Did this one simply cause it better matches my current smugmug header... but I do not like my current one and if I change my look to the above then I'll create a header to match it better.

http://id.smugmug.com/photos/406175350_eMZBr-O.jpg

Frog Lady

Oct-30-2008, 11:33 PM

Hikin' Mike

Oct-31-2008, 11:27 AM

I'm trying to come up with a new clean modern swirly fun yet elegant look... :dunno
These are still in the work it out stage so any honest critique appriciated.
:D

Front attempt:
Note the sun/star between Inspiring Designs... not sure I like it but that's kinda the element I"m leaning towards.

Back side attempt 1:
I have the computer gal with camera in color or black N white... I lean towards liking the color better.

Back side attempt 2:
Did this one simply cause it better matches my current smugmug header... but I do not like my current one and if I change my look to the above then I'll create a header to match it better.

Honestly, I think the front is WAY too busy, but I don't care for 'swilly things' anyway. The whole look (front/back) doesn't say 'clean or elegant' to me. It looks a bit 'urban/street/amateur' to me.

Good luck!

DavidTO

Oct-31-2008, 12:10 PM

madoc

Nov-01-2008, 11:59 AM

http://madocphoto.smugmug.com/photos/407269114_DCzZW-M.jpg
http://madocphoto.smugmug.com/photos/407274417_iPxWG-M.jpg

I've reworked it many times, trying to improve it more and more.

I want to keep it simple and clean, with as little information as possible.

Any suggestion to help me making it better?

Hikin' Mike

Nov-01-2008, 10:39 PM

My first attempt... thoughts would be appreciated.

Apparently the compression pixelated the font... it doesn't look like that on the original.

It doesn't even look like a business card. :scratch

captnemo

Nov-02-2008, 11:47 AM

I used VistaPrint, good price, good quality.
I too use Vistaprint and have been very happy with the cards I recieved from them- They send rather a lot of junk mail though, how many cases of customised stationary do they think I'll order :)
http://captnemo.smugmug.com/photos/408206254_v3QuN-S-2.jpg

pmbpro

Nov-02-2008, 12:33 PM

Here's my card. I did double-sided to avoid cluttering up the front (edited my tel# here)...

http://www.pmbproductions.com/images/pmbimages_card_front.jpg

http://www.pmbproductions.com/images/pmbimages_card_back.jpg

I was going to use Overnight Prints until I found out that they rasterize everything as TIFFs, even if you submit a sharper quality vector/Illustrator file! :huh I figure why submit the cleanest version of my text (esp. for business card size), to only have them downgrade the quality? :scratch I use Adobe Illustrator and wanted to submit vector format / text as outlines to keep the text clean and sharp, not bitmapped.

So, I used Vistaprint. They accept and print Illustrator / vector formats, so that sold me, as well as their samples. This was my first time ordering cards online (I usually deal locally). I ordered my cards on a Wednesday night, and they arrived in my mailbox within a day! I got the "overnight" speed, and the print quality I wanted.:clapI was happy with the stock quality as well.

I don't receive any junk mail from them either, thank goodness. :thumbI went over each order page with a fine-toothed comb to make sure nothing was automatically selected/checked (re receiving any "special offers", etc).

Cindy

Nov-02-2008, 11:01 PM

Cindy - did you realize you have a typo in your 1st two cards (they say "inspirng")

FWIW, I find the front side some what busy. I like the design of the back more, but think the cartoon photographer doesn't fit.

C.

Thank you, thank you as no I hadn't noticed the typo. You'll are wonderful!
I've been re-considering the cartoon photographer myself... seems everyone around here likes her though and says it's so me... camera in hand, coffee and computer nearby... fun at work. Hmmmmm... decisions like these I hate.

Cindy

Nov-02-2008, 11:16 PM

Honestly, I think the front is WAY too busy, but I don't care for 'swilly things' anyway. The whole look (front/back) doesn't say 'clean or elegant' to me. It looks a bit 'urban/street/amateur' to me.

Good luck!

Thank you so much for responding. I love swirlies... (could you tell :D ) but after talking to several people it seems everyone agreed too busy.

After re-reading what I'd wrote and your responce I realized more what I'm after... I said I wanted clean and elegant... but... clean and elegant isn't me... I'm down in the dirt with my sleeves rolled up laughing all the while and having a blast while getting the shots the customer wants.
urban/street with a touch of elegance would be nice but leaves out the country fun loving person in me.
I want my card to say (without words): Fun, down to earth, approachable, at work for you the customer.

Do you feel like the cartoon photographer says amateur? I havn't yet decided whether to keep her or let her go...

Here's a new Cartoon Photographer Card I've been working on along with a matching header for the website. What do ya think? I replaced the fake sun with a star burst.
Should I totally trash this theme or work on it somemore?
http://id.smugmug.com/photos/408837968_Bxjr5-O.jpg

http://id.smugmug.com/photos/408837948_ySEWw-O.jpg

Hikin' Mike

Nov-03-2008, 10:54 AM

...

Do you feel like the cartoon photographer says amateur? I havn't yet decided whether to keep her or let her go...

Yes, very much so.

Here's a new Cartoon Photographer Card I've been working on along with a matching header for the website. What do ya think? I replaced the fake sun with a star burst.
Should I totally trash this theme or work on it somemore?

Honestly the whole card seems 'amateur-ish to me. Sorry. :dunno

PM sent.

Jzazzi

Nov-05-2008, 09:20 PM

Cindy:
The art looks great, but to me it looks copy-paste from a clipart gallery. Perhaps a different style of cartoon would be better, or something that filled the card more. I like a lot of the material on deviantart.com if that helps any.

What a great thread! How about this design? I like it, except that it's completely generic and does not hint that I cover sports, events, and corporate. Not really sure how to make it clear in that regard. Any ideas?

-Justin

FedererPhoto

Nov-11-2008, 02:31 PM

Cindy:
How about this design? I like it, except that it's completely generic and does not hint that I cover sports, events, and corporate. Not really sure how to make it clear in that regard. Any ideas?

-Justin

I think it would be more effective if jzazzi.com was a working site.

I really like the comedy factor of the "I shoot people"... it would make me remember it. And that (combined with giving them your contact information) is really the point, right?

Manfr3d

Dec-22-2008, 02:56 AM

Here is my newly designed card. Photography is a hobby, but sometimes it is nice to have
something to give people I meet along the way when photographing sth. It matches the
theme of my website:

I think I'll also need a backside design to make it complete, or maybe I should just leave it black?

denisegoldberg

Dec-22-2008, 06:40 AM

I think I'll also need a backside design to make it complete, or maybe I should just leave it black?
I would recommend using one of the lighter grays from your design on the back. That would allow people to write notes on the card, where a black background wouldn't.

--- Denise

com3

Dec-22-2008, 02:49 PM

ian408

Dec-22-2008, 03:47 PM

AWESOME! "hello, my name is....(i shoot people)..." i like that! that's really catchy! :clap :thumb
Creeped me out a bit :lol3

Hi Joe :wave

com3

Dec-22-2008, 04:46 PM

Creeped me out a bit :lol3

Hi Joe :wave

hey ian! long time no see!

takeflightphoto

Dec-26-2008, 07:26 PM

www.clubflyers.com

Not sure if anyone's mentioned this site or not, and with 149 pages of posts, I'm not reading through the whole thread to find out.

They do a very nice job with two sided, glossy business cards and postcards and are quite reasonably priced. Mainly marketed to the indie music scene, but heck, why not photographers?

jon

Jon Lyksett
Take Flight Photography
www.takeflightphoto.com

ian408

Dec-26-2008, 08:02 PM

hey ian! long time no see!
Hiya Joe!

torags

Dec-26-2008, 08:15 PM

I have been reading this thread with interest. There are some nice card designs and some not so nice.

But all think they should have ONE card design. I disagree.

Personally I have two cards, for two purposes. One as a Real Estate Broker and one as an officer of an unrelated corporation.

Photographers who work in different environments serving different clients should consider the market they wish to sell to and match the card to that market.

Example: Suppose you shoot portraits for a living and your card reflects that. But you love to shoot motorsports and want to get published. Would you give the "portrait" card to the art director at the social event and expect to get credibility? Hmmm....

It seems to me, the biz card can be the first step of a new relationship, it can be an advertisement (stylishly subtle or in your face) and a lot of posters recognize that. But the design can categorize you, for better or worse.

my .02

Rags

com3

Dec-27-2008, 09:47 AM

www.clubflyers.com

Not sure if anyone's mentioned this site or not, and with 149 pages of posts, I'm not reading through the whole thread to find out.

They do a very nice job with two sided, glossy business cards and postcards and are quite reasonably priced. Mainly marketed to the indie music scene, but heck, why not photographers?

looks like they do hav pretty good prices! thanks for the link! :thumb

Cindy

Dec-28-2008, 05:53 AM

I ditched the cartoon computer girl I had previously (thank you everyone) and come up with this.
Because I'm in a rural area 4 miles out of town I've put a small map and driving directions on the back. Here's the front. Thoughts?

http://www.inspiringdesigns.net/photos/443827644_qfwEF-M.jpg

Website header is along the same lines however I'm still playing with it... http://www.inspiringdesigns.net

Hikin' Mike

Dec-28-2008, 01:12 PM

I ditched the cartoon computer girl I had previously (thank you everyone) and come up with this.
Because I'm in a rural area 4 miles out of town I've put a small map and driving directions on the back. Here's the front. Thoughts?

Website header is along the same lines however I'm still playing with it... http://www.inspiringdesigns.net

Can you really see these six small pictures at 2" x 3"? I can hardly see them on the web. I'm not a fan of pictures on a business card, but if you must have a picture on your card, pick one. I think your recent attempt is better, but it still looks too busy.

If you have a map on the back, them list the address there. I would remove the "Owner/Photographer"...that should be obvious.

LouDoggsRuca

Dec-29-2008, 06:15 PM

Looking for a little bit of help here. I am going to be using these mainly for racing events. I am trying to keep it simple and clean but a little "edgy" or grungey.

http://jbhotshots.smugmug.com/photos/445142966_Gjh2n-M.jpg

http://jbhotshots.smugmug.com/photos/445142973_WQuiz-M.jpg

These are going to be 4x6 hand out more than business cards. Not going to get into the whole bit of it, not like I would explain it to everyone I hand it out to but, it's really all metaphorical. The card has two sides, one clean, one not so much; a lot like my self. Trying to keep with this, can anyone help?

com3

Dec-29-2008, 07:05 PM

These are going to be 4x6 hand out more than business cards. Not going to get into the whole bit of it, not like I would explain it to everyone I hand it out to but, it's really all metaphorical. The card has two sides, one clean, one not so much; a lot like my self. Trying to keep with this, can anyone help?

cheap prints! almost all i shoot is racing as well, and my print prices are pretty much double everything you've got listed...AND my prices are cheaper than my local competition...

ian408

Dec-29-2008, 08:13 PM

cheap prints! almost all i shoot is racing as well, and my print prices are pretty much double everything you've got listed...AND my prices are cheaper than my local competition...
You left out the part where you're better than most as well :D

LouDoggsRuca

Dec-30-2008, 04:11 AM

You left out the part where you're better than most as well :D

Thank you!! :D

denisegoldberg

Dec-30-2008, 05:34 AM

Looking for a little bit of help here. I am going to be using these mainly for racing events. I am trying to keep it simple and clean but a little "edgy" or grungey.

These are going to be 4x6 hand out more than business cards. Not going to get into the whole bit of it, not like I would explain it to everyone I hand it out to but, it's really all metaphorical. The card has two sides, one clean, one not so much; a lot like my self. Trying to keep with this, can anyone help?
It may just be me, but I look at the "grungy" side of your card, and I see sloppy. You're trying to sell your work. A sloppy card to me translates to sloppy or careless photography too. I'm sure that's not what you're trying to sell, but that's what it says to me.

--- Denise

LouDoggsRuca

Dec-30-2008, 06:26 AM

It may just be me, but I look at the "grungy" side of your card, and I see sloppy. You're trying to sell your work. A sloppy card to me translates to sloppy or careless photography too. I'm sure that's not what you're trying to sell, but that's what it says to me.

--- Denise

Ok, I kind of see where you are going with that. Are you saying grungy is sloppy or just the style I used?

denisegoldberg

Dec-30-2008, 06:28 AM

Ok, I kind of see where you are going with that. Are you saying grungy is sloppy or just the style I used?
The style you used on the back of the card (the price list) looks sloppy to me. Looks like you don't care. And I know that can't be true.

--- Denise

LouDoggsRuca

Dec-30-2008, 06:36 AM

The style you used on the back of the card (the price list) looks sloppy to me. Looks like you don't care. And I know that can't be true.

--- Denise

Not the picture I am trying to paint at all, you're right. I will have to work on it some more tonight, but I do appreciate your help.

LouDoggsRuca

Dec-30-2008, 05:44 PM

Ok, I hate to put the front on again but for reference here we go.

http://www.jbhotshots.com/photos/445142966_Gjh2n-M.jpg

http://www.jbhotshots.com/photos/445733967_kXgZq-M.jpg

Hopefully this is better. It is probably closer to the look I am going for anyway.

Hikin' Mike

Dec-30-2008, 05:53 PM

Ok, I hate to put the front on again but for reference here we go.

Hopefully this is better. It is probably closer to the look I am going for anyway.

Better, but I don't like the angled text ("Prices will be ...") on your price page. It looks like you forgot to include it, so you just put it on the side. :scratch

LouDoggsRuca

Dec-30-2008, 06:23 PM

Ok, no need for the back, lets see. I surely am at a loss as I only start posting after I thought I had something good. Apparently not so much. I am going to get this no matter what it takes so please bear with me. I think I like this one the best but lets see what you think.

http://jbhotshots.smugmug.com/photos/445763364_cw2WS-M-0.jpg

DonRicklin

Dec-30-2008, 06:34 PM

Personally i think it will be hard to read when it is actual business card size. Black, as has been said before, for a background makes it hard for one to write extra note on the card, also.

And a clean font makes for better understanding and a cleaner (pun intended) look!

My 2¢,
Don

LouDoggsRuca

Dec-30-2008, 06:42 PM

These will be 4x6 hand outs more than a business card. But PWT on the black color. I don't think they will need to write much on there as all of the info would be covered by what I put on the card. I am also going for a clean look on the front and showing my "dirty" side on the price list side. It's really metaphorical but.

Angelo

Dec-30-2008, 06:43 PM

proper spelling is always a good thing also :thumb

LouDoggsRuca

Dec-30-2008, 06:52 PM

proper spelling is always a good thing also :thumb

:agree

Other than that, am I getting closer?

torags

Dec-30-2008, 07:09 PM

:agree

Other than that, am I getting closer?

Jamie did you count how many different fonts you're using on the face? There seems to be a lot going on without aesthetic benefit..

LouDoggsRuca

Dec-30-2008, 07:22 PM

Jamie did you count how many different fonts you're using on the face? There seems to be a lot going on without aesthetic benefit..

It was three so I removed the word photographer completely. I figure 98% of the time I will have my camera with me when I hand them out.

com3

Dec-30-2008, 10:34 PM

Jeremy Winterberg

Dec-31-2008, 03:07 AM

Aight, this is something I just threw together in like a minute, so tell me what you think, and what needs to be improved.

I printed out a few on my home printer, and they didn't look too good, so I need advice on what to do with the font. Should I just go plain font or should I use something similar to what I have thats better than it...:scratch no rush on the cards, I just thought it would be cool to have some to promote my services. :D

There are two different versions for the background. one with a picture of me, and the other kind of a weird lookin bevel indent thingme.. idk what to call it haha.

Also, this is my first business card design(s), should I be making them the 3.5x2 or should I make them bigger so that the people that make them have to shrink them a bit which would give them a better resolution I think.

Style #1

http://jeremywinterberg.smugmug.com/photos/445985526_e8LyA-O.jpg

Style #2

http://jeremywinterberg.smugmug.com/photos/445985524_Bn9Aw-O.jpg

LouDoggsRuca

Dec-31-2008, 04:09 AM

just a thought....but if you're printing these handouts yerself, that's a LOT of black ink...

http://www.gotprint.com

I want to say that I appreciate all of the help that has been given. Everything was super helpful and I think I have something that I like now.

caroline

Dec-31-2008, 08:00 AM

Jeremy, I don't find the font you are using very easy to read at that size.
The version with a pic of you as a background is even more difficult to read.
Just my 2 cents,
Caroline

Jeremy Winterberg

Dec-31-2008, 12:47 PM

Jeremy, I don't find the font you are using very easy to read at that size.
The version with a pic of you as a background is even more difficult to read.
Just my 2 cents,
Caroline

I know, thats why I brought it to here so I could fix it... well I'll work on it alot today, and upload another version later... other advise would be greatly appreciated!!

AaronNelson

Dec-31-2008, 01:07 PM

Style #2

http://jeremywinterberg.smugmug.com/photos/445985524_Bn9Aw-O.jpg

i say this not to offend, but just as a point...
non-photog peoples would look at this and say....
what a doof, he has the flash facing the wrong way....

Jeremy Winterberg

Dec-31-2008, 01:43 PM

i say this not to offend, but just as a point...
non-photog peoples would look at this and say....
what a doof, he has the flash facing the wrong way....

Haha, yeah I can see that happening. I had it up because a. I needed flash, and b. I was facing into a mirror so the flash would've made it look like a myspace profile picture.

ok... here is my new VERY MUCH improved business card... let me know what cha think eh?

and since smugmug is having temporary difficulties? I'm attaching it instead of uploading it.

Cuong

Dec-31-2008, 02:11 PM

I know, thats why I brought it to here so I could fix it... well I'll work on it alot today, and upload another version later... other advise would be greatly appreciated!!I would loose the image of the hidden photog since it makes the card harder to read. If you want people to recognize you then include a portrait that's not covered up by text or hidden behind something.

The newer version is much better, but not the shadow in the contact area.

Cuong

Jeremy Winterberg

Dec-31-2008, 02:42 PM

I would loose the image of the hidden photog since it makes the card harder to read. If you want people to recognize you then include a portrait that's not covered up by text or hidden behind something.

The newer version is much better, but not the shadow in the contact area.

Cuong

how bout this? made the shadow a little lighter, moved contact info to the right.

Hikin' Mike

Dec-31-2008, 07:59 PM

how bout this? made the shadow a little lighter, moved contact info to the right.

Remove the shadow and the brackets. Pick a different font on your specialties. It looks too 'child-ish'....unless that's your market. I would get a 'real' e-mail address, like yourname@yourwebsite.com. When I see an e-mail from Yahoo, Gmail etc it just looks too amateur-ish.

Jeremy Winterberg

Jan-01-2009, 01:37 AM

Remove the shadow and the brackets. Pick a different font on your specialties. It looks to 'child-ish'....unless that's your market. I would get a 'real' e-mail address. When I see an e-mail from Yahoo, Gmail etc it just looks too amateur-ish.

charter.net isn't yahoo or gmail or hotmail... its an internet provider... so I'm not really sure how you're getting an unprofessional vibe from that? I could use an email from my website, but jwinterberg@winterbergphotography.com just seems a LITTLE too long to me.

but I agree with the font for the specialties, it is too childish. and I do like it without the brackets.

Heres my final version, already ordered them so ha! you can't make me change my mind now. just let me know what you think of it.

http://jeremywinterberg.smugmug.com/photos/446333161_WdojJ-M.jpg

Hikin' Mike

Jan-01-2009, 02:16 AM

Using any e-mail but your own domain looks unprofessional, IMO. The font looks much better though.

Heres my final version, already ordered them so ha! you can't make me change my mind now.
Are you still in high school by chance?

Since you already sent then to the printer...it's too late to tell you NOT to use a border around your card. Why? Because when the printer cuts them to size, they may not cut them perfectly uniform around all 4 edges.

Good luck....

Jeremy Winterberg

Jan-01-2009, 02:24 PM

Using any e-mail but your own domain looks unprofessional, IMO. The font looks much better though.

Are you still in high school by chance?

Since you already sent then to the printer...it's too late to tell you NOT to use a border around your card. Why? Because when the printer cuts them to size, they may not cut them perfectly uniform around all 4 edges.

Good luck....

The company that I am having them printed through (www.gotprint.com (http://www.gotprint.com)) told me to show them where to cut them at, which is what that black border is. I also gave them the PSD file, so they can adjust it how it needs to be.

Yes, I am a Senior in high school, but I dont see what that has to do with my business card.

I asked several friends (adults not kids if thats what you're thinking)that are business owners in my area, and they all said they like it more with the border.

LouDoggsRuca

Jan-01-2009, 02:51 PM

The company that I am having them printed through (www.gotprint.com (http://www.gotprint.com)) told me to show them where to cut them at, which is what that black border is. I also gave them the PSD file, so they can adjust it how it needs to be.

Actually, you're supposed to remove the lines before you send them the file to print. Those are just guidelines for you. You might want to download their templates and they will have the guidlines set up for you already with the instructions to make sure to remove them. I also am not so sure about the PSD, I don't think they will do any adjusting for you for obvious reasons. Check out the uploading specs again to be sure.

Hikin' Mike

Jan-01-2009, 03:01 PM

The company that I am having them printed through (www.gotprint.com (http://www.gotprint.com)) told me to show them where to cut them at, which is what that black border is. I also gave them the PSD file, so they can adjust it how it needs to be.

Yes, I am a Senior in high school, but I dont see what that has to do with my business card.

I asked several friends (adults not kids if thats what you're thinking)that are business owners in my area, and they all said they like it more with the border.

Absolutely nothing, in fact I like the design of your card...for the most part.

It was your comment ..."already ordered them so ha! you can't make me change my mind now" that made me think that you were a little 'young'.

I'd like to see how it looks when you have it printed. I hope they can cut it square. Check this out, #9 (http://blog.uprinting.com/10-tips-on-how-to-design-your-own-business-card/). :D

Jeremy Winterberg

Jan-01-2009, 03:46 PM

Actually, you're supposed to remove the lines before you send them the file to print. Those are just guidelines for you. You might want to download their templates and they will have the guidlines set up for you already with the instructions to make sure to remove them. I also am not so sure about the PSD, I don't think they will do any adjusting for you for obvious reasons. Check out the uploading specs again to be sure.

really? I wish they would've said something about that in the preparing your file section. cause it said to add crop marks, and didn't say to take them out? CROP MARKS:
Please build your press-ready digital files by adding crop marks.
Lines indicating where the paper should be cut to produce the correct size.

Unless I'm reading that wrong it says to add them... Like I said, if they dont turn out good, I'm only out $20 and I'll reorder them without any bordering.

LouDoggsRuca

Jan-01-2009, 04:15 PM

really? I wish they would've said something about that in the preparing your file section. cause it said to add crop marks, and didn't say to take them out?

Unless I'm reading that wrong it says to add them... Like I said, if they dont turn out good, I'm only out $20 and I'll reorder them without any bordering.

Just when ever they send you a proof, don't accept it and reupload one w/o the boarders.

Here is what the template for the 4x6 postacard says.

http://jbhotshots.smugmug.com/photos/446737416_PHjRJ-L.jpg

Jeremy Winterberg

Jan-01-2009, 05:07 PM

Just when ever they send you a proof, don't accept it and reupload one w/o the boarders.

Here is what the template for the 4x6 postacard says.

ok, see I wasn't looking at 4x6 postcards... but yeah, I'll decline it then upload another one without borders.

com3

Jan-01-2009, 09:41 PM

gimme $50 and your logo and i'll design you some suh-weet biz cards. :wink

i've already posted what my cards look like... i've since made a few small changes...

here's my first card from a few years ago with a blank back
http://www.seppes.com/photos/152035594_uGAW9-M-1.jpg

then i decided those sucked so i made this:

back
http://www.seppes.com/photos/151896510_qXyeT-M.jpg

front
http://www.seppes.com/photos/151896075_Z3Y4M-M-1.jpg

about a year later, i decided that sucked so i made this:

front
http://www.seppes.com/photos/243979592_Fin9b-M-1.jpg

back
http://www.seppes.com/photos/244338700_qroZE-M.jpg

...but no one seemed to understand that you were supposed to look at the card portrait style...even with the giant "4" in the background... so i snipped the best of each design and made these; which are now my current cards in heavy gloss card stock with rounded corners...

front:
http://www.seppes.com/photos/243979592_Fin9b-M-1.jpg

back:
http://www.seppes.com/photos/151896510_qXyeT-M.jpg

now i just need to quit being so damned lazy and make some cards for my seppes.com domain (more general photog rather than just motorbikes).

Raphy

Jan-03-2009, 04:47 PM

This is one i'm working on as we speak.... here's what i have so far. Any input would be much appreciated!!!!! :thumb

FRONT:
http://photog-raphy.smugmug.com/photos/448145478_dnWeK-L.jpg

BACK:
http://photog-raphy.smugmug.com/photos/448145460_9DuTg-L.jpg

com3

Jan-04-2009, 05:57 PM

This is one i'm working on as we speak.... here's what i have so far. Any input would be much appreciated!!!!! :thumb

BACK:
http://photog-raphy.smugmug.com/photos/448145460_9DuTg-L.jpg

front = nice!
back = ...but why you gonna give someone a pic of yourself? especially one that appears as though you may not have even taken it.

Jeremy Winterberg

Jan-04-2009, 06:38 PM

front = nice!
back = ...but why you gonna give someone a pic of yourself? especially one that appears as though you may not have even taken it.

I agree, I think for your card a simple black and white self portrait... you know, one of those close up ones where you're wearing a black turtle neck?:wink Would look a lot better for this card.

Otherwise I like it, and especially that your name is part of Photography that's cool. What if you did something other than photography? it wouldn't work. You're name has destined you to be a photographer.:D

Raphy

Jan-04-2009, 07:10 PM

Jeremy Winterberg

Jan-04-2009, 07:48 PM

THanks guys... i did take the self-portrait myself... i thought i goes with the "mood" of the card and my website... i'm still undecided about the photo... but u really think it doesn't work ??? :scratch

thanks for the input - i appreciate it !!!

I take it back, I like it. it does match your website, and probably your personality. I didn't look at your site before, and its amazing. Did you do that yourself?

anyways. I think if you could redo the picture, except facing the other way. It just feels like you're running away from the text which kind of creates tension when looking at it.

W.W. Webster

Jan-04-2009, 08:00 PM

i'm still undecided about the photo... Stick with it! The card is your card, to introduce you.

IMHO your chosen image is clean and professional, large but not dominant, and consistent with the overall look and feel of the card. It sure beats a montage smorgasbord of tiny, unmemorable thumbnails that are often seen on business cards posted here!

Raphy

Jan-04-2009, 08:06 PM

I take it back, I like it. it does match your website, and probably your personality. I didn't look at your site before, and its amazing. Did you do that yourself?

Thanks ! I just finished the site... i actually used a template and modified it to suit my needs. Still needs some work but overall i'm happy - especially considering i don't know much about flash or html... lol... so this was/is a big learning experience...

Raphy

Jan-04-2009, 08:09 PM

Stick with it! The card is your card, to introduce you.

IMHO your chosen image is clean and professional, large but not dominant, and consistent with the overall look and feel of the card. It sure beats a montage smorgasbord of tiny, unmemorable thumbnails that are often seen on business cards posted here!

Thanks a lot for the comments. :thumb ... i only said i'm undecided about the photo cause when i took the photo, i wasn't aiming to glorify my charming good looks :rofl ... i just don't want to come across as some miserable grumpy photog :rolleyes :huh

:D

com3

Jan-04-2009, 08:11 PM

THanks guys... i did take the self-portrait myself... i thought i goes with the "mood" of the card and my website... i'm still undecided about the photo... but u really think it doesn't work ??? :scratch

thanks for the input - i appreciate it !!!

IMO, after taking a quick glance at yer site, i think you've got way better pics that still "fit the mood" to choose from other than a self portrait.

i could be the minority, but if someone gave me a card with a pic of themself on it, it'd make me giggle... unless she was really hot. :D

Raphy

Jan-04-2009, 08:14 PM

What do u guys think of putting a line like "events - weddings - live music - headshots - portraits" etc etc.... to show what i do ? or would not having that line make you want to go and visit the site to see what it is that i do ?

i'm new at this so let me know what u think :scratch ... and thank you for all the feedback so far!

thank you :thumb

Raphy

Jan-04-2009, 08:16 PM

IMO, after taking a quick glance at yer site, i think you've got way better pics that still "fit the mood" to choose from other than a self portrait.

I have thought (and still thinking) about this - but the problem i'm having is choosing that pic.... if i choose a motorcycle, ppl will assume i only do bikes, if i have a landscape, ppl will think i only do landscapes, etc. you get the point... so at least with this pic, it's just plain old me... lol

man..this is hard... lol :scratch :scratch :scratch :scratch :scratch :dunno

com3

Jan-04-2009, 08:21 PM

I have thought (and still thinking) about this - but the problem i'm having is choosing that pic.... if i choose a motorcycle, ppl will assume i only do bikes, if i have a landscape, ppl will think i only do landscapes, etc. you get the point... so at least with this pic, it's just plain old me... lol

you could put a picture of a photo... :deal

http://www.dollidesign.com/Images1/poloroid.gif

Raphy

Jan-04-2009, 08:23 PM

you could put a picture of a photo... :deal

http://www.dollidesign.com/Images1/poloroid.gif

LOL.... nice ! :thumb

Jeremy Winterberg

Jan-04-2009, 09:05 PM

On my business card I say what I specialize in. I think its good to have it because then people know when to come to YOU to get their pictures done. Customers dont want to have to go to your site to see what you do. They go there to see how well you can do the things you say you can do. Get what I'm saying?

Where did you get the template? by chance... was it free?:D I'm sure it wasn't though:cry I hate being a low budget photographer.

com3

Jan-04-2009, 10:15 PM

Jeremy Winterberg

Jan-04-2009, 10:45 PM

less is more, more often than not, methinks.

True, but its not like it takes up THAT much room on the card... all in all, its up to him how he wants his card. My vote is yes for the specialties...

Manfr3d

Jan-04-2009, 10:47 PM

THanks guys... i did take the self-portrait myself... i thought i goes with the "mood" of the card and my website... i'm still undecided about the photo... but u really think it doesn't work ??? :scratch

thanks for the input - i appreciate it !!!
I would retake the photograph, because the facial expression shows indifference to me. Just my opinion of course :thumb

Hikin' Mike

Jan-04-2009, 10:48 PM

This is one i'm working on as we speak.... here's what i have so far. Any input would be much appreciated!!!!! :thumb

I'm not sure if I like the embossing on the text. Since you have your own domain, then lose the yahoo e-mail and use your name@yourname.com. Using a yahoo, gmail etc looks so un-professional looking IMO.

I like your 'logo' and I remember working on it a few months ago. :D Not a big fan of photos on a business card, but this doesn't look too bad. I agree with Jeremy...put the photo on the other side. As it is it looks like your looking into space.

Hikin' Mike

Jan-04-2009, 10:51 PM

One more thing....I would list your specialties. It looks like you shoot just about everything anyway, so just say "Photographer".

On my card I just say "Photography", but seeing my card, it should be obvious that I shoot nature and not weddings, portraits etc! :D

http://www.thebackcountry.org/images/web_temp/HikerDudeBusinessCard.jpg

com3

Jan-04-2009, 10:54 PM

http://www.thebackcountry.org/images/web_temp/HikerDudeBusinessCard.jpg

ooh! i like that one! simple and poignant at the same time! atwater, eh? i've shot at the track down there. :D

Hikin' Mike

Jan-04-2009, 10:56 PM

ooh! i like that one! simple and poignant at the same time! atwater, eh? i've shot at the track down there. :D
Thanks!...and I used to drag race in Sacramento Raceway!

Raphy

Jan-05-2009, 06:20 PM

OK, so i spent most of the evening so far getting my new email address at my domain. So it is now info *at* raphnogal *dot* com :) much better than the YAHOO one... thanks for the suggestion !!!

I also worked on changing the self portrait and looking the other way towards the text and it just doesn't work. additionally, I came up with this for the BACK of the card.... i plan on keeping the logo on the front as indicated earlier :)

...any thoughts ?

http://photog-raphy.smugmug.com/photos/449699229_2nVvt-L.jpg

:scratch :dunno :huh :thumb

com3

Jan-05-2009, 08:00 PM

...any thoughts ?

iz nize!

Raphy

Jan-05-2009, 09:27 PM

iz nize!

Thanks...

OK so now THIS IS MY FINAL DESIGN for the back of the card... THE END ! :rofl

http://photog-raphy.smugmug.com/photos/449820909_dinu4-L.jpg

Thanks you all for your feedback - it is priceless ! THANKS !!!! :thumb :thumb :thumb

com3

Jan-06-2009, 02:53 AM

Thanks...

OK so now THIS IS MY FINAL DESIGN for the back of the card... THE END ! :rofl

http://photog-raphy.smugmug.com/photos/449820909_dinu4-L.jpg

Thanks you all for your feedback - it is priceless ! THANKS !!!! :thumb :thumb :thumb

just a quick heads up, but the dark text prolly won't show up on the cards...or be so faint no one will ever notice it.

Raphy

Jan-06-2009, 04:37 AM

just a quick heads up, but the dark text prolly won't show up on the cards...or be so faint no one will ever notice it.

Ya, i'm aware of that... that's sort of the idea... i dont want that text overpowering anything...so if it's faint, that that will be fine...if it doesnt come out, no big deal :D ... maybe i'll raise the opacity a tiny little bit, we'll see :)

jeffsanjuan

Jan-06-2009, 10:07 PM

Hey Raphy.....love that night shot. I also like the faint words and how you cut them off. Also, the faint part is key, but I would try to find the balance to where it does in fact show through. Otherwise it would seem you intentionally create an unnecessary void.....so lettem see it....it's nice! Great job...I'll post mine. =)

jeffsanjuan

Jan-06-2009, 10:10 PM

http://i401.photobucket.com/albums/pp99/5iveStarStudios/5ive_Star_BUSINESS_CARD_1_FRONT_SAM.jpg?t=1231307179

http://i401.photobucket.com/albums/pp99/5iveStarStudios/5ive_Star_BUSINESS_CARD_1_BACK_SAMP.jpg?t=1231308520

clemensphoto's

Jan-06-2009, 10:14 PM

Jeff, really like the second one. Looks like a high end photographer's creditial - photographer for the rich and famous.:rofl

jeffsanjuan

Jan-06-2009, 10:45 PM

Jeff, really like the second one. Looks like a high end photographer's creditial - photographer for the rich and famous.:rofl
Thanks, Clemens!

That was my exact intent when I set out to design the front (1st picture). I wanted to go "grand". The made the 1st graphic the front of the card to lend me an opportunity and moment to interact. The ornate framing was actually a photo of a part of a mirror in my living room....my wife picked it!

Your compliments to the 2nd one is very much appreciated. =)

denisegoldberg

Jan-07-2009, 04:18 AM

Your compliments to the 2nd one is very much appreciated.
I find the text on the 2nd one to be very difficult to read. The background graphic is just too distracting.
Obscuring your web site, email address, and phone number doesn't seem like a good idea to me.

--- Denise

com3

Jan-07-2009, 10:05 AM

http://i401.photobucket.com/albums/pp99/5iveStarStudios/5ive_Star_BUSINESS_CARD_1_FRONT_SAM.jpg?t=1231307179

dat's ballin, yo! i'm fin ta get us a bottle of cryst-al 'fo we get our club on!

caroline

Jan-07-2009, 10:11 AM

dat's ballin, yo! i'm fin ta get us a bottle of cryst-al 'fo we get our club on!
What does this mean please ?
Caroline

jeffsanjuan

Jan-07-2009, 10:30 AM

I find the text on the 2nd one to be very difficult to read. The background graphic is just too distracting.
Obscuring your web site, email address, and phone number doesn't seem like a good idea to me.

--- Denise
That's quite all right Denise. Many, maybe even most would make that comment, and that's "quite all right". You're right where too much would create clutter and distraction....but not always is this harmful. I'm the Creative Director of a design firm where I even encourage the same technique on many of our marketing promotions. With this, we aim for high aesthetic appeal with the intent of creating art that will even *require* a 2nd glance.

Even if one had to find it, we succeeded in grabbing their attention. This isn't a billboard on the side of a Greyhound Bus whizzin' by. It's something I handed to someone....trust me, this particular card would not get thrown out because it wasn't black on white.

P.S.- I've been to Andover, MA...I have friends there. Nice area....you must live in a castle, huh? =D

com3

Jan-07-2009, 10:38 AM

What does this mean please ?
Caroline

uh... it's a silly way of saying "that's nice; i like it. it looks upscale."

caroline

Jan-07-2009, 10:48 AM

uh... it's a silly way of saying "that's nice; i like it. it looks upscale."
Aaaah, so it was English :-) Sorry, I'm in the UK and I just couldn't get it, thanks for explaining.
Caroline

jeffsanjuan

Jan-07-2009, 10:53 AM

uh... it's a silly way of saying "that's nice; i like it. it looks upscale."
Good looks, Com! I was actually lookin' forward to droppin' a bottle of goose up in the vipizzle, Son Son!

com3

Jan-07-2009, 10:56 AM

Good looks, Com! I was actually lookin' forward to droppin' a bottle of goose up in the vipizzle, Son Son!

werd.

seriously tho, i really like that design... i just may have to use a similar idea for something...if you don't mind, of course. :D

caroline

Jan-07-2009, 10:57 AM

Good looks, Com! I was actually lookin' forward to droppin' a bottle of goose up in the vipizzle, Son Son!
C'mon guys, you are taking the ***** here :rofl

Caroline

jeffsanjuan

Jan-07-2009, 11:00 AM

werd.

seriously tho, i really like that design... i just may have to use a similar idea for something...if you don't mind, of course. :D

If you're makin' original designs and it's just inspiration, I don't mind at all, Homie....I'd be flattered.

J Perez

Jan-07-2009, 11:51 AM

Plain, simple, and clean...

http://jperez.smugmug.com/photos/450767188_nPCkF-M.jpg

Jeremy Winterberg

Jan-08-2009, 05:23 PM

Ok, so I'm really excited. Just got my business cards. UPS was a little slow, they usually come by around 5 and they didn't come till 7. Anyways, they look AMAZING! Thanks for all the help with my design everybody!

I HIGHLY recommend www.GotPrint.com (http://www.gotprint.com) They are very fast, inexpensive, and the quality is SUPERB! I paid $13 for 1000 cards, $22 with shipping from California to Wisconsin. Not bad when it would cost me about $60 locally for 500!

Now I just gotta get a business card holder, and 1000 people to give them out to!

Hikin' Mike

Jan-08-2009, 06:11 PM

com3

Jan-08-2009, 06:27 PM

i just spent the last 20 mins making these...

EDIT// just ordered up 100 of em in heavy card stock with rounded corners + glossy... we'll see how they turn out. :D

front:

http://4theriders.smugmug.com/photos/451505471_xRiQD-L.jpg

back:

http://4theriders.smugmug.com/photos/451505541_WEYdK-L-1.jpg

cindieye

Jan-08-2009, 09:50 PM

jeffsanjuan

Jan-09-2009, 12:43 PM

http://www.cindi-withaneye.com/photos/311501122_G6AmC-M.jpg

This is the front of my card on the back is my contact info. It's an oversized card which I love. My husband is a RockStar Graphic Artist and deserves all the credit for naming my business and illustrating "Cindi Cyclops." Hip hip hooray www.kipcreative.com (http://www.kipcreative.com) :thumb
Man, Cindi (with an I of course)....I love it! The concept and everything behind it. I checked out your husband's work....and though I too am a RockStar Designer, man is he Bad~Ass!!!....very original concepts.....very impressed. Wish I thought of 1/2 of those myself! =D

Jeremy Winterberg

Jan-09-2009, 01:36 PM

LOL!!

Did you remove the border before you ordered them? How about a picture of the card?

yes, I did remove the border. It would've been cut off probably so I'm glad you guys yelled at me to take it off. how about a picture of the box of business cards? lol

http://jeremywinterberg.smugmug.com/photos/451924000_iSqpG-L.jpg

http://jeremywinterberg.smugmug.com/photos/451924027_yJA9e-L.jpg

Hikin' Mike

Jan-09-2009, 03:15 PM

yes, I did remove the border. It would've been cut off probably so I'm glad you guys yelled at me to take it off. how about a picture of the box of business cards? lol

:D

Looks good Jeremy...hope you do well! :thumb

Raphy

Jan-09-2009, 03:34 PM

Love the Cindi card ! Awesome ! and Jeremy, nice card, simple and clean !

Candid Arts

Jan-09-2009, 03:39 PM

I'm sure its in one of the MANY pages on this thread, but where do people get their business cards printed at? I've heard great things about whcc.com, I've got some card samples from them and they look to be good quality. Just curious where people are getting them printed at and what's the best/cheapest out there.

Thanks!

Raphy

Jan-09-2009, 04:37 PM

I found vistaprint to be pretty good...and considering usually shipping to Canada makes-it-or-breaks-it for me, vistaprint is quite reasonable. Keep in mind they try to sell you EVERYTHING... so u just need to resist...also lookup coupon codes for even bigger discounts.

Jeremy Winterberg

Jan-09-2009, 05:10 PM