Project Details
Small Ads, Big Impact.
In this portfolio, you’ll find a variety of projects, some of which are larger and more detailed, providing rich case studies. However, part of my design experience comes from my time working at a newspaper and during that time I was responsible for creating a high volume of small one off ads.
Client:
Various Local Businesses & people
Programs Used
Indesign, Photoshop, Illustrator
Fun Fact:
I’ve done so many small ads I used to dream of putting them together as I slept!
Design Challenges in a Newspaper Setting
Design Challenges
Working in a newspaper design team came with unique challenges. Our team was small—only three designers, and at times just two—and we often had 80 to 100 ads in the queue every day. With such a high volume of work, the average time spent on each ad was about 15 minutes. Larger ads required more time, but the sheer number of smaller ads meant we had to work efficiently. We often worked with businesses with little to no branding and clients who often lacked an understanding of basic design principles. Additionally, communication could be challenging, as clients often provided unclear instructions, and feedback was sometimes harsh or overly critical. These obstacles forced me to adapt and find creative ways to manage client expectations while still delivering high-quality results.
Quick Solutions for Quick Ads
Design Solutions
Over time, I became highly skilled at creating layouts that worked across different generations and could meet client expectations quickly. Working under such tight deadlines, I learned to read between the lines of client feedback, often anticipating their needs based on their websites, social media, and previous ads. In a fast-paced environment, there wasn’t always time to go back and forth for multiple rounds of revisions. I learned to prioritize efficiency while still respecting the client’s vision. If someone commented, “Why are there no clouds in the sky in this ad?” I would add puffy clouds and send it back. The key was learning when to explain my design choices in a way that resonated with the client and when to make adjustments based on their preferences and how to take their feedback with a grain of salt. This process helped me improve my ability to deliver designs that were both practical and visually appealing.
Reflecting on My Favorite Ads
REFLECTION
Though there were many ads I designed that I’ve since forgotten, there are a few that stand out as particularly memorable. These ads represent not only my growth as a designer but also the relationships I built with clients over time. I’ve included a selection of my favorites here, each one a reminder of the quick thinking, creativity, and adaptability that defined my time working in the newspaper industry.
