DESIGN.
13hrs
Creating Vector Illustrations
My main aim with Illustrator was to create clean-looking vector illustrations to import into after effects and animate different parts.
Main Learning Objectives
Adobe Illustrator
Skillshare
The skillshare series from before was also looked at to get some tips.
Youtube Tutorials
Youtube was used to get a good range of information on creating vector graphics.
Learning Strategy
Using Layers
To move a component in After Effects, it has to be on its own layer or it will move everything else with it. This meant once drawing the working person graphic, I opened up the single layer it was on and put each different part on a different layer, each with its own label.
Using Pen Tool
Although I had used the pen tool before, this involved more precise and consistent work. I was also using the anchor point tool to add and remove certain anchor points in lines.
Exporting
Exporting the document could be done the same as any other Illustrator document. However, it was important to have it on a one page document, and in the center so that everything could easily be lined up.
My Learning Journey
Moving Vector Art (basic animations)
1.
Aim: Create a working person graphic in Illustrator to be animated in After Effects afterwards
Learning Method: Skillshare & Youtube
Goal Achieved?
Yes. I created a good looking graphic suitable for the outcome of being animated in After Effects.
In the future, I will use more colours and complex building techniques.
Final Results
The final result was a simple but effective drawing of a man working. It was well organised in it's layers and the tutorials really helped make a more convincing final graphic.
Key Insights/findings
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Using layers and labels to separate parts and stay organised
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Manipulating individual points on a vector by using the anchor tool or clicking on individual points
Manipulating Text
After a number of physical leaf designs, I decided to try manipulating the text 'LEAF'. To do this I found you can right click any text and click 'create outlines'. It turns them into moveable vector graphics just like my drawings. This was really helpful to create the final logo.
Creating the Leaf Logo
To create the main project logo I used Illustrator. The name of the final app service is 'Leaf'. Below shows the process in developing the logo. I wanted to keep it as simple as possible to keep it in line with current app styles. It also needed to be used as an app logo, and sustainability index icon within the app.
Using Pathfinder Tools
After some research, I also found a way to join any shapes together into one. This was done using the pathfinder tool. It helped me join two letters together and create a simpler and more aesthetic look in the shape of a leaf.
Logo Design (extra)
1.5
Learning Sources
Goal Achieved?
Yes. The logo worked for both the app icon and within in the app as the sustainability score icon. This helped make it more memorable for users.
Final Results
The final logo was simple and conveyed the message it needed to. To view my brochure page of the Leaf project, click the logo below. (If you can't see the leaf logo below, please resize the browser window smaller. It usually needs to be made slightly smaller)
Key Insights/findings
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Create outlines text tool
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Pathfinder tool for joining and separating any vector graphics in Adobe Illustrator