Views from an artist & illustrator in Sweden. Copyright Stefan Lindblad. My website: www.stefanlindblad.com
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Thursday, January 26, 2012
The Interview Series: Bob Friedman, CorelDRAW user & Beta Tester, runs his own family business, Pams Press Graphics in USA
My Interview series now continue with Bob Friedman, CorelDRAW user & Beta Tester, runs his own family business, Pams Press Graphics in PA, USA. I interview people I have come to know through Corel forums, and who are fellow beta testers of and fellow CorelDRAW Graphics Suite users. And some of us have met in real life.
Your Name: Bob Friedman
Website: http://pamspress.com
Style & type of work you produce?
Today my main focus is Internet marketing. The products produced are web sites, interactive software development, multi media presentations and various print and television media.
You like myself is a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover, and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
My company is/was in the television production/marketing/public relations business. I expanded to produce personalized promotional products and on demand souvenirs in amusement parks, boardwalks, fairs, etc. Using live video we placed people’s faces into famous art and/or silly pictures of body builders, etc. then created a custom souvenir like T-shirts, mugs, while they wait. I needed the technology to do this and based on talking to many people in the graphics industry I purchased both CorelDraw v6 and Photoshop v3.0. At that time I had no idea how to use this stuff and self trained by reading and playing. I am now a software junkie.
What year was it?
1995
Which Programs do you use, Corel and none-Corel programs?
Currently I use many software packages. CorelDraw, Photoshop, Director, Flash, Dreamweaver, Sony Vegas Pro, Boris FX, Lightroom, Fireworks to name a few.
Do you use any analog tools in conjuntion with your work?
Not any more. Used to use it for video editing but now are fully digital.
Which year was it you started your business, your work?
I started working for myself in 1974 after graduating college.
Would you recomend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
CorelDraw is my main preliminary design program and I would recommend it.
What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.
Originally I spent my first working 15 years in business law on the corporate level in NYC. At that point I had enough with all the mean and greedy stuff associated with this type of work so I walked away and never looked back. Based on experience and people I knew I opened a production operation (KO Productions) and produced both FFKA and ESPN Full Contact Karate for both prime time television in the domestic footprint and syndicated these shows to 144 foreign countries. I produced and taped live events from San Jose, Calif. to Amsterdam. My shows ran prime time from 1986 to 1992 I also served as chairman of the board of the FFKA (Full contact Karate Association) thus creating an International ranking association. As a fun hobby and stress reliever I have been in the martial arts for over 30 years.
In 1996 my focus went to the Internet.
What is that you like with your work?
EVERY THING. Work must be (and is for me) a fun adventure full of challenges. I also have been testing software for years and as a result met load of super nice folks from around the world. Testing allows me to learn the new stuff and contribute to making the tools better.
In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?
Keep it bug free and up to date with the latest innovations.
Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?
Yes, lots of coffee.
What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work, to think about. Is it discipline or and something else?
The most important thing is to stay on top of everything and provide your accounts with 100% personal service. Always listen, always learn and be prepared to work day and night. Stay away from negative people.
For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?
Having fun and winning. Investigate and learn all you can. I suggest you first get a job in that type of work so you learn hands on and make your elementary mistakes at the expense of others. Always keep you mind wide open and never stop learning. Most important do not let anyone discourage you.
Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?
Change has been constant and if you do not adjust and bend you will break. In my working career I have made so many changes and all for the good. You only live once so enjoy and explore, time is short.
Your Name: Bob Friedman
Website: http://pamspress.com
Style & type of work you produce?
Today my main focus is Internet marketing. The products produced are web sites, interactive software development, multi media presentations and various print and television media.
You like myself is a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover, and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
My company is/was in the television production/marketing/public relations business. I expanded to produce personalized promotional products and on demand souvenirs in amusement parks, boardwalks, fairs, etc. Using live video we placed people’s faces into famous art and/or silly pictures of body builders, etc. then created a custom souvenir like T-shirts, mugs, while they wait. I needed the technology to do this and based on talking to many people in the graphics industry I purchased both CorelDraw v6 and Photoshop v3.0. At that time I had no idea how to use this stuff and self trained by reading and playing. I am now a software junkie.
What year was it?
1995
Which Programs do you use, Corel and none-Corel programs?
Currently I use many software packages. CorelDraw, Photoshop, Director, Flash, Dreamweaver, Sony Vegas Pro, Boris FX, Lightroom, Fireworks to name a few.
Do you use any analog tools in conjuntion with your work?
Not any more. Used to use it for video editing but now are fully digital.
Which year was it you started your business, your work?
I started working for myself in 1974 after graduating college.
Would you recomend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
CorelDraw is my main preliminary design program and I would recommend it.
What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.
Originally I spent my first working 15 years in business law on the corporate level in NYC. At that point I had enough with all the mean and greedy stuff associated with this type of work so I walked away and never looked back. Based on experience and people I knew I opened a production operation (KO Productions) and produced both FFKA and ESPN Full Contact Karate for both prime time television in the domestic footprint and syndicated these shows to 144 foreign countries. I produced and taped live events from San Jose, Calif. to Amsterdam. My shows ran prime time from 1986 to 1992 I also served as chairman of the board of the FFKA (Full contact Karate Association) thus creating an International ranking association. As a fun hobby and stress reliever I have been in the martial arts for over 30 years.
In 1996 my focus went to the Internet.
What is that you like with your work?
EVERY THING. Work must be (and is for me) a fun adventure full of challenges. I also have been testing software for years and as a result met load of super nice folks from around the world. Testing allows me to learn the new stuff and contribute to making the tools better.
In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?
Keep it bug free and up to date with the latest innovations.
Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?
Yes, lots of coffee.
What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work, to think about. Is it discipline or and something else?
The most important thing is to stay on top of everything and provide your accounts with 100% personal service. Always listen, always learn and be prepared to work day and night. Stay away from negative people.
For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?
Having fun and winning. Investigate and learn all you can. I suggest you first get a job in that type of work so you learn hands on and make your elementary mistakes at the expense of others. Always keep you mind wide open and never stop learning. Most important do not let anyone discourage you.
Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?
Change has been constant and if you do not adjust and bend you will break. In my working career I have made so many changes and all for the good. You only live once so enjoy and explore, time is short.
Thank you Bob, a true pleasure as always to talk with you.
Stefan Lindblad
January 2012
January 2012
Copyright Bob Friedman & Stefan Lindblad
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
The Interview Series: Hywel Harris, CorelDRAW user & Beta Tester, runs his own company, Lady Bay Art Glass, with partner Michelene Harris, in Nottingham, England
My Interview series now continue with Hywel Harris. Hywel runs his own company, Lady Bay Art Glass, with partner Michelene Harris, in Nottingham, England. I interview people I have come to know through Corel forums, and who are fellow beta testers of and fellow CorelDRAW Graphics Suite users. And some of us have met in real life.
Your Name:
Your Name:
Hywel Harris
Website:
www.ladybayartglass.co.uk
Style & type of work you produce?
We design and make traditional stained glass leaded lights for doors and windows. We specialise in recreating designs for period houses from the Victorian era through to the Second World War.
Click to view Large image
You like myself is a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover, and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
Before I set up my company, where I worked previously, I was able to try out a number of drawing apps including Freehand, Harvard Graphics, Illustrator, and a few others. It was very obvious to me at the time that Draw was much better suited to the semi-technical type illustrations that I needed.
What year was it?
1993
Click to view Large image
Would you recomend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
Yes I would. I find it very easy to get along with for my sort of work. It is very precise and easy to be so. For me the ability to have many levels of guidelines for setting out a design is unsurpassed, and quick and easy to setup as well. Other tools like clones are invaluable when doing a drawing that has symmetry. Other apps are much more time consuming, both because they don't have the tools or they make them difficult to use. CorelDraw is especially good at allowing the user to customise the UI so that tools are only a click away.
I have always had an interest in old houses and have done a lot of work restoring ours. One aspect of English period building from about 1880 to 1940 was that a huge amount of decorative glass work was incorporated into the fabric of even the most modest of houses. When I was made redundant in 1993 (I used to be a mining engineer) I could see that there was no one who specialised in domestic period glass design, and in our area there are thousands of houses that have or had decorative glass when they were built. Others were able to do repairs, design ecclesiastical stained glass, but no one had a big portfolio of domestic designs. I set about photographing all the original examples for miles around and from that developed an eye for period detail and layout.
Coffee. Tea in the afternoon.
Thank you Hywel, a pure pleasure to have you in the interview series.
Really nice to hear from someone who uses CorelDRAW for work on glass. Shows the broad user base no doubt.
Website:
www.ladybayartglass.co.uk
Style & type of work you produce?
We design and make traditional stained glass leaded lights for doors and windows. We specialise in recreating designs for period houses from the Victorian era through to the Second World War.
Click to view Large image
You like myself is a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover, and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
Before I set up my company, where I worked previously, I was able to try out a number of drawing apps including Freehand, Harvard Graphics, Illustrator, and a few others. It was very obvious to me at the time that Draw was much better suited to the semi-technical type illustrations that I needed.
What year was it?
1992/3
Which Programs do you use, Corel and none-Corel programs?
I use Photoshop, ThumbsPlus, Dreamweaver (I built and manage my own website), Open Office,
Do you use any analog tools in conjuntion with your work?
Yes loads, hammers (very analogue !) glass cutters, grinders, you get the idea...
Which year was it you started your business, your work?
Which Programs do you use, Corel and none-Corel programs?
I use Photoshop, ThumbsPlus, Dreamweaver (I built and manage my own website), Open Office,
Do you use any analog tools in conjuntion with your work?
Yes loads, hammers (very analogue !) glass cutters, grinders, you get the idea...
Which year was it you started your business, your work?
1993
Click to view Large image
Would you recomend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
Yes I would. I find it very easy to get along with for my sort of work. It is very precise and easy to be so. For me the ability to have many levels of guidelines for setting out a design is unsurpassed, and quick and easy to setup as well. Other tools like clones are invaluable when doing a drawing that has symmetry. Other apps are much more time consuming, both because they don't have the tools or they make them difficult to use. CorelDraw is especially good at allowing the user to customise the UI so that tools are only a click away.
What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.
I have always had an interest in old houses and have done a lot of work restoring ours. One aspect of English period building from about 1880 to 1940 was that a huge amount of decorative glass work was incorporated into the fabric of even the most modest of houses. When I was made redundant in 1993 (I used to be a mining engineer) I could see that there was no one who specialised in domestic period glass design, and in our area there are thousands of houses that have or had decorative glass when they were built. Others were able to do repairs, design ecclesiastical stained glass, but no one had a big portfolio of domestic designs. I set about photographing all the original examples for miles around and from that developed an eye for period detail and layout.
What is that you like with your work?
Creating something that will give pleasure for many decades to come.
In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?
In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?
For all designers who create lineart drawings as the starting point for artwork, the route to applying colour is awkward. Other apps have developed ways round this, albeit slightly clumsily, but I think the biggest single leap in functionality would be an automatic and dynamic CCCFER. (An acronym coined by artist K N Pepper a few years ago, Create Closed Curves From Enclosed Regions). In essence a tool that allows colour to be applied the the spaces between open lines or curves.
Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?
Coffee. Tea in the afternoon.
What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work, to think about. Is it discipline or and something else?
Don't neglect the work that doesn't bring in an income directly. Like keeping a website or portfolio up to date. Making time to go and get photographs of interesting old glass. Make time to look at what other artists and craftsmen are making. Making sure you have a full knowledge of all the material types that are available, ie glass colours and textures.
Click to view Large image
Click to view Large image
For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?
Ooh... difficult. Don't do it unless you really love it. You have to be prepared to work for very little when you start out and if you don't love what you do it will turn into a chore.
Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?
The construction has and always will be the same traditional process, every glass piece has to be cut by hand and assembled into a lead lattice, soldered, cemented and cleaned. Modern technology has little impact on this. The ability to create very accurate designs and print them in colour on a 36” paper roll has saved many hours of work.
When I started I was using an A3 pen plotter and sticking pieces of paper together but I now have two HP Designjets which are 15 years old but still going strong. The business side of things has changed little.
When I started I was using an A3 pen plotter and sticking pieces of paper together but I now have two HP Designjets which are 15 years old but still going strong. The business side of things has changed little.
Recessions seem to have little impact and this has given me confidence to take my son on as an apprentice. He has been learning the practical side until very recently when I gave him some design projects to work in with CorelDraw, an app he has never used before, though he is very computer savvy. Within a matter of days he has grasped the basics and is able do manual traces and create illustrations from scratch.
Thank you Hywel, a pure pleasure to have you in the interview series.
Really nice to hear from someone who uses CorelDRAW for work on glass. Shows the broad user base no doubt.
Stefan Lindblad
January 2012
Copyright Hywel Harris & Stefan Lindblad
The Interview Series: Jeff Harrison, CorelDRAW Graphics Suite user & Beta Tester from Canada, country of Corel
My Interview series now continues with Jeff Harrison who runs his own business "Macromonster", etcetera in Canada, country of Corel. I interview people I have come to know through Corel forums, and who are fellow beta testers of and fellow CorelDRAW Graphics Suite users. And some of us have met in real life.
Your Name: Jeff Harrison
Websites:
- http://macromonster.com
- http://coreldraw.com/media/g/jeff/default.aspx
- http://www.youtube.com/user/macromonster
What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work? Is it discipline or and something else?
Discipline is only required for the mundane components of running a business. The reason is that it's easy to get drawn into the fun parts such as the creative and experimental moments; those happen by themselves.
If someone isn't sales or profit oriented, getting into business may be an ideological or ethical battle for them. There's a toxic, leeching undertone developing across most developed nations that suggests capitalism is a tainted, exploitative concept in general.
However, when we look up and down our streets, practically all people - from all walks of life - earn a living by serving others, for a profit. Unfortunately, those who are successful in business are often envied today, as opposed to being admired.
Hopefully people are getting into a business because they see an opportunity to fill a need in the community, and that they enjoy the work. The money comes later. However, one does not need to wait months or years in order to turn a profit. The great thing about the flexibility of CorelDRAW and Photo-PAINT is that learning them is springboard to a variety of potential services they can sell, relatively quickly, and for a small capital investment.
For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?
Some people try to depend on their personalities or social connections to win customers, and that can work initially. However, consistent performance and measurable results are more effective in retaining clients over the long term.
Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Has the business changed in any way?
Actually, not too much. The biggest changes could be that the processing power of our PC's is enormously faster and more capable now. I not convinced that software has improved in an equivalent fashion.
The economy (primarily in the US and some Euro nations) is shaky at the moment due to uncertainty with taxation, regulations, and foreboding public debt. Some consumers have been tentative at parting with their dollars. They’ve become highly selective through product research and careful consideration. This sharpens the marketplace.
The good news? There are emerging nations on the globe which are doing very well with economic growth, excited to embrace the very system that allowed the G7 nations to prosper during the last 150 years.
Due to the internet, the globe has dramatically shrunk over the last decade. Friends and customers can be found across almost all borders. This means enormous opportunity for individuals who refuse to buy into "the sky is constantly falling" mindset. They ignore the naysayers and simply make things happen. They are the opposite of those who basically wait around for something miraculous to happen in their life, without a logical reason for it to take place.
Thomas Jefferson wrote: "there is a natural aristocracy among men. The grounds of this are virtue and talents."
I agree with that, since regardless of a person's ancestry, gender, or ANY identifiable factor, it's up to each of us to make the most of our own lives under the circumstances we live in. At age 18, each of us chooses to look into our futures with either enthusiasm - or fear.
Priorities and perception are easy to condense when anyone who reads this does a self-assessment. Do you have a computer, electricity, and plumbing? Most people alive don't, so you're already very successful! :-D
So as we sit down today, looking at CorelDRAW or Photo-PAINT... be thankful that they exist in any capacity. Take a moment to reflect on why they exist. If the globe is some kind of Petri dish, there's something special happening in one portion of it... individual freedom. In a relatively tiny sliver of time over the entire span of human existence, each of us can make our dreams come true based on talents, attitude and tenacity.
So, let’s all make something great with Corel Products today!
Your Name: Jeff Harrison
Websites:
- http://macromonster.com
- http://coreldraw.com/media/g/jeff/default.aspx
- http://www.youtube.com/user/macromonster
- http://jeff-harrison.unleash.com/
Style & type of work you produce?
CorelDRAW Macros, print pieces, signs, web sites, videos, 3D renderings
We are both users of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover, and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
I enjoyed the logical interface and functionality. When starting my business, I tried the demos for Quark Express and Pagemaker, popular programs at that time. Both seemed very sparse with features, and the price was mysteriously much higher for the both of them.
CorelDRAW seemed more sensible in every way. It felt very intuitive to use. Even if I didn't understand all the features yet, at least I could see that there were more available.
What year did you first see CorelDRAW?
I first saw CorelDRAW 3.0 in 1995. It was being used in a shop as the design software for a vinyl cutting operation.
Which year was it that you'd started your business?
1998.
Would you recommend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
Of course. :-)
What is that you like with your work?
I think many people that use CorelDRAW are often a combination no-nonsense business people who have creative leanings, specifically in a commercial capacity. CorelDRAW has helped me earn a reasonable living, and it's a pleasant environment to work within.
In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?
Many of the things I'd like to see as features are now macros that we create at http://macromonster.com
Corel made this possible by licensing VBA & VSTA from Microsoft. Before that, CorelScript was used for scripting, which is still used in Corel Photo-PAINT.
From Corel developers, I hope to see both speed and reliability when working with text and complex layouts. Fail-safe industrial dependability would be highly beneficial. That way, all levels of users can trust it to just work; all day... every day.
Beyond that, the easiest thing any software company can do is periodically check out the competitors and what they're including for features in their latest releases.
Many of Corel's competitors have borrowed/stolen ideas from CorelDRAW over the last 15 years. Corel should check out the top 5 competing products annually and develop equivalent features where necessary. Then add a couple new features no one else has ever seen before.
I hope Corel has a formidable policy to prevent industrial espionage. If they don't, then they need to develop some technology, ideas, and vision worth protecting through such a policy.
Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?
Coffee. But nothing very fancy like the exotic coffees you enjoy, Stefan. :-D
Haha, currently Jeff I am drinking Italien coffee roaster label Molinari, Espresso Oro. Not overly exotic - but its Italian! :-) , I dont like coffee with oddities such as vanilla and cardemum, but a coffee with a cardemum bun, Swedish Style, is a winner!
Style & type of work you produce?
CorelDRAW Macros, print pieces, signs, web sites, videos, 3D renderings
We are both users of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover, and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
I enjoyed the logical interface and functionality. When starting my business, I tried the demos for Quark Express and Pagemaker, popular programs at that time. Both seemed very sparse with features, and the price was mysteriously much higher for the both of them.
CorelDRAW seemed more sensible in every way. It felt very intuitive to use. Even if I didn't understand all the features yet, at least I could see that there were more available.
What year did you first see CorelDRAW?
I first saw CorelDRAW 3.0 in 1995. It was being used in a shop as the design software for a vinyl cutting operation.
Which year was it that you'd started your business?
1998.
Would you recommend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
Of course. :-)
What is that you like with your work?
I think many people that use CorelDRAW are often a combination no-nonsense business people who have creative leanings, specifically in a commercial capacity. CorelDRAW has helped me earn a reasonable living, and it's a pleasant environment to work within.
In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?
Many of the things I'd like to see as features are now macros that we create at http://macromonster.com
Corel made this possible by licensing VBA & VSTA from Microsoft. Before that, CorelScript was used for scripting, which is still used in Corel Photo-PAINT.
From Corel developers, I hope to see both speed and reliability when working with text and complex layouts. Fail-safe industrial dependability would be highly beneficial. That way, all levels of users can trust it to just work; all day... every day.
Beyond that, the easiest thing any software company can do is periodically check out the competitors and what they're including for features in their latest releases.
Many of Corel's competitors have borrowed/stolen ideas from CorelDRAW over the last 15 years. Corel should check out the top 5 competing products annually and develop equivalent features where necessary. Then add a couple new features no one else has ever seen before.
I hope Corel has a formidable policy to prevent industrial espionage. If they don't, then they need to develop some technology, ideas, and vision worth protecting through such a policy.
Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?
Coffee. But nothing very fancy like the exotic coffees you enjoy, Stefan. :-D
Haha, currently Jeff I am drinking Italien coffee roaster label Molinari, Espresso Oro. Not overly exotic - but its Italian! :-) , I dont like coffee with oddities such as vanilla and cardemum, but a coffee with a cardemum bun, Swedish Style, is a winner!
What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work? Is it discipline or and something else?
Discipline is only required for the mundane components of running a business. The reason is that it's easy to get drawn into the fun parts such as the creative and experimental moments; those happen by themselves.
If someone isn't sales or profit oriented, getting into business may be an ideological or ethical battle for them. There's a toxic, leeching undertone developing across most developed nations that suggests capitalism is a tainted, exploitative concept in general.
However, when we look up and down our streets, practically all people - from all walks of life - earn a living by serving others, for a profit. Unfortunately, those who are successful in business are often envied today, as opposed to being admired.
Hopefully people are getting into a business because they see an opportunity to fill a need in the community, and that they enjoy the work. The money comes later. However, one does not need to wait months or years in order to turn a profit. The great thing about the flexibility of CorelDRAW and Photo-PAINT is that learning them is springboard to a variety of potential services they can sell, relatively quickly, and for a small capital investment.
For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?
Some people try to depend on their personalities or social connections to win customers, and that can work initially. However, consistent performance and measurable results are more effective in retaining clients over the long term.
Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Has the business changed in any way?
Actually, not too much. The biggest changes could be that the processing power of our PC's is enormously faster and more capable now. I not convinced that software has improved in an equivalent fashion.
The economy (primarily in the US and some Euro nations) is shaky at the moment due to uncertainty with taxation, regulations, and foreboding public debt. Some consumers have been tentative at parting with their dollars. They’ve become highly selective through product research and careful consideration. This sharpens the marketplace.
The good news? There are emerging nations on the globe which are doing very well with economic growth, excited to embrace the very system that allowed the G7 nations to prosper during the last 150 years.
Due to the internet, the globe has dramatically shrunk over the last decade. Friends and customers can be found across almost all borders. This means enormous opportunity for individuals who refuse to buy into "the sky is constantly falling" mindset. They ignore the naysayers and simply make things happen. They are the opposite of those who basically wait around for something miraculous to happen in their life, without a logical reason for it to take place.
Thomas Jefferson wrote: "there is a natural aristocracy among men. The grounds of this are virtue and talents."
I agree with that, since regardless of a person's ancestry, gender, or ANY identifiable factor, it's up to each of us to make the most of our own lives under the circumstances we live in. At age 18, each of us chooses to look into our futures with either enthusiasm - or fear.
Priorities and perception are easy to condense when anyone who reads this does a self-assessment. Do you have a computer, electricity, and plumbing? Most people alive don't, so you're already very successful! :-D
So as we sit down today, looking at CorelDRAW or Photo-PAINT... be thankful that they exist in any capacity. Take a moment to reflect on why they exist. If the globe is some kind of Petri dish, there's something special happening in one portion of it... individual freedom. In a relatively tiny sliver of time over the entire span of human existence, each of us can make our dreams come true based on talents, attitude and tenacity.
So, let’s all make something great with Corel Products today!
Thank you Jeff!
Yes lets create something great today!
Yes lets create something great today!
Stefan lindblad
January 2012
January 2012
Copyright Jeff Harrison & Stefan Lindblad
The Interview Series: Silvio Win ( Silvio Gomes ) - in Santos, Brazil. CorelDRAW Graphics Suite user & Beta Tester
My Interview series now continues with Silvio Gomes who is also called Silvio Win, who runs his own business "Win Multimedia, Publicade e Artes Gráficas" in Santos, Brazil. I interview people I have come to know through Corel forums, and who are fellow beta testers of and fellow CorelDRAW Graphics Suite users. And some of us have met in real life.
Your Name:
Silvio Gomes (Silvio Win)
Website:
http://www.winmultimidia.com.br
Style & type of work you produce?
Graphic arts in general, such as creating and developing brochures, folders, small newspapers for business information, creation of logos, banners, packaging, ads for newspapers and magazines, etc.
I worked as art director at advertising agencies. Once day I was visited by a representative of an outsourced Graphics Bureau that showed me the advantages of producing eletronic arts. That was the day I met CorelDRAW 3. Since then I was not calmed until buy my first PC and get into "this marvel of modern technology." Gradually, by myself, I learned how to work with "the thing" and never stopped.
What year was it?
I do not remember the exact year, but was in the early 90'.
Which Programs do you use, Corel and none-Corel programs?
The main tool is the CorelDRAW Graphics Suite, but also Adobe Photoshop C5 (although in most cases I prefer Photoshop 6 – It is "lighter" in addition to being faster than the latest versions, and addresses the needs of the most common tasks).
Do you use any analogue tools in conjunction with your work?
I miss using pencil, eraser, pens, paintbrush, ruler, square...
Because the habit of the mouse, my hand movements became “heavy and hard”. When I need to draw by hand, to scan an image and finishing using softwares, is that I realize how technology can destroy the ability of artists and the naturalness of their work.
Which year was it you started your business, your work?
I started as a designer in a graphics printing company, in 1976. In 1980 I started working in advertising agencies, when I became acquainted with others medias. I was editor of advertisements, layoutman, created and directed some advertising films for TV and radio spots. In recent years I have devoted myself to working as a freelance in a home office (Soho), and two years ago I manage the marketing area for a business automation company.
Would you recommend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
Absolutely. I have not been introduced to any other software that can solve my tasks so efficiently and quickly as CorelDRAW. I'm a big fan of the Suite and some friends, in jest, usually say that I “breathe CorelDRAW all day long”.
What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.
Since I was a child, all kinds of drawing and painting drew my special attention. I needed to understand how "that thing" could be done. As a teenager I worked as a clerk in some offices, but whenever I faced a pencil and a blank sheet of paper, there I was drafting "my arts". The few I know today is the result of my willingness and interest by the profession, which I learned by myself over the years. And I hope to learn much more...
What is that you like with your work?
I like the process of creation and the task of doing itself. I am delighted at this stage, especially when meeting untried solutions. But, so incredible as it may sound, I do not like any of my works when they are already done. The feeling is that I could have made them better. The day I say to myself "here is my masterpiece", it is time to be retired.
In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?
Like any software CorelDRAW Suite is not perfect either. The resources that the Suite offers are enough to develop excellent works. I particularly prefer that existing resources should be improved and more stable instead new tools. There must be a limit. From a practical standpoint, nowadays people "need not be an artist" to produce an almost professional art. Simply having good sense of layout organization and harmonization of contents, softwares can solve "the hardest tasks."
Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?
As I am a typical Brazilian, answer to this question is easy: coffee all day long! Tea just for summer, very cold, with ice cubes in the glass and some drops of lemon juice.
What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work, to think about. Is it discipline or and something else?
For all professional business, and for practical life, discipline is essential. I remember the first day when I started working at home. I called my family and said: "You see me here but I'm not at home. I'm at the office..."
The comforts of home can be both a great ally or an enemy of your business. To differentiate when you are "at home" and when you are "at office" is crucial. Luckily, my family respects and understands the my different moments of the day.
For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?
First of all, make sure if that is even the profession they want to adopt. Try any profession only for its eventual "glamour" is not recommended. Sometimes I thought I should be an airplane pilot because it is a great profession. Luck of the passengers, I have any talent for it.
Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?
Yes. I'm 59 years old and when I started, 36 years ago, the jobs I do today were more difficult and consuming longer time to be completed. The advent of computers technology, no doubt, was a great jump in this area of business, but is killing romanticism and naturalness of the graphic artists.
Silvio Gomes (Silvio Win)
Website:
http://www.winmultimidia.com.br
Style & type of work you produce?
Graphic arts in general, such as creating and developing brochures, folders, small newspapers for business information, creation of logos, banners, packaging, ads for newspapers and magazines, etc.
I worked as art director at advertising agencies. Once day I was visited by a representative of an outsourced Graphics Bureau that showed me the advantages of producing eletronic arts. That was the day I met CorelDRAW 3. Since then I was not calmed until buy my first PC and get into "this marvel of modern technology." Gradually, by myself, I learned how to work with "the thing" and never stopped.
What year was it?
I do not remember the exact year, but was in the early 90'.
Which Programs do you use, Corel and none-Corel programs?
The main tool is the CorelDRAW Graphics Suite, but also Adobe Photoshop C5 (although in most cases I prefer Photoshop 6 – It is "lighter" in addition to being faster than the latest versions, and addresses the needs of the most common tasks).
Do you use any analogue tools in conjunction with your work?
I miss using pencil, eraser, pens, paintbrush, ruler, square...
Because the habit of the mouse, my hand movements became “heavy and hard”. When I need to draw by hand, to scan an image and finishing using softwares, is that I realize how technology can destroy the ability of artists and the naturalness of their work.
Which year was it you started your business, your work?
I started as a designer in a graphics printing company, in 1976. In 1980 I started working in advertising agencies, when I became acquainted with others medias. I was editor of advertisements, layoutman, created and directed some advertising films for TV and radio spots. In recent years I have devoted myself to working as a freelance in a home office (Soho), and two years ago I manage the marketing area for a business automation company.
Would you recommend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
Absolutely. I have not been introduced to any other software that can solve my tasks so efficiently and quickly as CorelDRAW. I'm a big fan of the Suite and some friends, in jest, usually say that I “breathe CorelDRAW all day long”.
What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.
Since I was a child, all kinds of drawing and painting drew my special attention. I needed to understand how "that thing" could be done. As a teenager I worked as a clerk in some offices, but whenever I faced a pencil and a blank sheet of paper, there I was drafting "my arts". The few I know today is the result of my willingness and interest by the profession, which I learned by myself over the years. And I hope to learn much more...
What is that you like with your work?
I like the process of creation and the task of doing itself. I am delighted at this stage, especially when meeting untried solutions. But, so incredible as it may sound, I do not like any of my works when they are already done. The feeling is that I could have made them better. The day I say to myself "here is my masterpiece", it is time to be retired.
In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?
Like any software CorelDRAW Suite is not perfect either. The resources that the Suite offers are enough to develop excellent works. I particularly prefer that existing resources should be improved and more stable instead new tools. There must be a limit. From a practical standpoint, nowadays people "need not be an artist" to produce an almost professional art. Simply having good sense of layout organization and harmonization of contents, softwares can solve "the hardest tasks."
Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?
As I am a typical Brazilian, answer to this question is easy: coffee all day long! Tea just for summer, very cold, with ice cubes in the glass and some drops of lemon juice.
What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work, to think about. Is it discipline or and something else?
For all professional business, and for practical life, discipline is essential. I remember the first day when I started working at home. I called my family and said: "You see me here but I'm not at home. I'm at the office..."
The comforts of home can be both a great ally or an enemy of your business. To differentiate when you are "at home" and when you are "at office" is crucial. Luckily, my family respects and understands the my different moments of the day.
For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?
First of all, make sure if that is even the profession they want to adopt. Try any profession only for its eventual "glamour" is not recommended. Sometimes I thought I should be an airplane pilot because it is a great profession. Luck of the passengers, I have any talent for it.
Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?
Yes. I'm 59 years old and when I started, 36 years ago, the jobs I do today were more difficult and consuming longer time to be completed. The advent of computers technology, no doubt, was a great jump in this area of business, but is killing romanticism and naturalness of the graphic artists.
Thank you Silvio, as always a pleasure talking wiht you!
Stefan Lindblad
January 2012
Copyright Silvio Gomes & Stefan Lindblad
January 2012
Copyright Silvio Gomes & Stefan Lindblad
Friday, January 20, 2012
SOPA and respecting all people
Allthough I as an artist and illustrator like to be respected by those who use my images unlawfully. And still need to pay my rent, eat and simply live buy earning a living on my work, as illustrator, graphic designer and artist. There has to be an end to madness.
SOPA, the bill american interest groups & companies and some politicians try to enforce can only damage more than it help, well thats my gut feeling anyway. And we certainly have our share of these in Sweden, Europe too. Its not only happening in America.
I am myself a member of the Association f Swedish Illustrators & Graphic Designers “Svenska Tecknare.”
But…
If I runned a forum for illustrators who used it as discussion forum (which I dont I may add) about illustration, and one or more illustrators on the forum linked to a movie, and myself and others didnt know it was an illegal link, or I just missed the link being attached in the forum in a post and thread among maybe thousands of topics, then I running the forum could be charged for supplying illegal use of intellectual property.
Thats just insane,
Yes there will always be “collectors”, who simply cant live without collecting movies and music to their computer and harddrives. Sitting with 300 000 movies they will never see or something like that, simply because – and maybe feel the philosophical need to share it all to everyone on this planet and feeling empowered by it.
But…
Personally I still like to go to the video store with my girlfriend, look at covers for a movie to rent, buy some candy. Be among other human beings. Going in after work and feel the tingeling feeling of watching the movie. To me its more fun than sitting infront of my computer screen wathing torrent files dropping in on my server, and then find a movie where a russian guy have made and added to his rip of the movie his voice as a voice over to an american action movie. Which destroys the movie but give me a minute of giggle.
There will always be those who copy unlawfully because they dont like to sit and do their homework or simply because they dont care, but thats one thing, it will always excist and have alwaysed excisted. Its nothing new under the sun.
Charge those who do wrong, not those who dont know. Teach kids at schools because the grown ups are to grown up to change their ways.
Respect copyright, dont just throw blame games on big corps when even small creators are effected as well. Learn to respect and live on.
But…
Dont come throwing stupid comments about a digital copy is a copy and should be free to use because its a digitall copy. Thats just bollocks.
Grow up everyone and live a good life and help someone who needs help instead of going on about importance of sharing without even having asked beforehand if its okey or not.
Give respect to creators and dont be an ass. Enjoy life.
Stefan Lindblad
Thursday, January 19, 2012
The Interview Series: Alan drury at Alan Drury Signwriting in England. Beta tester & CorelDRAW Graphics Suite user.
My Interview series now continues with Alan Drury who runs his own business "Alan Drury Signwriting" in LIttle Chesterford, Essex, England. I
interview people I have come to know through Corel forums, and who are
fellow beta testers of and fellow CorelDRAW Graphics Suite users. And
some of us have met in real life.
Your Name:
Alan Drury
Website:
www.adsignwriting.co.uk
Style & type of work you produce?
Mainly vinyl lettering for vehicles and signs, large format is output by others from my Corel Draw generated files - same applies to litho print I supply. Letterheads/Compliment slips/Cards and leaflets are printed by various tradr printers from my files
You like myself is a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover , and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
Draw was demonstrated to me by the supplier of my sign software, they both integrated well and now Draw is the only one I use for putting together artwork for print.
What year was it?
Early nineties
Which Programs do you use, Corel and none-Corel programs?
Corel Draw, Corel PhotoPaint, Signlab, Photozoom, WYSIWYG Webbuilder, Pstill
Do you use any analog tools in conjuntion with your work?
No
Which year was it you started your business, your work?
Left school in 1974 and started work as traditional signwriter, self employed but sub contracting in1979, on my own 1980 ish
Would you recomend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
Yes, absolutely for the type of work I do I wouldn't want to be without it.
What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.
I saw a van being signwritten (by hand) when I was about 11 years old and I was fascinated by it, from that day on that's what I wanted to do, computers give me the same interest
What is that you like with your work?
The variety, I even enjoy sorting problem files which others send me
In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?
Speaking with my signmakers' hat on I would like to see more vector tools in general and things like extrude made more plotter friendly
Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning? Coffee, normally instant (sorry Stefan)
Certainly discipline especially working from home (its very easy to be distracted and go for another coffee:) but also to provide a service to the customer with a good product at the right price.
For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?
As above, service, product. price. Keep tabs on cash flow and make sure suppliers are giving you the service you require.
Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?
My business has completely changed, I started working with only a paint brush, palette and mahl stick to rest my hand on, I could spend a couple of days in a workshop/barn signwriting a van, now everything is vinyl or and digital print and because of computers I now supply printed garments, business stationery, build simple websites and host them and I'm a registrar with Nominet here in the UK so I can supply .uk domain names directly. Core business is still vehicles and signs though.
Your Name:
Alan Drury
Website:
www.adsignwriting.co.uk
Style & type of work you produce?
Mainly vinyl lettering for vehicles and signs, large format is output by others from my Corel Draw generated files - same applies to litho print I supply. Letterheads/Compliment slips/Cards and leaflets are printed by various tradr printers from my files
You like myself is a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover , and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
Draw was demonstrated to me by the supplier of my sign software, they both integrated well and now Draw is the only one I use for putting together artwork for print.
What year was it?
Early nineties
Which Programs do you use, Corel and none-Corel programs?
Corel Draw, Corel PhotoPaint, Signlab, Photozoom, WYSIWYG Webbuilder, Pstill
Do you use any analog tools in conjuntion with your work?
No
Which year was it you started your business, your work?
Left school in 1974 and started work as traditional signwriter, self employed but sub contracting in1979, on my own 1980 ish
Would you recomend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
Yes, absolutely for the type of work I do I wouldn't want to be without it.
What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.
I saw a van being signwritten (by hand) when I was about 11 years old and I was fascinated by it, from that day on that's what I wanted to do, computers give me the same interest
What is that you like with your work?
The variety, I even enjoy sorting problem files which others send me
In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?
Speaking with my signmakers' hat on I would like to see more vector tools in general and things like extrude made more plotter friendly
Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning? Coffee, normally instant (sorry Stefan)
It´s BRUTAL Alan, but I kind of have to live with this revelation, I just gotta... Oh, man. But if I made a visit I would accept it :-) - or tea, after all you live in england. And I am a tea drinker as well.
What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work, to think about. Is it discipline or and something else?
What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work, to think about. Is it discipline or and something else?
Certainly discipline especially working from home (its very easy to be distracted and go for another coffee:) but also to provide a service to the customer with a good product at the right price.
For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?
As above, service, product. price. Keep tabs on cash flow and make sure suppliers are giving you the service you require.
Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?
My business has completely changed, I started working with only a paint brush, palette and mahl stick to rest my hand on, I could spend a couple of days in a workshop/barn signwriting a van, now everything is vinyl or and digital print and because of computers I now supply printed garments, business stationery, build simple websites and host them and I'm a registrar with Nominet here in the UK so I can supply .uk domain names directly. Core business is still vehicles and signs though.
Thanks Alan, as always nice to talk with you.
Stefan Lindblad
January 2012
January 2012
Copyright Alan Drury & Stefan Lindblad
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
The Interview Series: Myself Stefan Lindblad, Illustrator, Artist & Graphic Designer
My Interview series continues with my self while waiting for the new interviews to come in. And simply because I too is a Beta tester, and I liked to present myself as well. Why not! I interview people I have come to know through Corel forums, and who are fellow beta testers of and fellow CorelDRAW Graphics Suite users. And some of us have met in real life. This time its myself.
Your Name: Myself - Stefan Lindblad
Website: www.canvas.nu, as well as www.stefanlindblad.com, the two blogs.
Style & type of work you produce?
Many of my clients are book publishers, advertizing agency´s, magazines and companies in general. I work freelance as a self employed company.
I work with illustration in different styles, Graphic Design, layout of book covers and brochures etcetera and amongst many different image jobs, vectorizing logos. A lot of small and middle size companies contact me to create proper originals of different types of images they need as vectors, for example logos. Other times I make patter design rapports or clothing apparel patterns using CorelDRAW for clothing companies they used to send to factories for manufacturing their clothes. I could go on really. And it varies from year to year.
The most visible for most people I guess is my work for magazines and books. But I do a lot of different graphic design, layout and illustration work, have to pay the bills. And its fun with the variety. Never got it when illustrators keep on saying stick to your guns when that may mean to do only one single kind of work and style. Which is good if you get extremely famous, but most don't and they have to pay bills, and having fun at the same time. Honestly I would get bored to do only one style of work.
Being a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made me discover and choose to use CorelDRAW Graphic s Suite?
I started off trying to learn Photoshop 3.0 around 1995 or something like that. And got hold of a copy of Photoshop 5.0. Because there was a job I could apply for at a newspaper if I knew Photoshop. It was at the time I was getting more and more interested in digital media and in 1995 I just got to hear about the internet. I remember when I heard about the internet back in 1995. It was a former rather famous male Swedish fashion model Tomas S. He always had ideas on how I could make money as an artist when we met. One day in Stockholm on the street I asked him "Tomas what's up" and told me he was selling commercial to be viewed on computers via the internet. And he worked at that time at Icon Media Lab which was a HUGE internet company in Sweden when Stockholm even in American media was labelled the capital of dot com.
I didn't say anything to him, but remember how I thought "poor guy, commercial on the computer? Why would anyone like to watch a computer screen to watch commercial adds from the food store?
One year later in 1996 an American woman I met with her cousin asked me if I had an email address. I didn't, but fixed one and from there on I was basically hooked. In 1996 I played around and learnt as much as I could with Photoshop and Dreamweaver 1.0. I registered my own company in 1997. And then remembered I had asked a former co-worker if he knew of any computer graphics program to illustrate with. He said "CorelDRAW but it cost 30 000 kronor", approx. 3000 Euro´s.
I left the idea of getting it and continued struggling with Photoshop instead. Then in 1998 my girlfriend found a CorelDRAW Select edition 7.0 in a book store for 700 kronor, approx. 70 Euro on sale. I was stunned and bought it on the spot. Installed it and quickly upgraded to CorelDRAW G.Suite 10 (and of course it didnt cost 30 000 kronor...) and onwards. I got instantly hooked and loved it from the first minute. Photoshop 5.0 was horrible to work with text. And PHOTO-PAINT was already doing it way much better for text work. And of course CorelDRAW with all the vector graphics being popular I instantly worked with Both CorelDRAW and PHOTO-PAINT.
What year was it?
Between 1995 and 1998
Which Programs do I use, Corel and none-Corel programs?
I use CorelDRAW, PHOTO-PAINT, Wacom Intuos tablet, for basically most of my illustration and graphics work. Microsoft Expression Web 4.0 for all my website work, I used to use DreamWeaver but with Adobe buying Macromedia it just became so expensive so I looked elsewhere, considering I had used DW since version 1.0 it was a step for me, but Expression web is great to work with and very similar to Dreamweaver. It lacks in my view in regard to the FTP program in EW but then again, I like both Coffee Cup Free FTP and FileZilla so its fine. And then of course Open Office for Word and office work, part from my accounting program. Notepad ++ for PHP coding and I started recently with Corel Aftershot PRO, former Bibble PRO.
Do I use any analogue tools in conjunction with digital in my work?
Now I am an artist, illustrator graphic person born and bread. Its in my genes - so of course I never leave home without any of my pencils and markers and my sketchbook.
Which year was it I started my business?
I registered my company in 1997
Would I recommend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
Yes of course. Without hesitation. I use CorelDRAW and PHOTO-PAINT. Both are professional programs. Where Photoshop have passed PHOTO-PAINT in some areas in image editing, its equally good in my view when it comes to actually draw and Paint. And CorelDRAW is great. Remember I do ALL my graphic design, layout and vector work using it. There is never ever any work I have said I couldn't do since 1997. Anything that comes my way I have been able to handle without any direct issues.
Is there any big change in how and what I worked with when I first started out. Have the business changed in any way?
In my line of work its HUGE what have happen. Remember in 1995 that year internet basically came to everyone's knowledge. Cell, mobile phones as well and computers really got affordable. And computer programs made their entrance on a broad scale. It may seem for someone in their 20´s today as 20 years is a long time, but it isn't. When you get 40 you really see how quick a year passes. I surely started noticing it when I was 25 years old + 1 day. Its really staggering.
Your Name: Myself - Stefan Lindblad
Website: www.canvas.nu, as well as www.stefanlindblad.com, the two blogs.
Style & type of work you produce?
Many of my clients are book publishers, advertizing agency´s, magazines and companies in general. I work freelance as a self employed company.
I work with illustration in different styles, Graphic Design, layout of book covers and brochures etcetera and amongst many different image jobs, vectorizing logos. A lot of small and middle size companies contact me to create proper originals of different types of images they need as vectors, for example logos. Other times I make patter design rapports or clothing apparel patterns using CorelDRAW for clothing companies they used to send to factories for manufacturing their clothes. I could go on really. And it varies from year to year.
The most visible for most people I guess is my work for magazines and books. But I do a lot of different graphic design, layout and illustration work, have to pay the bills. And its fun with the variety. Never got it when illustrators keep on saying stick to your guns when that may mean to do only one single kind of work and style. Which is good if you get extremely famous, but most don't and they have to pay bills, and having fun at the same time. Honestly I would get bored to do only one style of work.
Being a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made me discover and choose to use CorelDRAW Graphic s Suite?
I started off trying to learn Photoshop 3.0 around 1995 or something like that. And got hold of a copy of Photoshop 5.0. Because there was a job I could apply for at a newspaper if I knew Photoshop. It was at the time I was getting more and more interested in digital media and in 1995 I just got to hear about the internet. I remember when I heard about the internet back in 1995. It was a former rather famous male Swedish fashion model Tomas S. He always had ideas on how I could make money as an artist when we met. One day in Stockholm on the street I asked him "Tomas what's up" and told me he was selling commercial to be viewed on computers via the internet. And he worked at that time at Icon Media Lab which was a HUGE internet company in Sweden when Stockholm even in American media was labelled the capital of dot com.
I didn't say anything to him, but remember how I thought "poor guy, commercial on the computer? Why would anyone like to watch a computer screen to watch commercial adds from the food store?
One year later in 1996 an American woman I met with her cousin asked me if I had an email address. I didn't, but fixed one and from there on I was basically hooked. In 1996 I played around and learnt as much as I could with Photoshop and Dreamweaver 1.0. I registered my own company in 1997. And then remembered I had asked a former co-worker if he knew of any computer graphics program to illustrate with. He said "CorelDRAW but it cost 30 000 kronor", approx. 3000 Euro´s.
I left the idea of getting it and continued struggling with Photoshop instead. Then in 1998 my girlfriend found a CorelDRAW Select edition 7.0 in a book store for 700 kronor, approx. 70 Euro on sale. I was stunned and bought it on the spot. Installed it and quickly upgraded to CorelDRAW G.Suite 10 (and of course it didnt cost 30 000 kronor...) and onwards. I got instantly hooked and loved it from the first minute. Photoshop 5.0 was horrible to work with text. And PHOTO-PAINT was already doing it way much better for text work. And of course CorelDRAW with all the vector graphics being popular I instantly worked with Both CorelDRAW and PHOTO-PAINT.
What year was it?
Between 1995 and 1998
Which Programs do I use, Corel and none-Corel programs?
I use CorelDRAW, PHOTO-PAINT, Wacom Intuos tablet, for basically most of my illustration and graphics work. Microsoft Expression Web 4.0 for all my website work, I used to use DreamWeaver but with Adobe buying Macromedia it just became so expensive so I looked elsewhere, considering I had used DW since version 1.0 it was a step for me, but Expression web is great to work with and very similar to Dreamweaver. It lacks in my view in regard to the FTP program in EW but then again, I like both Coffee Cup Free FTP and FileZilla so its fine. And then of course Open Office for Word and office work, part from my accounting program. Notepad ++ for PHP coding and I started recently with Corel Aftershot PRO, former Bibble PRO.
Do I use any analogue tools in conjunction with digital in my work?
Now I am an artist, illustrator graphic person born and bread. Its in my genes - so of course I never leave home without any of my pencils and markers and my sketchbook.
Which year was it I started my business?
I registered my company in 1997
Would I recommend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
Yes of course. Without hesitation. I use CorelDRAW and PHOTO-PAINT. Both are professional programs. Where Photoshop have passed PHOTO-PAINT in some areas in image editing, its equally good in my view when it comes to actually draw and Paint. And CorelDRAW is great. Remember I do ALL my graphic design, layout and vector work using it. There is never ever any work I have said I couldn't do since 1997. Anything that comes my way I have been able to handle without any direct issues.
Of course there is a transparency issue between Adobe Illustrator and CorelDRAW which is because transparency in both programs are built programming-wise different from each other. But generally nothing that hinders me in my work. Where Adobe Illustrator lets you create one-single page work, CorelDRAW let you great Multiple page layout work. To do Layout in Adobe illustrator, you have to leave the program entirely and move over to In Design - I stay put in CorelDRAW and do all my layout as well as vector graphic and illustration work.
All these programs are good programs, only they are set up differently and because Adobe are so big they never allow Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop users to open files and images form CorelDRAW and Photoshop,whilst the competition CorelDRAW and PHOTO-PAINT opens and import their files and images. That alone makes it easy for me to work with people who may work with Photoshop for example when I work with PHOTO-PAINT. Then yes Photoshop ahve a few features some like to use that are not there in PHOTO-PAINT but that goes the other way around as well.
All these programs are good programs, only they are set up differently and because Adobe are so big they never allow Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop users to open files and images form CorelDRAW and Photoshop,whilst the competition CorelDRAW and PHOTO-PAINT opens and import their files and images. That alone makes it easy for me to work with people who may work with Photoshop for example when I work with PHOTO-PAINT. Then yes Photoshop ahve a few features some like to use that are not there in PHOTO-PAINT but that goes the other way around as well.
I can seave to PSD, Photoshop files from withing PHOTO-PAINT, so there is no imment danger in working with clients who uses Photoshop.
And with Bibble PRO or Corel Aftershot PRO I can manage all my RAW, high res Tiffs or Jpegs just like any Adobe Lightroom user may do.
What, more importantly, made me begin working with the work I do today? After all I too could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.
I have worked with other types of work, like the most of us. Nothing strange in that. Never like a hairdresser though. But when I took the definite step to go all alone and start my company it was this line of work that matters. After all I decided to become an artist when I was thirteen years old and had my first solo exhibition when I was 21 years old. And prior to registering my company I had already started to freelance as an illustrator off an and on.
What is that I like with your work?
I love working with others, but I also like not having a boss leaning over my shoulder. Its the freedom to create I guess. But its also hard work to become your own boss. Its a lot of pressure and every month is a new blank canvas that has to be filled with money on the bank to pay your bills. Always those two sides of a coin.
In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?
There is always many things I like to see, one being perspective grids, full 48 bit on all features for image editing and on Object Lenses. And a few other things. Basically the same answer like in the interview in Digital Arts Magazine.
Do I drink coffee or tea in the morning?
Coffee. Grind my own beans and place my cappuccino cup in my espresso machine while trying to open my eyes, and just add a tad of milk in the cup and then brew the coffee. Later during the day I might make a proper Cappuccino.
What do I think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work, to think about. Is it discipline or and something else?
Go up in the morning and start to work, regardless if you work from home or at an office. Quickly take a shower, have breakfast, watch the morning news. Check emails and be disciplined. And when it is hard and everything feel down, do something inspiring. It can be to just take a coffee or lunch, but always work. Take a day to sit and reflect over where the business is going. Setting up new goals. And maybe try to learn new things. For example its very easy in my work to do what have always been done. Hence risk for fatigue and boredom. Read inspiring magazines in the arts & design. Draw and paint for fun. Maybe test a tutorial. but above all learn new and proper ways of doing things.
For example with CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X5 came a totally new Colour Management system. To me as an artist of both traditional media and digital media, its quite odd that people complain over colour management when they doesn't seem to have learn proper and correct ways of working with colour.
There is a reason for example why acrylic and oil paint labeled "studio" isn't "artist quality" if it is a professional brand. It really is. But I still see how many artists that are famous even seem to use the lesser quality at times. I don't get that.
Its like with acid free paper, there is reason to why I always only choose acid free paper to draw on.
For example when I paint large size acrylic or oil painting on canvas, and we talk above two meters and five meter and onwards in size, its very important to pick a canvas with longer fibres, because oil paint weighs a lot. And so on. Learn the craft and then go wild. Or simultaneously go wild and proper. That way you learn what's correct when you are wild and can quickly adjust when it really is needed. This rules applies for both traditional and digital media.
For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?
Learn your craft and your business. Contact and hire an accountant. And become a member of a proper organization in your field, go mingle and listen and learn from others. Do the ground work first and then have fun. When the tax man comes and like to see your papers and ask you to pay your taxes, you really don't like to not have money on the bank or paper not in order. You don't.
And look for new clients always. Never settle with one single or a few clients. They will come and go. Clients are not necessarily loyal. They are there to make business like you. Keep the current clients, treat them right, deliver on time and what you said you would and look for additional new clients. Broaden your horizon.
What, more importantly, made me begin working with the work I do today? After all I too could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.
I have worked with other types of work, like the most of us. Nothing strange in that. Never like a hairdresser though. But when I took the definite step to go all alone and start my company it was this line of work that matters. After all I decided to become an artist when I was thirteen years old and had my first solo exhibition when I was 21 years old. And prior to registering my company I had already started to freelance as an illustrator off an and on.
What is that I like with your work?
I love working with others, but I also like not having a boss leaning over my shoulder. Its the freedom to create I guess. But its also hard work to become your own boss. Its a lot of pressure and every month is a new blank canvas that has to be filled with money on the bank to pay your bills. Always those two sides of a coin.
In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?
There is always many things I like to see, one being perspective grids, full 48 bit on all features for image editing and on Object Lenses. And a few other things. Basically the same answer like in the interview in Digital Arts Magazine.
Do I drink coffee or tea in the morning?
Coffee. Grind my own beans and place my cappuccino cup in my espresso machine while trying to open my eyes, and just add a tad of milk in the cup and then brew the coffee. Later during the day I might make a proper Cappuccino.
What do I think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work, to think about. Is it discipline or and something else?
Go up in the morning and start to work, regardless if you work from home or at an office. Quickly take a shower, have breakfast, watch the morning news. Check emails and be disciplined. And when it is hard and everything feel down, do something inspiring. It can be to just take a coffee or lunch, but always work. Take a day to sit and reflect over where the business is going. Setting up new goals. And maybe try to learn new things. For example its very easy in my work to do what have always been done. Hence risk for fatigue and boredom. Read inspiring magazines in the arts & design. Draw and paint for fun. Maybe test a tutorial. but above all learn new and proper ways of doing things.
For example with CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X5 came a totally new Colour Management system. To me as an artist of both traditional media and digital media, its quite odd that people complain over colour management when they doesn't seem to have learn proper and correct ways of working with colour.
There is a reason for example why acrylic and oil paint labeled "studio" isn't "artist quality" if it is a professional brand. It really is. But I still see how many artists that are famous even seem to use the lesser quality at times. I don't get that.
Its like with acid free paper, there is reason to why I always only choose acid free paper to draw on.
For example when I paint large size acrylic or oil painting on canvas, and we talk above two meters and five meter and onwards in size, its very important to pick a canvas with longer fibres, because oil paint weighs a lot. And so on. Learn the craft and then go wild. Or simultaneously go wild and proper. That way you learn what's correct when you are wild and can quickly adjust when it really is needed. This rules applies for both traditional and digital media.
For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?
Learn your craft and your business. Contact and hire an accountant. And become a member of a proper organization in your field, go mingle and listen and learn from others. Do the ground work first and then have fun. When the tax man comes and like to see your papers and ask you to pay your taxes, you really don't like to not have money on the bank or paper not in order. You don't.
And look for new clients always. Never settle with one single or a few clients. They will come and go. Clients are not necessarily loyal. They are there to make business like you. Keep the current clients, treat them right, deliver on time and what you said you would and look for additional new clients. Broaden your horizon.
Is there any big change in how and what I worked with when I first started out. Have the business changed in any way?
In my line of work its HUGE what have happen. Remember in 1995 that year internet basically came to everyone's knowledge. Cell, mobile phones as well and computers really got affordable. And computer programs made their entrance on a broad scale. It may seem for someone in their 20´s today as 20 years is a long time, but it isn't. When you get 40 you really see how quick a year passes. I surely started noticing it when I was 25 years old + 1 day. Its really staggering.
To take an example, in 2007 my girlfriend and I when´t to Sedona, Arizona, USA, traveling around and I had to deliver work for a client just after the Christmas holidays. But I sat in Arizona, USA. On the other side of the atlantic ocean. I finished my work on my laptop and used my Wacom tablet and via the internet delivered the work on the day. That really wouldn't happen before.
Stefan Lindblad
January 2012.
Copyright Stefan Lindblad
Stefan Lindblad
January 2012.
Copyright Stefan Lindblad
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
The Interview series: Fu Tiepeng in China working as a teacher and using CorelDRAW
My Interview series continues with Fu Tiepeng in China who work as a teacher in Chinas second largest City. I interview people I have come to know through Corel forums, and who are fellow beta testers of and fellow CorelDRAW Graphics Suite users. And some of us have met in real life.
Your Name: Fu Tiepeng
Website: I dont have a website
Style & type of work you produce?
I work as a teacher at a secondary vocational school. Fushun no. 2. in Fushun city, Liaoning province.
You like myself is a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover, and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
I was 20 years old, and I was a freshman at the university. At that time I received a CD from a friend of mine containing several different computer program, and one of the programs was CorelDRAW 9.0, I instantly felt drawn to it and thought it was as a very interesting program, so I installed it on my computer.
What year was it?
1998
Which Programs do you use, Corel and none-Corel programs?
Adobe Photoshop. Photoshop CS5 have lots of new features of which some is missing in Corel Photo-Paint, such as smart fill. It really is a very useful tool, and which I use quite a lot.
Do you use any analog tools in conjunction with your work?
No, I dont feel the need for any analog tools in my work.
Which year was it you started your work?
I become a teacher in 2001. During 2009 and 2010 I runned my own small print shop.
Would you recomend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
Of course, absolutely.
What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.
We have a saying in chinese tradition which says: Don't stray far from home when your parents are there. I follow that principle. Maybe its my fate I become a teacher.
What is that you like with your work?
I love my work as a teacher. It get a lot of satisfaction when I see how my students improve. Furthermore as a teacher I have the posibilty to get time for my own research. To improve my self. But a teachers salery in China is not so high, especially if you are amale teacher in a second vocational school. Therefore my income is´nt so high.
In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?
There is a vector feature I like to have in CorelDRAW, but I have waited for ten years now, and it doesn’t seem to happen.
Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?
I prefer to drink tea, because tea is more clear, and tea have more aftertaste than coffee.
What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work. Is it discipline or something else?
We must first decide if we like to work as an employeed and make a career that way, or if we like to start our own company. Then if we meet difficulties along the way, we have to make proper adjustments in the right direction. In any case we can not simply give up when we get obstacles on the way, which is normal.
Again there is a chinese proverb I like: “With time and patience the leaf of the mulberry becomes satin”
Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?
No not particularily. I need my own life like everyone else I guess.
Thank you!
Website: I dont have a website
Style & type of work you produce?
I work as a teacher at a secondary vocational school. Fushun no. 2. in Fushun city, Liaoning province.
You like myself is a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover, and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
I was 20 years old, and I was a freshman at the university. At that time I received a CD from a friend of mine containing several different computer program, and one of the programs was CorelDRAW 9.0, I instantly felt drawn to it and thought it was as a very interesting program, so I installed it on my computer.
What year was it?
1998
Which Programs do you use, Corel and none-Corel programs?
Adobe Photoshop. Photoshop CS5 have lots of new features of which some is missing in Corel Photo-Paint, such as smart fill. It really is a very useful tool, and which I use quite a lot.
Do you use any analog tools in conjunction with your work?
No, I dont feel the need for any analog tools in my work.
Which year was it you started your work?
I become a teacher in 2001. During 2009 and 2010 I runned my own small print shop.
Would you recomend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
Of course, absolutely.
What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.
We have a saying in chinese tradition which says: Don't stray far from home when your parents are there. I follow that principle. Maybe its my fate I become a teacher.
What is that you like with your work?
I love my work as a teacher. It get a lot of satisfaction when I see how my students improve. Furthermore as a teacher I have the posibilty to get time for my own research. To improve my self. But a teachers salery in China is not so high, especially if you are amale teacher in a second vocational school. Therefore my income is´nt so high.
In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?
There is a vector feature I like to have in CorelDRAW, but I have waited for ten years now, and it doesn’t seem to happen.
Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?
I prefer to drink tea, because tea is more clear, and tea have more aftertaste than coffee.
What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work. Is it discipline or something else?
We must first decide if we like to work as an employeed and make a career that way, or if we like to start our own company. Then if we meet difficulties along the way, we have to make proper adjustments in the right direction. In any case we can not simply give up when we get obstacles on the way, which is normal.
Again there is a chinese proverb I like: “With time and patience the leaf of the mulberry becomes satin”
Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?
No not particularily. I need my own life like everyone else I guess.
Thank you!
And thank you Fu, it was a pleasure talking with you!
Stefan Lindblad
January 2012
January 2012
Copyright Fu Tiepeng and Stefan Lindblad
The Interview Series: Adrian Juman, Graphic Designer in Guyana, South America
My Interview series continues with Adrian Juman, Graphic Designer in Guyana, South America. Currently employed as a Creative Director. I interview people I have come to know through Corel forums, and who are fellow beta testers of and fellow CorelDRAW Graphics Suite users. And some of us have met in real life.
Your Name: Adrian Juman
Website: www.phoenixgfx.tk - Currently undergoing a redesign
Style & type of work you produce?
Well, at the moment I'm employed by one of the largest Commercial Printers here in Guyana. I head the Graphics & Prepress Department. The company focuses mainly on Print Media.
On the other side, I'm currently finalizing my business plan so I can make the move to a Freelance Designer. The reason for this is that I find myself working faster and producing better designs when I do freelance jobs than working for a company where there are a bunch of decision makers (even though I'm in charge of the Graphics Department)
QR design placed 3rd in the Advertising & Marketing Category of the 2011 Corel Int'l Design contest.
You like myself is a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover , and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
I started Graphic Design at a very young age and used software like Macromedia Freehand, Flash and Fireworks. It was an immediate love when I stumbled across an older CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 11 disk and saw that I have more freedom when designing and learning the in's and out's weren't that difficult.
What year was it?
I believe this was in 2005 :)
At the moment, I use CorelDRAW X5 and for quick raster edits Corel Photo-Paint X5. Other software I use include Photoshop CS5, Lightroom, Maya, Daz 3d and Sculptris.
Do you use any analogue tools in conjunction with your work?
Analogue Tools? Well apart from pencils and paper for sketching, I do most of my mockups using a Wacom Tablet. I also use A CTP to output plates for our Offset presses and several Digital Presses.
Photo of Stabroek (Downtown Georgetown), Guyana, where Adrian can be seen walking to work. Ariel view of Stabroek, Georgetown. The architecture was influenced by the Dutch who were the first to establish colonies before the British assumed control in the 18th Century.
Photo courtesy of Mike Charles, www.wildguyana.com
Which year was it you started your business, your work?
I've been designing artwork for clients at the age of about 11. In 2007, I was employed by a commercial printer. Now, hopefully soon, I will go fulltime as a Freelancer.
Would you recommend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
Definitely, It the best suite of software that anyone can use.
What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.
I studied Business Management in High School and College but always had a passion for Graphic Design. So the switch was one that I had to think about carefully. It's a move I would not regret.
What is that you like with your work?
Everything, I love creating and designing. It great to represent a client's thought through design. Using CorelDRAW Graphics Suite it's easy from the Concept of an Artwork to the final Prints. Also, I've had the privileged of working/learning from professionals like yourself and many others.
In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?
Yes, I would like to see development continue and blast the competition like Photoshop and Illustrator out of the race. As you know, I can't mention anything due to us signing a NDA with Corel
Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?
Sometimes I drink Coffee, but I prefer a nice cold Banks beer or Guinness as a beverage.
Yes, discipline is a must. Also you need to enjoy working with clients (some of them can really be a pain in the @$)... most importantly, LOVE WHAT YOU ARE DOING!
For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?
Planning is essential, look at the industry and how they can stand out. Maybe they have a special talent like painting that they can incorporate into their designs. It's important to work in the way they feel comfortable and not try to copy/fit into a trend.
Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?
Many things changed. Now it's easier to collaborate with other professionals online and via phone. With the advancement in technology and software development, everything became easier. Remember when we used a mouse instead of a Wacom? Or manually changing settings for exporting images for emails and the web?
Adrian says: "Here is a photo of a quick collage of the Side Panels of my computer (well I'm currently Airbrushing it into something else now) I'm a big Anime Fan and these panels show two of my favourite Series."
Website: www.phoenixgfx.tk - Currently undergoing a redesign
Style & type of work you produce?
Well, at the moment I'm employed by one of the largest Commercial Printers here in Guyana. I head the Graphics & Prepress Department. The company focuses mainly on Print Media.
On the other side, I'm currently finalizing my business plan so I can make the move to a Freelance Designer. The reason for this is that I find myself working faster and producing better designs when I do freelance jobs than working for a company where there are a bunch of decision makers (even though I'm in charge of the Graphics Department)
QR design placed 3rd in the Advertising & Marketing Category of the 2011 Corel Int'l Design contest.
You like myself is a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover , and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
I started Graphic Design at a very young age and used software like Macromedia Freehand, Flash and Fireworks. It was an immediate love when I stumbled across an older CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 11 disk and saw that I have more freedom when designing and learning the in's and out's weren't that difficult.
What year was it?
I believe this was in 2005 :)
Which Programs do you use, Corel and none-Corel programs?
At the moment, I use CorelDRAW X5 and for quick raster edits Corel Photo-Paint X5. Other software I use include Photoshop CS5, Lightroom, Maya, Daz 3d and Sculptris.
Do you use any analogue tools in conjunction with your work?
Analogue Tools? Well apart from pencils and paper for sketching, I do most of my mockups using a Wacom Tablet. I also use A CTP to output plates for our Offset presses and several Digital Presses.
Photo courtesy of Mike Charles, www.wildguyana.com
Which year was it you started your business, your work?
I've been designing artwork for clients at the age of about 11. In 2007, I was employed by a commercial printer. Now, hopefully soon, I will go fulltime as a Freelancer.
Would you recommend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
Definitely, It the best suite of software that anyone can use.
What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.
I studied Business Management in High School and College but always had a passion for Graphic Design. So the switch was one that I had to think about carefully. It's a move I would not regret.
What is that you like with your work?
Everything, I love creating and designing. It great to represent a client's thought through design. Using CorelDRAW Graphics Suite it's easy from the Concept of an Artwork to the final Prints. Also, I've had the privileged of working/learning from professionals like yourself and many others.
In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?
Yes, I would like to see development continue and blast the competition like Photoshop and Illustrator out of the race. As you know, I can't mention anything due to us signing a NDA with Corel
Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?
Sometimes I drink Coffee, but I prefer a nice cold Banks beer or Guinness as a beverage.
What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work, to think about. Is it discipline or and something else?
Yes, discipline is a must. Also you need to enjoy working with clients (some of them can really be a pain in the @$)... most importantly, LOVE WHAT YOU ARE DOING!
For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?
Planning is essential, look at the industry and how they can stand out. Maybe they have a special talent like painting that they can incorporate into their designs. It's important to work in the way they feel comfortable and not try to copy/fit into a trend.
Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?
Many things changed. Now it's easier to collaborate with other professionals online and via phone. With the advancement in technology and software development, everything became easier. Remember when we used a mouse instead of a Wacom? Or manually changing settings for exporting images for emails and the web?
Yes Adrian, I remember after I had bought my first Wacom Intuos 1, now using Intuos 3 looking for a 4. I bought it from my brothers company. I coulndt understand why the heck I even questioned buying it. That must be like 5-7 years ago. We have to thank the Japanese at Wacom gazillions of times. You know Wacom is pronounced "Wackom". Prolong the "a" and quick on the "ck".
Thank you Adrian for letting me interview you. A pleasure as always to talk with you.
Stefan Lindblad
January 2012
January 2012
Copyright Adrian Juman & Stefan Lindblad
Monday, January 16, 2012
The Interview Series: Jan Felber, who works with his own company as a Photograper in Germany
My Interview series continues with Jan Felber , who works with his own company Felber fotografie in Germany. I interview people I have come to know through Corel forums, and who are fellow beta testers of and fellow CorelDRAW Graphics Suite users. And some of us have met in real life.
Your Name: Jan Felber
Website: www.foto-chemnitz.de
Style & type of work you produce?
Modern and creative photos in the field of weddings, industrial, panoramamic, nude and a lot more. Always looking for the perfect motive (but so far I have not found it yet).
You like myself is a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover , and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
It was about 10 years ago. I asked my colleague for a photo-editing program. At that time I worked as an electronics technician. He said: "Yes, no problem". The next day he gave me a pirated copy of Corel Draw 9. That was the beginning.
In 2006 I started my business as a photographer and bought my first commercial version of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X3.
Which Programs do you use, Corel and none-Corel programs?
In my usual work flow I first edit my photos with Adobe Lightroom. I always shoot in RAW-format! After working in Lightroom I retouch the pictures in Corel PHOTO-PAINT. Unfortunately PHOTO-PAINT lacks important features for a photographer. Therefore I need a variety of different Plugins, or sometimes even GIMP. Especially for panoramic photos I use "Autopano Pro" an "Autopano Tour".
(Edit note by Stefan Lindblad for those who dont know about Photo-Paint: Photo-Paint is the image editing program included in the CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. For many years the sole contender to Photoshop. Allthough Photo-Paint does have a RAW lab, 48 bit/16 bit, its perfectly okey to work with RAW 48 bit using Corel Aftershot/Bibble PRO like an Adobe Lightroom user, and from there bring images into Corel Photo-Paint. In the same way Photoshop is also used for illustration & graphics so is Corel Photo-Paint.)
Would you recommend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
A few years ago: Yes.
Today I would probably not. Because there is no more serious development on Corel PHOTO-PAINT. Many people do not even know of the existence of Photo-Paint - they only know CorelDraw (I work very less with this vector editing software). Adobe Photoshop is the much more professional tool for a photographer. But on the other hand, CorelDraw Graphics Suite is less expensive, and in some areas even better than the "industrial standard". Its the best alternative to Adobe!
What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.
I started out as a electronic technician, education in it, and worked there fore some years as such. But it was boring and therefore I used the chance in 2006 to start my own business. I have learned everything autodidact in the photo-field. I turned my hobby into a profession!
What is that you like with your work?
Varied work! With each new job, a new challenge. Its not boring.
In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?
Development for Photo-Paint! Currently it looks like Corel want to bury Photo-Paint and replace it with Paint Shop Pro.
Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?
Yes (If possible, my morning starts at 11 am). A spoonful of instant coffee in a coup with 50% water, 50% milk and a little bit caramel syrup.
That sounds brutal to me! Jan, instant coffee cant be considered coffee even ;-) But I forgive you... My brother tried to convince me that instant coffee was the thing. I called him barbarian, any comments to that ;-)
Thank you for your forgiveness! Everyone knows that we Germans are brutal barbarians ;-)
Seriously, I use only the good Nescafe. And there are much more coffee flavours in the instant coffee - more than in yours - because they use very high temperatures and pressure to extract all the good things from the coffee beans while production. So believe me, your brother is right...
Haha, no Jan, my brother right? Scary thought...
What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work, to think about. Is it discipline or and something else?
The most important thing is motivation. If you work with fun, the rest comes by itself.
Jan Felber in action
For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?
One should have lot of patience. In the beginning it can be that you will not earn much money! A good website (advertising) is very important.
Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?
Initially I made every job I got. Now I specialize in business photography and can select the best job.
Thank you Jan!
You're welcome.
Stefan Lindblad, januari 2012
Copyright Jan Felber & Stefan Lindblad
Your Name: Jan Felber
Website: www.foto-chemnitz.de
Style & type of work you produce?
Modern and creative photos in the field of weddings, industrial, panoramamic, nude and a lot more. Always looking for the perfect motive (but so far I have not found it yet).
You like myself is a user of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. What was it that made you discover , and drew you to CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
It was about 10 years ago. I asked my colleague for a photo-editing program. At that time I worked as an electronics technician. He said: "Yes, no problem". The next day he gave me a pirated copy of Corel Draw 9. That was the beginning.
In 2006 I started my business as a photographer and bought my first commercial version of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X3.
Which Programs do you use, Corel and none-Corel programs?
In my usual work flow I first edit my photos with Adobe Lightroom. I always shoot in RAW-format! After working in Lightroom I retouch the pictures in Corel PHOTO-PAINT. Unfortunately PHOTO-PAINT lacks important features for a photographer. Therefore I need a variety of different Plugins, or sometimes even GIMP. Especially for panoramic photos I use "Autopano Pro" an "Autopano Tour".
(Edit note by Stefan Lindblad for those who dont know about Photo-Paint: Photo-Paint is the image editing program included in the CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. For many years the sole contender to Photoshop. Allthough Photo-Paint does have a RAW lab, 48 bit/16 bit, its perfectly okey to work with RAW 48 bit using Corel Aftershot/Bibble PRO like an Adobe Lightroom user, and from there bring images into Corel Photo-Paint. In the same way Photoshop is also used for illustration & graphics so is Corel Photo-Paint.)
Would you recommend CorelDRAW Graphics Suite?
A few years ago: Yes.
Today I would probably not. Because there is no more serious development on Corel PHOTO-PAINT. Many people do not even know of the existence of Photo-Paint - they only know CorelDraw (I work very less with this vector editing software). Adobe Photoshop is the much more professional tool for a photographer. But on the other hand, CorelDraw Graphics Suite is less expensive, and in some areas even better than the "industrial standard". Its the best alternative to Adobe!
What, more importantly, made you begin working with the work you do today? After all you could have made a career as a hairdresser or something in that line instead, like any other human being.
I started out as a electronic technician, education in it, and worked there fore some years as such. But it was boring and therefore I used the chance in 2006 to start my own business. I have learned everything autodidact in the photo-field. I turned my hobby into a profession!
What is that you like with your work?
Varied work! With each new job, a new challenge. Its not boring.
In an interview in the Digital Artist Magazine, who interviewed me a few years back, I was asked what I would like to see in future versions of CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. Is there anything you would like to see?
Development for Photo-Paint! Currently it looks like Corel want to bury Photo-Paint and replace it with Paint Shop Pro.
Do you drink coffee or tea in the morning?
Yes (If possible, my morning starts at 11 am). A spoonful of instant coffee in a coup with 50% water, 50% milk and a little bit caramel syrup.
That sounds brutal to me! Jan, instant coffee cant be considered coffee even ;-) But I forgive you... My brother tried to convince me that instant coffee was the thing. I called him barbarian, any comments to that ;-)
Thank you for your forgiveness! Everyone knows that we Germans are brutal barbarians ;-)
Seriously, I use only the good Nescafe. And there are much more coffee flavours in the instant coffee - more than in yours - because they use very high temperatures and pressure to extract all the good things from the coffee beans while production. So believe me, your brother is right...
Haha, no Jan, my brother right? Scary thought...
What do you think is important to think about running your own business or in your line of work, to think about. Is it discipline or and something else?
The most important thing is motivation. If you work with fun, the rest comes by itself.
For someone just starting out, what do you think they should think about?
One should have lot of patience. In the beginning it can be that you will not earn much money! A good website (advertising) is very important.
Is there any big change in how and what you worked with when you first started out. Have the business changed in any way?
Initially I made every job I got. Now I specialize in business photography and can select the best job.
Thank you Jan!
You're welcome.
Stefan Lindblad, januari 2012
Copyright Jan Felber & Stefan Lindblad
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