REFLUX: Design Magazine by refluxmagazine

ISSUE ONE

THINGS NOT TAUGHT WHILE STUDYING

<<RDSGN:20TWNTY>>

A Magazine by CreativeReflux

Tips For Freshers

Unboxing: Creativity

The Rockstar Designer List

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are designers and God designed our lives.â&#x20AC;?

NOT A PAID AD

Energize yourself with exercise and proper diet. Too much caffeine and sugar is not a good combo.

Go Energize. Not Chemicalize. 01

EDU

KIM

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m a fan of dark themes and Vivid Pink, but I bleed Purple and Gold. I still play basketball before I work, to keep my NBA dreams alive.

I work hard on strict schedules to provide a good read with this magazine. I manage the contents and is responsible for 98% of the grammar checking. A Psychology major and I practice my profession to the husband. I like shopping on weekends, until my favorite fashion store closed due to bankruptcy.

content editor

CONTENT CREATOR

creative designer

CREATIVE DESIGNER

My main role is to be creative as possible and to deliver positive vibes with a little touch of satirical remarks. I want this magazine to make every reader connected and get entertained in every content

To leave a legacy through the things we love to do.

vision

mission

To encourage creative people that will encourage the next generation of creatives.

This is created to all freshers and design enthusiasts, who love to learn from books but not a fan of heavy reading. There are no inconsiderate fellow interviewed in doing this issue.

foreword

When at the office, keep this copy away from your superiors, as some words might hurt their egos.

disclaimer

This is a self published magazine by Creative Reflux. We can’t control any unrighteous acts, but any form of unauthorized distribution of this copy is a disgraceful act. Thank You!

about

“Magazines are designed to make book reading easier.”

If you want someone to learn new things, share this to self-centered guys like your boss.

“I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13

declaration

Enjoy reading this privately, until you get pirated or start on your own.

Not A Paid Ad

Frontliners

Social Distancing

What’s Going On?

Deadlines

Investing: File Storage Device

About The Cover Create The New Normal

Negative Space

Kerning

Creative Block

Bad Design Experience

Tips For Freshers Getting Started As A Newbie

Unboxing The Gift Of Creativity

Do It Now

Choose Your Side

Real Learning Experience Things Not Taught While Studying

Fill Up The Space

Quality Time

The Checklist Be A Rockstar Designer

Socialize

Create Opportunities

Frequently Asked Questions

Acknowledgement

www.CreativeReflux.com

contents

publisher

ISSUE FEB ONE 2021

FRONTLINERS

THERE ARE HEROES STAYING AT WORK FOR US. STAY at HOME. DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t BE THE VILLAIN. The world witnessed new kinds of heroes. Salute to the frontliners all over the world. Some already risked their lives while others sacrificed their family time to fulfill their duties. They do not wear capes, but we witnessed their heroic acts. 04

SOCIAL DISTANCING

SOCIAL DISTANCING This is the new way of socializing, where you still need to distance yourself specially when outdoors. There may be closed roads, but we can still build bridges. Keep in mind that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the best time to create connections with our family and loved ones.

Photo by cottonbro from Pexels

#2020

#covid19

WHAT’S GOING ON?

GLOBAL PANDEMIC

Tough year for many, but not for people with the right thinking. You just need to focus and be intentional in learning new things. It’s the best time to be a designer.

Forget blaming who ordered the bat soup. Let’s think of ways we can make this world a better place. Inspiring other designers around the world is a good thing to do.

#kobe

#lockdown

LEAVE A LEGACY One man’s influence can help build a better generation. It’s our game. All we need to do is be focused and have the right mentality. Be legendary, because legends live forever! 06

TOTAL LOCKDOWN The world is locked in borders, but it will not limit us to reach out. Create better things to inspire people through good design. Do not get stuck at your home doing nothing.

#frontliners

MODERN HEROES

#equality

RACIAL INJUSTICE

We do love comic books, but the heroes we now have don’t need to wear capes or fly. Their identities are not secret anymore. You can also be a hero in your own way.

Yes, color plays a big part to develop a good society, but it is equality that will make the biggest difference. Time to add more color to your pallete, because it matters.

#wfh

#newnormal

WORK FROM HOME The love for doing work does not evolve around the office. Having a good laptop and a stable connection is an advantage. There’s no place like working at home.

NEW NORMAL No matter what’s happening now, it’s still the best time to learn and create something special. Learning is a continuous process which has no limitations. Enjoy! 07

DEADLINES

DEADLINES ARE SIMPLE REMINDERS THAT YOU'RE GETTING PAID SOON. GET THE JOB DONE.

Always keep your eyes on the prize, specially on the price. Be professional to deliver things with the highest quality. 08

INVESTING

INVEST ON A RELIABLE FILE STORAGE DEVICE

There would be times when the world is out of our control. We should not only depend on our creativity. We need a reliable file saving system to handle all our project files. Not only do we save our files, but have a backup for them. This is a very professional practice. You will also save your ears from hearing unsweet words from mad clients. 09

ABOUT THE COVER

It’s been a tough year, but there’s a lot of things to be thankful for. Some lost their beloved job and even worst, lost a loved one. Almost everyone rushed to supermarkets. There is panic buying. People are fighting for tissues, alcohols, and face masks. As much as possible, I don’t want to blame the bat soup lovers for this, but it’s wrong to trade wild animals and have them on your plate. To be home quarantined may not be good for millennials to experience, but it is for their own safety. Classes were suspended in all schools and universities, but there are more new ways to get educated these days. Hope that the first lesson they learn, is discipline. It’s hard to walk on streets as anyone can be a potential carrier. Have to apply social distancing and observe safety protocols. Movies, concerts, and even major sporting events need to be re-scheduled or cancelled. Shopping malls, gyms and even churches need to be closed. Everyone’s safety is the biggest priority. If there are no reasons to go out, better stay at home and do things that would be meaningful.

Salute to the modern heroes who choose to stay at work and save lives, even risking their own. It’s also hard for them to sacrifice being away from their families. Just don’t forget to appreciate their herioc deeds. God bless them! To avoid the risk of getting the virus, most of the eligible employees were allowed to work from home. It may not be a smooth adjustment for some, but it is a blessing, mostly for family oriented people. As a designer, it is the best time to be more creative. The opportunities are still out there, it just needs to be mined. Maximizing the use of online platforms is an advantage. The greatest thing that happened here was discovering that the best place to be, is with the people you love. Enjoy every moment and pray that this will end soon. This may be a bumpy ride, so buckle up because the Divine Designer is always in control!

It’s still a great year! You know why? Because you’re alive and full of hope while reading this. That’s enough to be grateful for. This is the best time to be a designer!

“If ever you do not know the plan, you can ask the designer upstairs.” *see illustration on page 23

NEGATIVE SPACE

Does not need to be white.

Also called, Negative Space. It does not literally mean an empty space with a white background. It is the distance between the graphic elements in a composition. It can be of any color, texture, pattern or even a background image. When used correctly, the message is seen clearly. A balanced composition can make any brand high-end, that people with money will buy. Try exploring in different colors and variations. It also looks good in dark mode. 13

KERNING

CREATIVE BLOCK

THERE WOULD BE MOMENTS, WHEN THINGS DON'T WORK. You’re doing your best and suddenly you feel blank. Nothing is taken away, just a part of the process. Take this usual thing like professionals do. No need to spend time to figure out what’s wrong. All you need is to take some time and unwind. Believe in yourself and let those juices start to flow. 15

“A BA DESIG C AN S LONG 16

“My Eyes Hurt!”

“It is not that bad but it is not good.”

“Who’s gonna clean the mess?”

“A Real Epic Failure.”

“Is that from a legit ad agency?”

“When will this end?”

“I give two stars.”

“I choose not to make a comment.”

BUT NOT FOREVER.

AD GN STAY GER.” “Very Graphic Image!!”

“They need a good freelance design guy.”

Design is everywhere. It’s the graphics infront of you, or your favorite gadget and the things you see on it. Almost everything we see and experience involves design. It’s nice to see great works and be inspired from it.

On the other hand, there were approved works that looked a bit rushed, underwhelming or poorly executed. They can make your eyes bleed. Please do not blame the designer, because there’s a guy on the higher position who did not make his job right. For the new generation, it is your role to continue making the world a better place for people who love what they see, feel and experience. Bring it on, Tiger!

“Someone’s gonna get fired for that crap.”

“Complete Disaster!”

“How much did they pay for that blunder.”

“Looks like a prank?”

TIPS FOR FRESHERS

GETTING STARTED This is the first step on how to become a good designer. These are not baby steps but As a fresher, you need to start with the basics. Remember that It Is not about the skillset that you have, It Is how you respond and deliver things accordingly.

Small projects are good. BUT be picky with it.

If you have an idea, make sure to sketch it.

desigN for a friend’s business and That’s A good exposure.

Do invest on a nice and handy sketchbook.

Develop a strong personality and be ready at all times.

Try to explore other worlds, besides your desk.

It may cost YOU a lot, but try to invest IN attending seminars. If not, there are good online vids to watch.

Ask a feedback and accept the bad criticisms.

YOU WILL NEVER SEE GOOD THINGS UNLESS YOU TRY.

Exercise the proper attitude and create a RIGHT mindset.

Be focused and keep your mind uncluttered.

Be aware that Things can be bumpy at start.

It Is Essential to learn Great things. DO Talk to EXPERIENCED design people.

The goal is to make a nice impression. It Is not about that nice suit, but the attitude you wear.

Design at all times. Sharpen your skillset.

BEGIN THE PROCESS. HAVE A CLEAR VISION. ENJOY THE JOURNEY!

AS THE FIRST HUMAN DESIGNER ON MARS...

WHAT WOULD YOU DO WITH 4,220 MILES OF ADVERTISING SPACE?

EARTH STILL HAVE BETTER CLIENTS.

UNBOXING

CREATIVITY GIFT TO SOM WHO CAN U We are all designed to have certain abilities. Some are naturally born with it, and most of us developed it from learning and dedication. Any gifted person may have the edge, but no one can limit a man’s desire to be the best version of himself. How we nourish these God-given abilities, result to greatness. Some are good in music and singing. Let’s admit it, we are not good in that area, specially in the field of Mathematics. But we have what they don’t. 20

Having the right tool is an advantage, but it does not determine that you are ahead of your colleagues. Everyone still needs to take the road where it all starts after unboxing their gifts. It may be quite a long process for some, but the result is worth a hundred times more than the heavenly 32-inch 6K XDR monitor. We are equipped with creativity, and it is up to us on how we can unbox it.

Y IS A MEONE UNBOX IT A popular brand can make you feel good, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s you that can make yourself better.

DO IT NOW

Do it now before some random guy says that he did it first. Be a pioneer of your life.

Avoid To Experience Regret. Be Intentional. 22

I F K N O W A S K

Y O U T H E T H E

D O

N O T

P U R P O S E , D E S I G N E R .

MARKETING COLLATERAL • BRANDING • PRINT DESIGN • MOTION GRAPHICS • WEB DESIGN

CHOOSE YOUR SIDE

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Different Process. Same Passion. Outstanding Results.

PROBLEM SOLVER

CREATIVE GENIUS

CARTOON • ILLUSTRATION • ANIMATION • GRAPHIC NOVEL • MOVIE POSTER • COMIC BOOK

GRAPHIC ARTIST

REAL LEARNING EXPERIENCE

No means of starting a debate, but it’s not all about books and the teacher’s manual.

Schools and universities are still the best system to learn the right things, but there are few life lessons that are not taught. One of them, is on how to face the real world. Yes, our good educators help us in getting ready, but there are lessons beyond the teacher’s manual. And the reality is that, most of the top in class are not ready on how to adapt to a new work environment.

We were taught early of ABC’s, but we learned typography. We discovered the shapes, and we are now mastering Line Art. We are guided how to color, and then we learned about hues, values and tones. The digital platforms made it easy for us, so let’s capitalize on that opportunity. We early learned the foundations, and we are to develop the process. Almost everyone can read, but not all can decipher the message. We can talk, and have the ability to communicate through our works. The things we learned are the foundations of what we are now. It would be senseless if there are no applications. Be intentional. We need to learn more beyond books, so we can be equipped on daily battles. We may learn from reading, but not all can unleash their passion. Our parents influenced us to draw, but not all of us are encouraged to explore our creativity. It is a blessing for a child to have supportive parents. Imagine bringing you to an institution where all you have to do is enjoy your passion. What a wonderful gift!

There are no guarantees of a good job after finishing school, but they did it for their love. And giving back in return, is the greatest way to appreciate the love they gave. Thanks to them because they first designed our future brightly. We are the new breed of designers in this digital age. Salute to our early heroes who set the standards. This is our time now. No one told us to be ready, but ourselves. Balancing personal life from work was not a subject, but it is a lesson required for fresh grads. There is a need to develop a good sleeping habit, and one of the keys is to master time management. Freshers need to blend with seasoned veterans on the floor, as they will not pamper you. There is a need to be friendly and sincere to build good working relationships.

Starting the steps to financial freedom is easy, for people with focus. But it would not be smooth, if you are poor in handling money matters and good financing. If you think that you excelled in school and had the best time as a student, then you aced it. But as designers, the journey starts but will not end at your desk. It is a continuous learning process. Consider yourself as a young learner. Stay focused and learn from the greats. Always take notes and apply it. This is an endless learning experience. Enjoy!

* The things that are NOT exactly taught are highlighted in #ffcb05.

If you want to be a good freelancer, you need to connect with the right people. How you market yourself will play a major role. The road to finding good projects and clients, is not a walk in the park especially for starters, unless you have a good portfolio. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; forget the desire to establish good impressions.

Being right doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean entitlement. Chill and be humble before you share your side. Be a good listener, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what a team player does.

FILL THE SPA 30

L UP E ACE “A good design doesn’t need to bleed to reach its objective.“

When working on a print or web design, how the space is used does play a big part in the entire composition. Consider space as a real estate. The size is the lot area and the design is the floor area. In order to build a good property, you need to balance both areas strategically. Same in the principles of design. There are good compositions in full bleed and some only needs less, which is more effective to viewers. As the designer, it’s your call on how you will use the space. The goal is to deliver what is needed. On your next project, consider everything first. If you are going for a bleed or minimal design?

The Minute Habit

Stretch, relax, and breathe well. Reward your body every 20 minutes. 32

QUALITY TIME

“Then people go out to their work, to their labor until evening.” Psalm 104:23

You are a certified hard worker and there is an assurance that you will reach your goals faster. Even the people around you will taste the fruits of your labor. But keep in mind that it is not all about working hard. They also need a chunk of your time. They will not ask you for that, but be sensitive to provide quality time. It’s not only when you are available, but it’s how you spend it as much as possible. Do not label yourself BUSY, you just need to know your priorities. Everything is part of the process. Make sure to spend enough quality time, then you will experience the true meaning of living. 33

THE CHECKLIST

E DESIGN R VoLUtION

How to BE A

t o LI F EAS BRING ID E

and

NL EASH y O UR CREAtIV E

CEs

MAINtAIN The PAsSION ABSoRB The BULLEtS know YOUR CLIENTs love wHaT YOU Do accepT FailuREs BE INtEn TIONAL BE EXPLoSIVE buT make THINGS SIMPLE -

tIME To

JUI

play The righT tune learn and upgrade LIStEN TO CRI TICS BE EXPERIMENtAL learn from others

SoCiaLiZ 36

BUILD THE RIGHT CONNECTIONS. It can be from any person who plays your favorite sport, and can be of any age, race and lifestyle. The goal is to connect with people who can make you feel comfortable in doing your thing outside your work. You need people and regular activities that will help you release all of that office stress. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just mingle with them on an occassional basis. Treasure them as friends. 37

CREATE OPPORTUNITIES

You’re here for bigger reasons, and fullfilling that purpose is not the only way to show your existence. You are designed to create a change.

fa en gr

It’s pointless if you’ll only be used if needed.

CREATE OPPORTUNITIES

p e’s u rp os

e is

e to d stroy its target,

create a different pu rpose.

VE HA

A BL

Be on a mission to let them see your existence. Serve your purpose specially when needed. Create things that are far from their expectations.

! Create things that will make people notice you, but don’t do it for anyone’s approval. The important thing is that, you made something special above your purpose. 38

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

GIVE ME AN EXPLANATION! Why do we EXPERIENCE A mental block after A GOOD AND PRODUCTIVE meeting?

---------------

Why do we forget the name of the RIGHT font TO BE USED IN A project?

---------------

Why DO THESE PEOPLE think that TO design is easy and WE CHARGE expensive?

Why do clients dislike the best WORK and approve the least?

---------------------------------------------------Why do we ALWAYS fail to remember our password? Why do we get late on important interviews and client meetings?

Why are there still ERRORS AND typos after a series of CHECKINGS?

--------------

Why does our MACHINE EXPERIENCE ISSUES when crunch time GETS NEAR?

--------------

---------------------------------------------------Why does our reliable U.P.S. keeps on failing on power FAILURES?

* There are more unexplained situations aside from a womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s monthly phenomenon. 39

ISSUE FEB ONE 2021

Published by:

14°40′N 120°58′E

SPECIAL THANKS

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Main Cover Zamurovic Envato Elements Pexels Cottonbro Ian Beckley Alessandro Oliverio Deva Darshan Rafael Guajardo Megan Forbes Eberhard Grossgasteiger

Far Eastern University

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