Process

To start I will receive a project spec message through Basecamp (our online project management platform), with all text information as well as a link to the product images from the client or my project manager. 

I will go through the images given and decide which I will use for the ad, if there are enough options available. I take these into photoshop and either crop them down or edit them depending on the ad. Once I have my base image established (with room for text & logo elements in mind) I add the second layer of product title, subtext and logo elements. I will also occasionally have to build this same image in different dimensions for other website elements, such as banners or website headers. After getting feedback or edits, the image will be approved by the client’s social media person and posted on their website, various RC forums as well as their newsletter. 

On average I will receive 3 to 5 of these ads to complete daily, in addition to other projects, so I work within a limited timeframe to complete these ads as well as keeping the quality of them on par with what the client expects. Client prefers each ad to look different (background, type, etc.) due to high volume of output. I will usually reuse the same background/look for certain product brands to keep them uniform. They also prefer a grungy feel to their ads. A challenge I face is that sometimes photos provided are low res and I have to find a way to use them and still provide a compelling ad.

Motion graphic banners

Every few months a product will be selected to feature or boost on the site. For this product, in addition to the regular social posts, a banner will be created to host on the main site as well as on rented spaces on sites selling similar or related products. The Client prefers banners with motion to catch the eye of potential customers. Here is an example of a product ad selected and turned into a motion graphic banner, as well as a few other examples.