Sketches
Thumbnail sketching is a critical stage you shouldn't skip - it's about mining ideas quickly, not refining them. The goal is getting concepts from your head onto paper fast. Sketching is problem-solving tool that discovers clever motifs and improves ideas. Thumbnailing sketching not only helps work out specific concepts but often sparks additional ideas for other project needs.
Key Techniques
Use a pen initially, not pencil - The unforgiving nature prevents editing and keeps you moving forward quickly. Sketches don't need to be precise or perfect.
Draw small - Work on smaller paper that fits in a notepad. True "thumbnail" size keeps you focused on the big picture, not details.
Write out keywords - List associated words/themes to inspire different design directions.
Work in multiple sessions - Ideas percolate over time. Capture them whenever they surface, using whatever tool is handy.
Working with References
"Frankenstein" technique - Combine multiple stock photos in Photoshop (different head, legs, tail) to create ideal reference
Think in shapes - Simplify complex photos into basic contours and forms, eliminating unnecessary detail
It's about what NOT to include - Focus on essential elements that read as the subject
References
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