Published by Leonardo Calcagno
Who are you:
I am a graphic designer who is passionate and slightly obsessed with design. I create anything from branding, websites, posters, and other design mediums for clients.
Your current job:
Currently, I work as a freelance graphic designer.
In which city are you located?
I live near Vancouver, BC, Canada. It’s a really beautiful city with a rich culture and endless activities to
do.
A
word to define
what kind of worker you are:
Strategic
What
tools are essential to your life (app, software, etc..):
My laptop which I bought as a present to myself when I graduated from Uni. It was the best investment
!
What does y
our office space look like?
My office is basically wherever I take my laptop and sketchbook. Usually I work at my desk at home. But occasional I love to go to my local library which is designed by one of my favorite architects, Bing Thom, and work from there. I get a lot of work done when I’m there, and take
in
the
buildings
unique character.
What kind of music do you listen when you are working?
Honestly, anything and everything! I could be listening to The Clash one minute and Jay-Z the next—as long as there’s music playing, it keeps me motivated
.
Do you have a way to organize your day to maximize your work?
Usually I write out a daily schedule for the week. I jot down the tasks that I need to accomplish and set a certain
timeframe
. It really helped when I’m juggling multiple projects
.
What tips would you give to improve productivity?
Stick to your daily schedule. But always leave some time in the day to do something else other than work. You’ll drive yourself crazy without a little bit of down time
.
You’re better than your colleagues in:
I work freelance, so I guess one quality that distinguishes me from other designers is that I do a lot of creative and visual in-depth research. I’ve discovered a ton of references/inspiration over the years and have built a strong knowledge of design.
What is the best advice anyone has given you?
From a mentor of mine. When you’re designing something, it’s important that the design has focus and strength. I always ask myself when I’m working on a design project if this has focus and strength. I used to have issues editing projects and this advice has made me a stronger designer.
What is your best tip for saving time?
Organize your daily schedule, stick to it and try not to procrastinate.
What is your routine start and end of the day?
Every start
to
the day I check my emails first. Throughout the day, I’m usually working on design projects, but always take a few breaks to check out blogs and news. At the end of the day, I check my emails again because there’s usually a persistent client waiting for a response.
Aside from your computer and your phone, what gadget can you not you go without?
My iPod and my favorite magazines for inspiration.