Inspiration is not only about learning by watching and imitating. Designers acquire confidence from their workspace & the tools they use.
In order to perform optimally, each of us needs a few essential elements that allow us to feel as designers. It might sound odd, but every designer will sense the different in holding a simple scrapbook and a Moleskine scrapbook. Furthermore, those elements help us to create a stylish image for the eyes of others - the once who wish to see a "Designer".
Well then, Let's start.
1. Headphones.
A good Set with a Microphone is essential to make Calls with clients. Never speak when you hold your phone with your hand - You should speak freely and naturally.
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2. Notebook.
Moleskine scrapbooks are for people who appreciate good materials, indeed. However, designers will carry notebooks such as Draplin's Field Notes.
Field Notes Brand: From Seed. See more>>
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3. Wide Screen.
If you're working on a laptop, please attached a widescreen and don't work with the laptop screen...
For Example:
Dell Computer Ultrasharp U2415 24.0-Inch Screen LED Monitor
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4. Wireless Mouse.
Probably the tool we use the most. Get a wireless and comfortable one.
For example:
Microsoft Wireless Mobile Mouse 3500.
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5. Music.
Awesome designers listen to Awesome Music. Try Bon Iver \ For Emma, Forever Ago.
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6. Books.
Some Books look boring but carry great info, meanwhile, some books Inspire just by being on the shelf & carry good info.
Here's a short list - Click for the review:
How to use graphic design to sell things, explain things, make things look better, make people laugh, make people cry, and (every once in a while) change the world.
Why Fonts Matter.
Type: New Perspectives in Typography.
Don't Get a Job... Make a Job.
Logo Design Love: A Guide to Creating Iconic Brand Identities
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7. Computer.
A Computer is important but it doesn't have to look Awesome. It's a machine that allows us to design smoothly without any need to wait or watch our software crush.
Your machine should have.
Great processor - i5 or i7
SSD Hard disk - Make a huge difference in speed.
Graphic Card - Doesn't have to be the newest.
Ram - 16 or 8.
For Example:
Dell XPS9360-3591SLV 13.3" Laptop
(7th Generation Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 256 GB SSD, Silver).
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8. Cellphone.
Pick a Good Mobile. Make it colorful. Carry your portfolio in it.
The Moto G plus 4gen is a good pick.
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9. Pen.
There's no need to get a fancy one, but just don't use a Bic in business meetups. Buy the simplest Parker, and make sure to pick a standout color - Pink, light Green, etc.
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10. Wacom.
Check out this post for more details:
WACOM GRAPHIC TABLET: WHAT, WHY & HOW TO PICK?
Wacom Intuos Draw - entry level.
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11. Chair.
Check this post for more details:
THE SEARCH AFTER THE BEST CHAIR FOR THE GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Meet the Aeron chair
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13. Messenger Bag.
Much more stylish than a backpack. Pass on the backpack.
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14. Watch.
The watch, for some reason, is one of the items which set the first impression.
Pick something classic - Look perhaps here >>