Week 13&14 - Web Design

Web design and layout was a good assignment for me because I freely admit that I’m technically challenged.  Unlike most of you in this class I didn’t even have a cell phone until I was 30, and this class is the first time I have ever even looked at a blog.  I do use the internet from time to time but realized while completing this week’s assignment that my experience is limited to a few sites that I frequently visit.  I guess you could say that this week expanded my horizons a little bit. 

Rules, rules, rules – there are so many! Being a photographer in my spare time leads me to rules regarding images.  The right image can bring a reader into your website and achieve results.  Whether it is shopping, news, research, or enjoyment, the right image can say it all.   Be sure that your images are top quality.  If you don’t take them yourself, there are plenty of resources to use free of charge online. Stock.adobe.com, Dreamstime.com and iStockphoto.com are just a few resources I have found. I’m sure there are plenty more.  National Geographic is probably one of the best places to see quality images.  Their website, www.nationalgeographic.com is world-renowned for their spectacular photography, and their placement on their website makes anyone stop and read the captions or headlines for the story.

Color schemes are also a huge interest to me.  You can do so much with color.  Hyundai is a great example that I used in the assignment this week.  They used the black & red to make a dramatic impact and grab the reader’s attention.  After that, their layout flows nicely and gives information without being boring.