I'm the sort of nerd who can quote Lord of the Rings, enjoys tinkering with computers, and reads philosophy for fun.

I went to art school and studied Illustration thinking I'd be a "cool" artist for the rest of my life, but it seems that the nerd in me was determined to re-emerge. I've stopped resisting, and embraced my true nature. Now I work with computers every day, and I feel right at home.

That's right. I've found that the formal training in art and aesthetics that came along with my degree in Illustration has been an enormous advantage in my work as a designer for both print and web. How so? Well, it means I don't make design choices based on my own preferences, but according to proven, established principles. I don't use a certain color just because I like it, I use it because it's warranted - either by composition, eye movement, or palette balance; and, most importantly, only if it fits the needs of the client.

Nope. Don't get me wrong; I think Flash is cool, and in my opinion Actionscript is one of the most awesome things ever invented. I also think that Flash is a tool that has its place, and should only be used where it can enhance the user's experience. Some of the worst sites in the history of the web are Flash monstrosities that are too busy dancing around for the user to find any real information.

Whether they like it or not, tech professionals - especially designers - don't just sell their work, they sell themselves. They sell the fact that they're capable, confident, and ready to serve the needs of their clients.

I've seen a lot of resume and portfolio sites that offer no clue about the person behind the words and the work. When you hire me, you're not just hiring a set of skills. You're hiring a person, and I want you to leave here with some idea of who that person is.

Oh, and thanks. That is a pretty good picture of me.

Advertising Creative Designer

Fayetteville Publishing Company

Fayetteville, NC

2005 - 2007

• Designed print ads and campaigns for numerous outside clients
• Maintained a superior standard of quality in all areas of ad design; including real estate, automotive, retail, and inserts
• Created ads, posters, and other in-house marketing materials for company promotions and events
• Led formal and informal training in software techniques and layout for designers
• Attended client meetings with account executives and helped close sales and ensure customer satisfaction

Retouching Expert

Lester's Photography Studio

Fayetteville, NC

2004 - 2005

• Provided photo retouching, manipulation, and restoration services
• Set up, coordinated and maintained all company computer systems
• Built first company website
• Created advertisements, signage and promotional materials
• Assisted with and ran studio photography sessions
• Worked as on-site photographer for weddings and special events