Waitsfield Church

Archive for March, 2010

Getting invoices paid is no always as easy as it seems. I never start a project without a down payment and a lot of people won’t hand over the final project without receiving the final payment first. That’s a great way to get your money but I’ve not found a way to pull that off in all cases. For instance, maybe I’m just shy but I don’t think major record labels, book publishers, or post production studios that I have freelanced for will appreciate that type of demand. They generally cut checks once a week if not once month… credit card payment is rarely an option with larger organizations, in my experience. You can claim that the reason the deadline wasn’t met is because they did not pay you before you would release the design work, but that’s probably going to be very short-term thinking. You may get your money, but probably never get another project again. Add in international projects and wire transfers and you can forget meeting the turn around time! If you have advice, I’m all ears.

I found this video over at  MOGOLLON. It cracked me up as it pokes fun at pricing and invoicing for design work and client reactions. It seems so shady when put into this perspective. Check it out.

Source: Barton Damer

Earlier this year I was able to work with Anne Jackson and Thomas Nelson Publishing on a book cover concept for Permission To Speak Freely. Anne is an amazing person and I encourage you to check out her new release. My artwork concept was well received but in the end did not fit the right mood they wanted to portray. Check out her new book HERE. Working on her book cover was awesome (even if it wasn’t used). I hope to work on more book cover concepts for others!

Source: Barton Damer

I worked with Chris Korbey and Matt George of Tractor Beam here in Dallas on a local campaign for Scion of Lewisville. It will be used as part of a “non-traditional” ad campaign. I was hired to help concept ideas to appeal to a young/hip/urban/skater generation of drivers. I also did the 3d and compositing for the project. I’m hoping to dissect the project a little bit next week and show some of the elements that went into the making of.

Source: Barton Damer

Beachgoers from around the globe know that St. John is at the top of the list when it comes to phenomenal island locales. The island’s natural beauty is challenged only by the amazing Caribbean sea that surrounds it. Because nearly two thirds of the island is designated as a U.S. National Park, it is one of the most scenic and unspoiled islands in the Caribbean. The weather is beautiful throughout the year, with temperatures hovering in the low 80’s.

Guests who choose to experience the Caribbean in style often recommend one of the amazing St. John vacation rental properties. Many offer unmatched views, private swimming pools, outdoor showers, and more!  Whether you choose to be pampered at a luxury resort, or have a whole island villa to yourself, you’re sure to be pleased with your taste of island life.  While the rentals do come fully-equipped with kitchens, many guests choose to let someone else handle the meal plans.  With over 35 restaurants to choose from, there is no shortage of cuisine to sample.

Outdoor activities are a favorite way to pass the time in the Virgin Islands.  Some consider a great book in a hammock as active as they’d like to get, while others opt to try out some of the area’s favorite water sports.  Some favorite water activities include scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, kayaking, and fishing.  A trip below the surface of the water will show you the island from a whole new perspective!  The countless tropical fish swimming around, beautiful coral clusters, and variety of marine life continues to keep both visitors and locals in awe of the beauty of the Caribbean.

Shoppers will enjoy Mongoose Junction, located in Cruz Bay.  Offering a variety of goods in a beautifully crafted shopping village, you’re sure to find that perfect item to take home with you at Mongoose Junction! 

Be sure to set aside some time to explore some of the many amazing beaches while visiting St. John.  Words and photos do the island no justice when trying to explain the unmatched beauty of this island paradise!  Be sure to look out for one the wild donkeys that roam the island for a fun diversion from your average beach vacation.

What is your favorite thing about St. John?  The beaches?  The shopping? The activities?  Something we’ve missed?

Images courtesy Andolent

Source: ErinJ

Its no secret that we like the Outer Banks.  What’s not to like?  Impressive vacation homes, sweeping seascapes, and the salty sea air are just a few of our favorite things about the area.  Families have been renting the impressive oceanfront vacation homes for generations, returning year after year for an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.  Children grow up enjoying the local beaches, and return with their own children when they’re grown to share a little piece of their heaven with them.  Fishermen have told tall tales that resonate throughout the islands for centuries, overshadowed only by the local pirate lore.

We’ve spent a lot of time researching the area, both online and in person, and thought we’d share a few of our favorite things about North Carolina’s Outer Banks.  Take a look at the list, and see if you can resist planning your own getaway!

• Outer Banks Vacation Rentals - Offering everything from oceanfront estates large enough for a family reunion to quiet condos for a romantic getaway, the Outer Banks provides a plethora of lodging options.
• The Beaches - The Outer Banks consists of a string of islands that stretch the length of the Carolinas.  Spend some time exploring the seemingly endless shoreline.  You’re sure to enjoy!
• Fresh Seafood - Oh, the amazing fresh seafood!  Visitors from inland will never see the term “fresh catch” the same.  The Outer Banks region is home to some of the most amazing seafood in the world.  Be sure to try some new things!
• Fishing, Fishing, and more Fishing - Surf casting, pier fishing, and deep sea charter fishing are just a few of the local favorite ways to get the freshest catches available.  Bring your gear, or rent it from one of the many area vendors. You’re sure to spin some tales!
• Golf - Golfers of all ages and abilities can test their skills on one of the many area courses.  The options are endless!
• Wild Horse Tours - See Corolla’s famous Spanish Mustangs in their natural habitat.  A once in a lifetime experience that will leave you in awe.
• Shopping - What’s a vacation without a souvenir to remember it by?  Explore the numerous shops, galleries, and boutiques for the perfect momento to take home with you. 
• Fun For The Whole Family - One of our favorite things about the Outer Banks is how family friendly the islands are.  The variety of tours, activities, and entertainment are endless!  Explore the island on an Eco Tour, teach your children how to cast a line, or grab some buckets and hit the beach in search of treasures.

Do we have you convinced yet?  If not, you’ll just have to see for yourself.  One trip to the Outer Banks, and you’ll never want to leave!

Images Courtesy Swimparallel

Source: ErinJ