Crossing Over

      In the field of graphic design, or just media in general, nothing can be more fun or challenging that a crossover. Whether it's a promotional event, or working with another artist, crossovers are sure to catch a viewer's eye! Granted, this doesn't mean they'll be an instant success. If anything, you might have made a spectacle out of a mess. This week, I want to go more in depth on this subject, and what makes a crossover work. Without further ado, let's go!

     One thing to understand about crossovers is that not everything meshes well. For example, brutal horror and children's entertainment isn't exactly a perfect idea; unless you do it ironically. Even then however, it's a thin line on how successful it will be. At the end of the day, every crossover is conceptual, and it will take a good amount of planning, agreement on both parts, and backing to put it to paper. With all of that to consider, its important that you make sure the two components can provide an idea worth investing in.

    Of course, it's one thing to come up with an interesting idea where both IPs work. It's entirely another to actually pull through, and make the idea a worthwhile watch. For example, while two popular comedies meeting up might seem like a good idea, consider what the plot would even be. Also consider things like how much representation both sides get, and how to best present it. This might seem like a mild summary, but it is a good kicking point with whatever project you wish to collaborate on.

       Finally, the main thing about a crossover is to make it fun. With all of the rules set before you, and an idea of what you want to do, now is time to just let the words and images flow! That way, when it's finally time for the audience to see it, it'll be great for them too! With all of that said, thank you for reading, and stay tuned!

A Style For Everyone Involved

       So, last time I explained how graphic design was a two in one package for everyone involved. In a blog post from a while back, I talked about simplification, and how you need to learn to use it right. Now, I'd like to go off of both of them to talk about a third subject, style. I might have touched on this a bit in the past, but I want to go in depth here.

       In essence, I want to use the upcoming show Hazbin Hotel as an example.

Image courtesy of Ayy Lmao of Youtube.

     Here we have two designs of the same character,  but I want to put special attention on the stripes. The stripes on the old design are smaller,  and there are more of them, while on the newer design, they're bigger, and don't have as many. In general, one could say that the newer design is less detailed. That isn't a bad thing though, as it does make this easier to animate. One might argue it is a bit lazy, but keep in mind, this original design was used for a pilot, made by a smaller team.

     Now while one would think more animators would lead to more detail, one has to remember not everyone has the same skill set. You also have to remember that this is going to be a show out on more of a regular basis. So, a compromise was reached, and a simpler design was made. A style for everyone involved isn't just a way to stay distinct, it's A way to ensure the people working on the product can work on it. It makes it so the style is easy to recreate when it needs recreation. Say, not to many colors in a logo.

     With that said, thank you once again for reading. I hope my point was able to come across, and that you stay tuned!