Session 1

Building Community

"Each of the fragments in my work is a representation of what has built us, what sustains us, and what will shape us as we walk into tomorrow. They make us who we are. We are many things: well-made, cumbersome, awkward, elegant. We are complicated. We are human." —Wayne Brezinka

In this interactive session, award winning illustrator and artist, Wayne Brezinka, will share about his work and process, and what he has learned about human connection through the creative experience. Join the conversation as Wayne shares about process, community, transparency, and telling stories through image.

Session 2

The surprising benefit of following best practices for acquiring images, design, and fonts

Sometimes navigating copyright, contracts and licensing can be a real headache. The general population has little understanding of the nuances. And if you ask two attorneys for clarification, they might give you differing opinions. Not to mention the fact that contract language can sound like the teacher from the old Charlie Brown cartoons, wah-wah, wah.

If you have asked any of the following questions, or have them asked of you, then this user-friendly and legalese-free session on copyright, usage, and contracts is for you.

• Can you send me the layered files and fonts?
• Do you have an author photo we can use in our marketing campaign?
• Can I put that font on our network/server for others in our org to share?
• Can we use this same design for the Spanish translation?
• Why are you asking me to include a credit line with this picture?

We’ll cover the essentials for designers (or any image/font users) and talk about a few simple steps you can take now to protect your company from infringement while being fair to the creatives that you help support. After all, building relationships based on respect, clear expectations, and fair compensation can result in mutual trust and consistently high-quality work...without unpleasant surprises.

Session 3

Reflecting the Creator’s Heart: Processing and translating words into a visual connection

As the Creative Director of She Reads Truth, Jeremy is continually inspired by the beauty of words, specifically scripture. As designers working in publishing, words are a vital part of our day to day thoughts. How do we process and translate words into a visual connection? In this session Jeremy asks the question “How do we draw from the beauty of God’s word and translate that into visual designs that reflect the mystery and glory of creation?” And, how do we also do that in a way that allows the reader to connect to a deeper meaning?”

Session 4

Designing for Digital Sales

The sales environment is changing, and every publisher, big and small, is tasked with the same challenge; How do we optimize our sales opportunities in a bold, fast-moving digital environment? In this session Amy presents practical design-centered applications to maximize backlist product sales within your digital channels. You will see how these strategies are being applied in real-life scenarios, and come away with some ideas for your own backlist solutions.

Session 5

Creating Design Dialogue

Criticism is hard to take and hard to give, and if not handled correctly, it can cause big chasms in your team and cross-department dynamics. There are many elements to healthy dialogue, and handling (and giving) constructive criticism is one of them.

In this session, we will explore ways to engage in positive dialogue that not only builds relationships, but also elevates the Design and Marketing processes. In this session you will learn how to:

• Approach your design conversations with your desired results in mind
• Keep the conversation on topic
• Focus on the design goals for your project
• Handle criticism in a positive way

Stronger dialogue means healthier relationships and, in the end, a stronger product design. Gain a new perspective on how you can improve your design dialogue.

Session 6

Capturing Light: Photography spotlight

Micah Kandros has spent his career creating for others. As a photographer, he works closely with his clients to capture the mood and personality that they desire to portray by approaching each session with an eye for the dramatic.

Anyone who has worked on a photo shoot knows the many factors that affect the final outcome. The client, lighting, location, interruptions, vision ... all play a role in getting that perfect shot. In this session, Micah will share about his photography work and also his process to get exquisite shots. Learn how to make the most of your photo shoots and gain tips on ways to work better with your photographers through his experience.

Session 7

Best Practices for a Successful Design Career

No two design careers are alike, and we can all learn from each other. Discover some best practices for advancing in and loving your design career.

Jade Novak

Jeremy Mitchell

Heather Brewer

Amy Cerra