Project One

Design a portfolio or promotional site for a professional photographer. You may choose any photographer as long as they have a compelling body of work. The assignment will be completed using Figma / XD along with Illustrator and Photoshop as necessary.

Since, for many of you, this site will be your first foray into web design, we will be focusing primarily on creating visual mock-ups and functioning prototypes in Figma. You do not need to write any code for this assignment. I will also provide a list of suggested “recommended photographers” for your consideration.

Design Considerations

1. Goals & Audience

• Determine the goals of the site and identify the target audience.

• making your first thumbnail sketch, create a list of what the client would want to accomplish with the site (I can act as the client for this part if needed).

• Compare the client’s goals with the needs of the target audience.

• Prioritize functionality: make sure the site responds well to both the client’s goals and the audience’s expectations.

2. Content Definition

• Clearly define the site’s content and make it central to your design.

• On the web, more so than in print, content is king.

• Let the photographer’s work guide the structure, navigation, and visual style of the site.

Project Steps & Deadlines

Step One – Information Architecture & Wireframes

On Tuesday, September 9, 2025, you will begin by mapping out your site’s information architecture using pen or pencil and paper. Consider how many pages the site will need, what content is most important to the audience, and how the photographer’s work should be displayed. Once you have a clear direction, create wireframes to establish the overall structure and begin to show how the navigation could function.

Step Two – Typeface & Color Options

By Thursday, September 11, 2025, you should prepare three typeface and color treatment options. These will be shared and reviewed in class as part of your design exploration process.

Step Three – Rough Layouts (Mobile & Desktop)

On Tuesday, September 16, 2025, bring a rough build of all your pages in both mobile and desktop layouts. Be prepared to share your work in small groups, test the navigation of your prototype with peers, and record feedback and reactions.

Step Four – Refinement & Feedback

During class on Thursday, September 18, 2025, incorporate the feedback you received from both peers and your instructor. Use this step to refine your design and move your prototype closer to completion in preparation for critique.

Final Critique & Due Date

In Class: Tuesday, September 23, 2025

Present your finalized prototype for full in-class critique and discussion.