print ad critique

[dravalanche]

hi, I got ask to put something together for a magazine ad and was supplied a couple of images + text to build it. I've only really just started but I wanted to see what you all think? Due to the content and ad shape there's certain limits in a way with what I can do. Any ideas or critiques would be appreciated
http://img140.imageshack.us/img140/2622/billyelliotlayout03pe7.jpg

[travis]

The feet in the background look a bit low res maybe just the image. I like it.

[dravalanche]

Yeah I think I stretched the image accidentally, I'll need to re place it properly.

[ajcates]

The smaller images need a drop shadow as well. Also maybe work on the typography.

[hybrid101]

not a big fan of the type either, but i like the overall theme:D

[SlowRoasted]

The skin colored text needs to be changed to a color that contrasts a little better with the guy's leg.

[leeblack]

I agree with the type too. also be careful with your bleed as text/images on the right hand side is a bit close to the edge - remember print materials when cut on machines may go 2/3mm either way on the bleed - you wouldnt want your type to be cut through!

I also noticed the spine graphic on the cd doesnt match up properly with the spine itself - I assume it's just a layer needing nudged in photoshop?

Overall it just needs a few tweaks and you have a balanced design.

[dravalanche]

I also noticed the spine graphic on the cd doesnt match up properly with the spine itself - I assume it's just a layer needing nudged in photoshop?



Crud!! how did'nt I notice this?! :crying:

[DDD]

I wouldnt do a gradient in the bgrd sine the focal piece (cd) already has on in it. And from what you have comped there I would say the bgrd feet where acting almost as a picture in picture so solid color in the bgrd would work alot better.

I hope that made sense. But try doing one with a solid (black) bgrd and re-submit (just for my edification if nothing else :lol: )

[dravalanche]

cd cover has been changed ( which is good)

as for the text, how does everyone feel about futura instead of the helvetica i was using. I kinda like it more.
http://img519.imageshack.us/img519/8564/billyelliotlayout05bz5.jpg

[ajcates]

very very nice, the test where it says "Other great cast recording also available" needs to be nudged down about 2-3px so it is centered also it doesn't flow very well where it says universal and getmusic.com.au

[hybrid101]

looks much much better:D
i love it;) but still ,the background legs are a bit low res:P

[Christov]

looks much much better:D
i love it;) but still ,the background legs are a bit low res:P
Thats the only thing I could find thats really 'criticizable" about it, other than that I love it :glasses:

[DDD]

To me now the bgrd looks really out of place. It almost looks creepy now, kinda Grudge like. I would pick more upbeat colors and bgrd imagery now that the cd has changed.

[shane-c]

I agree with DDD about the background. Also, I would mess with the typography a little more. It looks like you're using the exact same weight and size throughout the ad - you might try experimenting with some lights, semibolds, etc., and some different sizes, to give the important parts of the text some more contrast. Nothing over the top, just something subtle to lead the eye around.

[RabBell]

this is just a little thing but shouldn't the list of songs be the first bit of text, instead of who wrote and directed the musical. I think move the "Featuring 15 Classic..." text up, the "Music by Elton" down and switch colours.

Agree with everyone else about the background as well. Maybe something more inline with Billy Elliot would be better. How about a male ballet dancers legs instead of a womans?

nice though, coming along :cool:

[dravalanche]

this is just a little thing but shouldn't the list of songs be the first bit of text, instead of who wrote and directed the musical. I think move the "Featuring 15 Classic..." text up, the "Music by Elton" down and switch colours.

Agree with everyone else about the background as well. Maybe something more inline with Billy Elliot would be better. How about a male ballet dancers legs instead of a womans?

nice though, coming along :cool:

i dunno, the text came from marketing and they're pretty definet about it order ( i dare don't question the powers that be, lol)

As for the background I think they wanted to push the whole musical/stage/theatre idea. Originally they wanted stage curtains in the BG but it did'nt work, hence I used the stage/shoes.

[dravalanche]

. How about a male ballet dancers legs instead of a womans?



I think it is a mans leg.... well boy dancer legs... I did'nt really notice the gender of the legs to be quite honest.