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The Ever-Changing World of Design: Learn all about it with Dana

The [New] Rules of Design

It has never been truer that when it comes to style, there are no rules – the only rule is what works. 
In earlier eras, design principles were based on the goal to create a trustworthy and recognizable brand across the board. While many of those principles are still true, the new age of design is more focused on the personalization of products and brands. Newer generations of consumers value aesthetics and the product experience more than older generations.  
 
In contrast to safe, minimalistic trends that reigned king for many years, these current trends are not afraid to move in the opposite direction. Boundaries are being pushed, allowing designers the freedom to fearlessly explore and experiment with color, typography, dimension, and textures. Vivid color palettes, funky fonts, and the juxtaposition of hand-made and digital have taken the design world by storm; In 2023, elevating the standards of creativity means breaking the traditional rules and rewriting them to be edgier and more unique. 


Colorful Complexity 

Designers are using what we call “vibrating colors,” color combinations that are a bit difficult on the eyes. Garish, acidic hues are striking, and they demand your attention- and it’s not that important if legibility is compromised. Currently, nostalgia is a huge influence, not only in graphic design, but also fashion, home décor, and product design. Two popular trends right now are 70s-inspired color palettes with contrasting muted earth tones and Y2K-style colors are dialed up with high-definition chrome gradients and futuristic text treatments. 


Experimental Typography 

Artfulness takes priority over legibility with distorted fonts and stretched, melted letters. Sans serifs fonts are made fresh by pushing the boundaries of size, sometimes larger-than-life or hairline thin. Also, serifs and Art Deco revival with updated with unconventional touches contrast the sophisticated air typical of these styles. 


Texture & Dimension  

As opposed to the flat, minimal graphics we’ve seen in the recent past, designers and consumers alike are connecting more with styles that have a human touch. With new technology emerging, 3-dimensional design is and becoming more accessible, and the worlds of 2D and 3D are colliding. Paper-like textures are being digitally imposed to give designs depth with layered, handmade effect. Digitally added grain, grit, and corrosion also add a handmade, down-to-earth touch, making designs feel more special and bespoke.
 
Take note of how your target audience reacts to your product or service. This will help inform how you can shape the aesthetic of your brand. At NMCO, our team is passionate about raising the creative bar and providing high-quality services for our clients. Let us help you with your business’ creative needs. Go to NMCOstudio.com to connect with us.
NMCO Studio member, Kahlo

Kahlo

Door Greeter & Cookie Eater

Kahlo is our gentle, friendly, office pup! He loves his belly rubbed, sniffing absolutely everything, and hasn’t found a treat he wouldn’t eat! Be sure to say hi, he loves the attention!

NMCO Studio member, Kelsey

Kelsey Gentile

Web Specialist

Once those websites are complete, Kelsey is our web maintenance manager. From regular updates, security checks, and content updates, Kelsey keeps our websites running smoothly, secure, and in tip-top shape.

NMCO Studio member, Annakat

Anna Kat Hollis

Senior Web Developer

Anna Kat is the driving force behind NMCO’s web development endeavors. With a sharp intellect, unwavering efficiency, and a keen eye for goals, she is the go-to expert for crafting everything from sleek landing pages to nationally acclaimed e-commerce sites. Anna Kat not only serves as your trusted web developer guide but also, if you look closely, you’ll notice she’s always impeccably color-coordinated with NMCO’s brand – a true testament to her attention to detail and commitment to the company’s image.

Zac Wittstruck

Animator

If you’re needing quality animation, Zac is your guy! Motion graphics, custom character rigging, and 2D animation are some of Zac’s specialties. Zac always wears a smile and is truly one of the nicest people you’ll meet. When Zac isn’t whipping out great animations, he plays bass guitar for a local jazz band! What a cool cat!

NMCO Studio member, Arron

Aaron Walterscheid

Video Specialist & Cinematographer

Meet Aaron, NMCO’s “Silent Assassin.” Despite his quiet demeanor, Aaron is an absolute powerhouse when it comes to videography, editing, color grading, drone operation, lighting, and crafting unforgettable cinematic experiences. His remarkable talent and expertise shine brightly, leaving an indelible mark on every project he touches.

NMCO Studio member, Sam

Sam Palm

Video Specialist & Photographer

Meet Sam, our resident photographer extraordinaire, who effortlessly transitions into the roles of Director of Photography, editor, color specialist, and an all-around Jack-of-all-trades. With an innate talent for capturing picture-perfect moments, Sam’s versatility knows no bounds. Beyond the camera, you’ll find him cruising the Southwest, embracing life to the fullest. Oh, and did we mention he boasts a head of truly great hair? 

NMCO Studio member, Ralph

Ralph Diaz

Senior Video Specialist

Don’t confuse Ralph with Academy Award-winning actor Johnny Depp. Although there’s a close resemblance, Ralph is much more talented behind the camera. He’s done it all from VFX to animation, to producing, directing, and editing some of our most memorable productions. It also should come as no surprise that he’s mastered the technical and practical aspects of videography, giving him the nickname, “The Doctor.”

NMCO Studio member, Dana

Dana Apodaca

Senior Graphic Designer & Art Director

Dana’s journey with NMCO has been nothing short of impressive, starting as a design intern and progressing to become a designer who now plays a pivotal role in assisting with art direction. Her dedication keeps our graphics department on track and ensures our processes are efficient and business-ready. Dana’s knack for creating identity systems has resulted in some of our most recognized work. And, if you’re fortunate enough to listen in, she’s consistently voted the best playlist in the studio.

NMCO Studio member

Dawn Franco

Studio Manager

With a background in journalism, file archival and organization, Dawn is our client onboarding extraordinaire. From contract preparation, to project management, account direction, and reporting, Dawn stirs the pot for most productions, making sure it’s served hot and on time.

NMCO Studio Co founder, Lucky

Lucky Gonzalez

Founder & Chief Executive Officer

When you have a wealth of creative content, you need someone like Lucky with 18 years of business experience to guide you on where to put it. He’s our media placement guru, with the expertise and know-how to maximize your impact. Whether it’s digital banner ads or broadcast TV, Lucky can take any budget and transform it into impressions and conversions. He’s dedicated to finding solutions for your unique challenges, making him an invaluable asset to our team.

NMCO Studio member, Tina

Christina Ballew

Founder & Chief Creative Officer

Tina, as a co-founder of NMCO, has been on a relentless mission to redefine creative services in the southwest. Building a creative studio from the ground up was a formidable challenge, but her vision and determination have transformed NMCO into a beacon of professionalism and innovation, known for its people-centric approach and out-of-the-box thinking. While she’s taken on nearly every role in the studio, Tina’s next ambition is nothing short of global. She’s poised to take on the world with her creative endeavors.