Julie Chan
Q What do you do?
“I’m a freelance graphic designer, currently designing animated web based film & tv pitch and posters.”
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
I started by following a lot of creative platforms (freelance & opportunities board) and posting my work online! I also went to networking events in London for advice, portfolio help and opportunities.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
I’m interested in cinematic and editorial aesthetics designed through the use of different technology and softwares.
Q What are you working on right now?
I’m working on web based, animated film & tv treatments at the moment for an agency. Treatment is a term used in the film industry, which refers to a pitch deck designed to raise funding and for internal communication. It usually showcases necessary information i.e. script, characters, cinematography etc.
Q What’s your style?
I would describe my style as “cinematic expression”, as film and editorial visuals are something I take inspiration from. When I design film treatment, I try to create the cinematic effect through graphics i.e. grain and lighting animations. I’m also inspired in fashion/ beauty related concepts, evident in my personal projects and agency social media work.
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
I wish I can focus and improve on my layout and typography skills.
Q What is frustrating you right now?
I find it hard to establish recurring clients while freelance, most work is one off (which I'm still greatful for) yet very unsustainable. I hope I can work with more production houses and commercial clients independently, but ideally working full time in house and having a stable salary.
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
I would hire someone to do and organise outreach spreadsheets, maybe also a general assistant/ strategist in my career haha
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
I wish I can tell my 17 year old self to choose new media art / graphic design instead of textiles design. I chose the subject because I was interested in fashion and the designs around it, but later realise my talents and strengths are better suited with digital design. Therefore spent two years trying to pivot towards this direction.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
If I could talk to an expert, I would love to understand more on the application and opportunities of graphic design in fashion industry (editorial, post production/ shows and event spaces.)
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
I would like to continue designing film treatments, and develop more work opportunities in branding, social media or event related graphic design. I'm looking to work in house as a designer, as freelancing is too unstable at the moment.
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
My ideal collaboration would be working very closely with the creative, potentially a director or an event organiser. We would have similar artistic vision and complimentary skillset. I would love to be a part of the creative process, instead only a client relationship/ skill based.
Q: What is your rate?
Animated web based treatment: $2000 Still treatent: $1000 Poster design: $150 Logo or social media posts: $400 Prices are only for reference, could fluxuate based on complexity! For creative collaboration, art projects and non-profits very happy to go with a discounted rate :)
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
I prefer straightforward communication on email, so it feels sincere and clear for us both!
Q Who is a creative you admire?
I really appreciate my friends in the creative industry. Not only their work are innovative and original, they are also a good friend to hang out with!
3D artist focused on experimental use of technology Christie Lau @lau_christie
Coder and fashion photographer Kezia @e_kezia
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
Infuse life with tiny projects: cooking, customising sneakers and archiving work physically.
This member profile was originally published in September 2024.