MinhChau TranLe
Graphic Designer / Illustrator / Brand/ Creative/ Educator
Vietnam
instagram @galleta.mc
instagram @natalliatr.93
Q What do you do?
I would love to convey all the messages through the colors and visuals. To me, designer is not only about designing, creating but also telling the story. There is always a story behind each of my designs. I do have many stories to share with the world. Colors and images are the best way to touch their hearts. Besides illustration, it’s also about the story behind your brand.
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
From a young age, I had a talent for paintings, but I still had no idea about being a designer. You know, designing and painting are two different fields. At the age of 14-15 years old, more chances were given to me when my family opened a small studio. I gradually explored different aspects of design, and I realized that my passions were rooted in this field. After 4 years of university, I kept improving myself by joining the master's course in Spain. Besides, being a freelancer and having 4-year experience has made me as I am today.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
Speed. I have the ability of intense concentration. I have never been late for any deadlines. However, this does not mean the quality is reduced. I always get my things done in the right amount of time. If your job needs to be done urgently, you can hire me. I ensure that everything is by the deadlines.
Q What are you working on right now?
At the moment, I am an Art Director for a local brand (smelling solution product) in Vietnam. I am also a lecturer at Van Lang University. It is one of the top graphic universities in Vietnam. Sometimes, I do some jobs related to graphic design as a freelancer.
Q What’s your style?
About design, simplicity has always been my focus. However, the brilliant and colorful designs can not put me in difficulties. I always try myself in a variety of design styles. About illustration, I have lots of passion for simple images with light, sweet colors.
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
I would love to focus more on branding. I want to help the brands to tell the story behind them.
Q What is frustrating you right now?
Compulsory and ambiguity. I always think that we do understand our own stories. If you are not distinct, I am incapable of showing yours through images. And as you know, the compulsory makes the creativity gone. I am totally open to listening and changing, but are you ready to show me your story in a very detailed way? If yes, we are ready to work happily and effectively. I consider my job a joy and I do not want to become a designer who just always follows rigid requests without any creativity or any proper reasons for changing.
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
Have a coffee and listen to your story.
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
You are the best, Natallia, always.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
It would be about Marketing. It helps me have a better view of another aspect of the brand. Apart from this, I want to get more experience in UX/UI. It is becoming very popular, and I'm very interested in this field.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
The projects about infographics.
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
The clients who can listen and understand their own stories. The better you know yourself, the more easily I can convey your messages.
Q: What is your rate?
My prices are based around $50 an hour and $80 per hour for urgent jobs. Besides, if you change the brief more than 3 times, I have to charge more fees for each change.
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
Play and have fun
This member profile was originally published in February 2022.