Interviewing: -rayofsunshine

What is your name?

Hello, sunshines! My name is Ray—well, not really, it's a pseudonym. But you all can call me Ray! I am @-rayofsunshine on Wattpad.

Examples of your work :

Why did you join wattpad?

I actually joined Wattpad for writing, believe it or not. I have established that I am terrible at it. I read about fanfictions on YouTube and that there is an app called Wattpad where you post your own stories. I was always the one who wrote plot lines in books or constantly thought about book character names. I joined as @danandphilalways (let's just take a moment to appreciate the amazing username) and then converted it from a fan profile to a full-on writing profile. Lots of discarded stories and terrible attempts later, I have finally come to this point.

How long have you been making graphics for?

As of now (July), I have officially completed one year of graphic design!

How did you get into graphic designing?

I found out about graphic design during late March/ early April and I would search up tutorials. I don't know if this is some very magical coincidence, but GraphicSociety's tutorial book was one of the first I've ever stumbled upon! I discovered Pixlr Web through you guys' 'The Werewolf Curse' tutorial. I opened Pixlr and then I actually gave up for three months. Later, in July, I finally plucked up the courage to start designing. In about October/November, I got Photoshop CS6. And whew, it was all a wild ride.

Here are Ray's old covers!

What type of graphics do you make, and which do you prefer?

I make dark fantasy and mystery graphics. I specialise in object and text-based covers but I also am venturing out into models. I can't... for the life of me... make light graphics. XD

What is your favourite part of graphic making?

Coming up with an idea, definitely! I usually take a piece of paper and roughly sketch where I want what to go, where the light will hit, where the shadows will be, where will I add highlights, etc. Incorporating them all digitally is the highlight of graphic-making. Oh, and yes! I LOVE playing with layer styles. I can make new text-styles all day.

How long does it usually take you to make a graphic?

For a photomanipulation, it takes me about 3-4 hours. If it is VERY complex, it will take me 7 hours. For covers, it's a lot less because there isn't much to do as a photomanip. A cover takes me a a minimum of 20 minutes and a maximum of 3 hours. It's usually 1.5 hours or so.

What program(s) do you use for making your graphics?

Photoshop CS 6

Where do you get your inspiration from/who inspires you?

I have stopped myself from being inspired by people because... well, I had no idea when I crossed the line between inspiration and plagiarism. So I look around, I look at anything, really. Outdoors, street signs, it's kinda random but it definitely keeps me going! Since I also have synesthesia, I formulate ideas through songs, or certain audios and such. It's a really fun experience.

Do you have any tips for aspiring graphic designers?

Don't be afraid to take risks! Experiment with everything. Just because a style does not suit you doesn't mean you are not meant for design at all. Graphic design is very, very vast, and in most chances, you might find something you love. ;)
And even though I'm probably very weird for saying this, it's okay to take breaks. Your mind and creativity are like knives. They're sharp, and with use, they do get blunt. All you need to do is step back, take a few days/weeks depending on you individually, and get back into the groove. Trust me, it's refreshing. Also, don't ever give up. Ever. With practice and the right software, you can do wonders. <3