Burkhart works with a team of skilled, award-winning designers who understand the challenges and opportunities of designing for outdoor. Here are some tips to create memorable designs and captivate your audience.
WhoWho is your audience? Try to reach everyone and you’ll appeal to no one. |
WhatWhat are you trying to say? Keep it to one simple message to be most effective. |
WhyWhy are you advertising? What is the goal you are trying to achieve with your message? |
Download these Tips & Guidelines, an example of a Creative Brief or the OAAA Creative Best Practices.
Logo Formats
Vector-based logos are the preferred format (commonly seen as .ai or .eps). If these are not available, logos should be provided as a 300dpi, high-resolution image.
Client Provided Photography
Images that are pulled from Google searches are not permittable for use. Images and logos from client websites cannot be used unless the image is high resolution (300 dpi) and the client has
permission to use and distribute. We encourage you to use professional photography and allow the time needed for it. If taking your own photos, please use the highest resolution setting available on the device, and take photo in good, natural lighting on a plain background.
Stock Photography
While we are resourceful about finding quality, royalty free photos, some specific requests may not be available. We cannot promise a specific image until the creative process has begun but we will do our best to provide you with imagery that fits your needs.
Artwork Requirements
All bulletins and poster art should be saved in CMYK uncompressed .TIF format. Digital art in RBG JPG format.
Accepted files are: PSD, JPG, EPS, and High Resolution PDF but we will convert if not formatted for the above.
Microsoft Word and Publisher files are not acceptable.
Cut Out Clutter
Simplicity is key in outdoor design. Your audience has only a few seconds to read your message, so stick to 8-10 words and remove any non-important information.
Create Contrast
Whether it be with colors, typefaces, or varying sizes of elements, adding contrast makes for a more eye-catching and memorable ad.
Read It, or Weep
Replace flourishing fonts in favor of bold, simple serifs and san serifs. Script fonts are hard to read and compromise the effectiveness of your design.
Hit The Bullseye
Test your design by showing it to someone at a distance for 5-10 seconds. Did they catch your message? Were they
compelled to take action?