I keep hearing that my visuals are too direct. Basically, my CDs think I'm illustrating concepts too literally without much subtlety. I get the occasional good one, and things are generally fine, but I really want to improve my visual storytelling. Does anyone else ever get this kind of feedback?

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Yeah. Many times. Still struggle with it now and then. I notice that that happens when I think too much about the visual. If I illustrate/design a bit more loosely it’s often better received.

And maybe it’s a good idea to try to create/phrase a little visual concept within the bigger concept you’re working on.

Like a little statement:
We’re going to use the product to cover a part of the headlines.
We’re going to blur the part of an image we’re not sponsoring.
Etc etc.

With any creative endeavor, it's always good to remember that it really happens in the mind of the intended audience. You don't need to be literal. What would be ideal is to use the least you can to make what you're trying to convey resonate in the head of someone seeing it. Go back to your visual inspirations, whoever they might be. I always think Edward Hopper's paintings are a good example of creating great impact in that way.

Yep, and I still catch myself falling into the literal trap sometimes. What’s helped me is showing early sketches and getting reactions before polishing. That way I can test how people read it. If everyone says the same thing immediately, it’s probably too obvious. If there’s some discussion, I know I’m on the right track.

Sketches and word brainstorms are key

I think this is something that happens to most people at some point. Especially when you have been doing it a while, you get more literal. Looking more at the big picture, concepts, it helps me to pull back a little and not be so ‘literal’ as I have also had it put to me in reviews.

really? I feel like I've gotten less literal more artful over time

I used to! Sometimes you have to find visual metaphors to showcase what you're trying to express. Try to focus on an idea and all the ways it could be said or drawn. Simple and minimal is always best too, but always harder to achieve.

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