Nora Camp went to school for music. She taught herself design through sites like linda.com, Aquent Gymnasium, and more. She lived in New York City for 10 years, and recently moved to Philadelphia to get more space and chill out a bit with her cat (to whom I yelled CAAAAT and made grabby hands to).

Other than playing music, Nora loves Scrabble, Catch Phrase, and billiards. (And cats.) And she still likes hacky sack even though college is over. (And also cats.)

Here's what she has to say!

Nora, digital self-portrait

How do you usually start with your projects? Do you have a routine of sorts that you methodically go through?

Nora: After I go through an exhaustive research stage, my process always starts out with a pencil and paper. I sketch out ideas and create thumbnails of potential design directions. Once I feel like I have a solid idea, I bring these elements to the computer. After I present the design to the client, I get their feedback, and make revisions if necessary. Then, it is “rinse, lather, repeat” until the final product is achieved.

Nora's creative space
Author's comment - CAAAAAAAAT

How did your passion for illustration start?

Nora: My mother was always encouraging creativity, and surrounded us with art supplies and lots of free time. My older brothers had an immense effect on me as well. I remember sneaking up to my brothers’ “lair” in the attic, and staring at a painting my older brother Jamie made. Then I didn’t know what to call it. Now I see it as a Warholesque historical battle scene with George Washington. What was the most fascinating idea to me was how color had completely turned the idea upside down. A text-book battle scene with neon colors was mind-blowing. I just loved it.

It wasn’t until high school that my art teacher told me that I think like a graphic designer. I didn’t have any idea what that meant. When I looked it up later, I really saw what she was talking about.

Logo design by Nora Camp

How would you describe what you do to someone who hasn't seen your work yet?

Nora:What I do is visually bring ideas and brands to life for my clients. What I always strive to do is communicate effectively whether the medium is a logo, a flyer, a t-shirt, or something else.

My style is visually bold, direct, and colorful.

Infographic design by Nora Camp

Is there a defining influence that made a huge impact on how you work? Who are your greatest influences on your creative style?

Nora: I am fascinated by so much design out there, it’s hard to pinpoint. Some of them are David Airey, Si Scott, Nicole Martinez, and Susan Kare. Newer influences, especially in how I run my business, are Sean McCabe and Jake Jorgovan.

Giraffe and Bird Illustration by Nora Camp

Digital Portait Illustration by Nora Camp

How did you find DesignCrowd?

Nora: I think I first saw DesignCrowd in a Facebook ad. I'm so glad I read further.

Infographic design by Nora Camp

Have you participated in any DesignCrowd contests? If yes, why'd you choose to join those particular projects? If no, what's stumping you from joining?

Nora: I have participated. I usually go for logo design contests that challenge me to employ a technique or style that I haven't been able to use on my client projects. This is where I get to practice with a very focused goal. If I win, great! If I don't win, I was able to work on an interesting project that I can add to my portfolio.

Nora's submission won second place in "Find me on DesignCrowd" graphic design contest.

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