Effective photography can create an authentic human connection with the viewer and invite them into a shared Valdosta State experience.
When used consistently, our photography gives the brand message credibility, visually demonstrating the Valdosta offer both in- and-outside the classroom.
Portraits
Our portraiture photography should capture members of the Valdosta State community in a real and engaging way. Whenever possible, photograph a subject in the context of their active environment.
While we never want our portraits to feel “posed,” it’s unavoidable that we will have to position our subjects during a curated photoshoot. When doing so, give your subject ample distance from the background, and angle them with the light source 45° from the face to create flattering shadows.
Environments
Our environmental photography, both inside and outside of the classroom, establishes Valdosta State as South Georgia’s university. The safe and beautiful campus is showcased as a hub of activity and student life.
When possible, capture images in natural light and include ample negative space for type and graphic overlay.
Halftones
Halftones are an effective way to add color and create a neutral backdrop for text and graphics. They also add an analogous texture that is reminiscent of traditional printing methods.
To make a halftone, open the image in Photoshop. In the top menu, select Image > Mode > Grayscale. Then select Filter > Pixelate > Color Halftone. Enter “45” in all Channel fields, and adjust Max Radius to your desired level of pixelation.
Save the image as a TIFF and import into InDesign. Click once on the image to change the background color. Click twice to change the foreground color.
