What’s one skill or technology you’ve learned recently that has had an impact on your work?
Not a surprise - it’s GenAI, in particular Midjourney. I try to keep up in the game of image generation and play with it when more creative visuals for work are needed. I’m curious to explore how one can “tame” Midjourney - use it for specific use cases, e.g. creating images and illustrations for company materials and presentations. In my free time where I do photography as a hobby, using GenAI features of Photoshop is a game-changer. Photo retouching has become easier than ever before, saving many shots by expanding or cleaning up backgrounds with one click.
Any tips for maintaining a healthy work-life balance?
I don't see work and life as opposing forces to balance; work is a vital part of life that should be enjoyable. To reach this point, I've changed my career (twice) and now truly love what I do. Like many, I believe in spending quality time with loved ones, staying active, eating healthily, and pursuing other interests. That's why I choose employers who offer flexible hours and hybrid working modes, allowing me to hug my cat and partner during breaks and enjoy more time together instead of commuting every day.
What emerging technologies or trends are you excited about?
One of the technologies that is widely spread already but, I feel, not discussed enough, is the drone. While we often think of drones in terms of their fun and practical applications, like aerial photography or delivery services, their role in recent events has highlighted a much more profound impact. During the full-scale invasion of Russia in Ukraine, drones demonstrated their ability to disrupt multi-billion dollar military industries by being cost-effective yet highly efficient on the battlefield.
For us designers, this is a crucial moment to reflect on the dual nature of technological advancements. Drones, once seen as mere recreational gadgets, have proven to be powerful tools capable of significant influence. This realization urges us to consider the broader implications of our designs and the technologies we create. We need to start challenging and shaping the discussion around these technologies, recognizing their potential beyond their immediate applications. It’s essential to acknowledge the power dynamics at play and the ethical considerations that come with designing tools that can significantly impact society in ways we might not initially foresee.
