In this post, I am going to answer some questions that I get pretty frequently about graphic recording. From what is it to why I love doing it – I am breaking it down for you. Here are the answers to the most common questions that I get asked!
Question #1 “What’s the name of the thing you are doing?”
Most times I get asked by participants at events when I am working. I share with them that I am doing graphic recording. They have usually never heard of it before, so it is fun to share with them about the technique. Want to learn more about this? Check out this video that shares more!
Question #2 “How did you find out about this?”
I found out about graphic recording through a video on YouTube. Yes….Youtube! I was browsing videos about beauty, style and natural hair and I stumbled on a video where someone used doodles to explain the process. In the video, a woman took out a large piece of paper and started drawing. She shared that her sketches were actually called graphic recording. She talked about her business and how people hire her to listen and draw at their meetings or events! I thought to myself “you mean this is a thing, a job!” I got hooked and did some more research and later got trained in this method. From there, I gained the skills, helped clients, built a team and grew the business I have today.
Question #3 “What kind of markers are those?”
The markers that I use are very distinct and have a pretty unique look compared to your typical marker. The company that I use is called Neuland. They are based in Germany. Their products are really durable and the markers are refillable (an eco-friendly plus!). I love how vibrant the colors are. They are great quality and certainly my favorite.
Question #4 “Did they give you any information ahead of time before this session?”
Sometimes when I am hired to record an event, meeting or panel, I am provided with an outline or powerpoint of what will be covered. However, the majority of the time I don’t know what is going to be shared in a session. Event organizers don’t always have the speaker finalized or the speaker may even change up their presentation right before. Part of the job as a graphic recorder is being in the moment and listen to what is being said. While having pre-prepared materials is nice, we can not always depend on that going into an event.
Question #5 “What happens if you make a mistake?”
This is a great question! There are certainly ways to put a band-aid over your “boo-boo’s” if mishaps occur! I always keep a few white mailing labels in my kit to cover up any mistakes and keep going. I also use white-out depending on the size of the mistake. These two little tricks of the trade have helped me out over of the years!
Question #6 “Were you always an artist?”
No, not really. I have always loved art and appreciated it. However, I have never been formally trained. My father had beautiful handwriting and taught me how to write in script. He planted the seed and I never realized it until I learned about graphic recording. His script style has certainly been incorporated into my work. Lettering is a huge part of graphic recording and it is considered art as well. My background is in IT and management so I did not go to school for art specifically – but my education is a great tool for my work. I am able to mix my love of art with communication and business. Make no mistake, graphic recording and facilitation is hard work but it’s “heart work” and I love it!
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Lisa
