Want To Be a Great Designer...It's Not in the Programs

InDesign Doesn't Mean Intuitive
InDesign is a lovely program. The learning curve is relatively minimal if you're familiar with layout programs.

I have to warn you though, InDesign doesn't do any thinking or conceptualizing for you even though it may look that way. Think of InDesign as simply a 'tool' to bring ideas to life. Those ideas must be worked through before even touching a mouse which is where a lot of designers make the mistake. Hell, even I've made that mistake and still catch myself at times trying to shortcut the process due to time restraints. In the end though, it turns out to be wasted time as I find myself clicking in circles.

I've learned that having knowledge of any layout program is just one aspect of developing a successful piece. Sketching, brainstorming, and getting feedback on your idea should be the first steps before laying anything out in your layout program.

Photoshop Can Make Anything Look Cool
Another myth floating around is that Photoshop can make any photo, any layout, any background look well designed; Even cool. Open a photo, download some brushes, apply some filters and you've got yourself a pretty sexy Photoshop file, right?

Well if your objective is to make your piece look like a dog's breakfast, I would say use every effect, action, brush, pattern you can. However, if that's not your goal, I would steer clear from unnecessary or excessive effects. Save 'em for when you really need them, be simple, be concise.

In terms of layouts in Photoshop, I've heard (and even worked on) layouts being done in this manner. It's a hassle, it's inefficient, and a beast when it comes to larger files. Let's not consider this program all you need. Depending on your purpose, like an e-card or a single page layout, it might be easier to work this way but when you get into the larger, multi-page documents for print, you will be thankful InDesign exists.

Just Say No!
The bells and whistles of any program can excite you, fire you up, make you feel even more creative with so many options at hand but they can also make you blind. Blind to what your goals of the project are, blind to the development stages of an idea, and blind to the ever-so-popular theory of 'keep it simple'.

So close that program and go back to the basics of drawing and thinking. I know it's tough with so many distractions waiting for you but don't give in to what they are offering you. Just say no! Walk away! And come back when you're good and ready.