Early layout styles & progress

I've produced some early layout styles today based on a portrait dimensioned book. I tried some landscape layouts but it wasn't working so I left them, and most guide books I have found on my research have been portrait.

I have used a 3 column grid to place the elements and have only completed one style so far, but it is a complete "section" of the book that follows someone from their work place and finished with a review of the restaurant.

It still needs some work but I am quite happy with the progress made.

Tomorrow I will look at the cover for the book. My original concept of keeping it fairly plain with an embossed title might not be suitable as all the guidebooks are brightly coloured, with a strong image, to try and grab the attention of anyone browsing them.

Prof Project - First Steps

Today I have been trying to get in contact with Friary Press in Dorchester for advice about printing my book. I found the contact number easily enough but it seems the number is no longer in use!

I have mailed Neil to see if he can contact Brendon (ex student) as he had his book printed there a couple of years ago.

After further research I found RPM Digital Print in Ferndown who I am going to visit on Friday to speak with Matt Lofthouse, as apparently he is the man who knows everything.

I don't really have any ideas to show them but I did explain that its early days at the moment and I just wanted to get an idea of turnaround times, paper specification, inks and whether they can emboss and provide spot finishes etc.

This week I aim to have some initial ideas drawn up into my sketchbook and some strong layout concepts too.