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Do Consumers Actually Like AI-Generated Content? Here’s What the Research Says
Graphic Design, Illustration, Design Tips, Branding Shira Bentley Graphic Design, Illustration, Design Tips, Branding Shira Bentley

Do Consumers Actually Like AI-Generated Content? Here’s What the Research Says

Over the past year, I’ve had countless messages from creatives asking the same thing: “Should I be worried about AI taking over?”

It’s a fair question. AI is moving quickly, and it’s changing the creative industry in real time. There's a lot to unpack in this conversation—copyright, ethics, opportunity—but today I want to focus on one key question:

What do consumers actually think about AI-generated content?

Because while brands might be drawn to AI for its speed and cost-cutting potential, their primary goal is still to connect with people—and the data shows that’s where AI is falling short…

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5 Common Reasons Creatives Struggle to Get Work—And How to Fix Them
Graphic Design, Illustration, Design Tips Shira Bentley Graphic Design, Illustration, Design Tips Shira Bentley

5 Common Reasons Creatives Struggle to Get Work—And How to Fix Them

It’s one of the most frustrating experiences for any creative: you're showing up, doing the work, putting yourself out there—and still not seeing results. No new clients. No replies. No leads.

Recently, I spoke to an illustrator who was in exactly that place. She was updating her portfolio, posting on social media, sending outreach emails—but nothing was landing. She was starting to wonder if it was time to give up.

But the truth is, she was much closer than she thought…

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How to Apply to Illustration Agents: Everything You Need to Know
Illustration, Design Tips, Small Business, Freelancing Shira Bentley Illustration, Design Tips, Small Business, Freelancing Shira Bentley

How to Apply to Illustration Agents: Everything You Need to Know

Navigating the world of illustration can be both exciting and challenging, especially when it comes to expanding your opportunities and finding the right clients. This is where an illustration agent can become an invaluable ally. But how do you apply to an agent, and what should you expect when working with one?

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Top Marketing Tips for Designers and Illustrators: Proven Self-Promotion Strategies

Top Marketing Tips for Designers and Illustrators: Proven Self-Promotion Strategies

For many creatives, self-promotion can feel daunting. The idea of marketing yourself might evoke cringeworthy memories of awkward sales pitches or fears of sounding too pushy. I’ve been there, too. But over time, I realised that promoting my work wasn’t just an optional part of growing my creative business—it was essential…

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Mastering Cold Outreach: How to Land Your Next Big Illustration or Design Client

Mastering Cold Outreach: How to Land Your Next Big Illustration or Design Client

Whether you’re just starting out, or you’re a seasoned creative, waiting for clients to come to you simply isn’t an option. One of the most effective ways to build a network and secure illustration and design jobs is through cold outreach…

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Why Every Creative Should Be Using Pinterest (and How to Maximise Your Reach)

Why Every Creative Should Be Using Pinterest (and How to Maximise Your Reach)

As a busy creative, you’re likely juggling multiple projects, deadlines, and platforms. So when it comes to promoting yourself and your products, you want to invest your time in strategies that deliver real results. Enter Pinterest—a platform often misunderstood as just another social media site but actually one of the most powerful tools for creatives. If you’ve been wondering whether Pinterest is worth your time, or how to make the most of it, this blog post is for you.

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Font Psychology: Unlocking the Secrets of Typography
Graphic Design, Design Tips, Branding Shira Bentley Graphic Design, Design Tips, Branding Shira Bentley

Font Psychology: Unlocking the Secrets of Typography

Ever wondered why some fonts make you feel a certain way? The right font can make all the difference in your design.Whether you're crafting a logo, designing a website, or creating social media graphics, understanding font psychology is key. I've put together a quick guide to help you choose the perfect font for your next project.

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Exploring Vector Graphics: Unraveling Their Secrets and Why They're the Choice for Top-Tier Designs
Design Tips, Small Business, Freelancing Shira Bentley Design Tips, Small Business, Freelancing Shira Bentley

Exploring Vector Graphics: Unraveling Their Secrets and Why They're the Choice for Top-Tier Designs

In the vast and vibrant world of digital design, vector graphics hold a special place. They're like the Swiss Army knife in a designer's toolkit—versatile, scalable, and impeccably sharp. But what exactly are vector graphics, and why have they become the go-to choice for designers and clients alike?

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Illustrating Children's Books: How to Craft Enchanting Visuals to Enhance the Reading Experience
Illustration, Design Tips, Freelancing Shira Bentley Illustration, Design Tips, Freelancing Shira Bentley

Illustrating Children's Books: How to Craft Enchanting Visuals to Enhance the Reading Experience

Creating enchanting visuals for children's books is an art form that goes beyond mere illustration; it's about breathing life into stories, making them leap off the page and dance in the imaginations of young readers. Here's a guide on how to craft visuals that not only complement the narrative but also enhance the reading experience, making every turn of the page a discovery.

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First Impressions Matter: How Visuals Shape Brand Perception

First Impressions Matter: How Visuals Shape Brand Perception

There’s nothing quite like the power of first impressions, and in the digital age, your brand's first impression is made through visuals. It becomes the virtual handshake that can seal the deal or break the connection. But why are visuals so pivotal in shaping brand perception? Let’s explore how visual storytelling can impact your brand's narrative.

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Mastering Modern Graphic Design: Essential Tips and Trends for 2024

Mastering Modern Graphic Design: Essential Tips and Trends for 2024

Graphic design is constantly evolving—and in 2024, we’re seeing a creative shift that favours innovation, bold experimentation, and user-centred thinking. Whether you’re designing for brands, building visual systems, or refreshing your portfolio, staying ahead of the curve means keeping one eye on the trends and the other on timeless design principles.

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