Filter by:

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…

Read More
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?

Read More
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.

Read More
Top 20 Fashion Fonts to Elevate your Branding, Logos, and Graphic Design Projects
Graphic Design, Design Tips, Branding Shira Bentley Graphic Design, Design Tips, Branding Shira Bentley

Top 20 Fashion Fonts to Elevate your Branding, Logos, and Graphic Design Projects

If you're looking for the perfect font to bring a touch of style and sophistication to your next design project, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re building a fashion brand, creating an elegant logo, or crafting eye-catching graphics, the right typeface makes all the difference…

Read More
Vector Graphics 101: Why They’re a Must-Have in Every Designer’s Toolkit
Design Tips, Small Business, Freelancing Shira Bentley Design Tips, Small Business, Freelancing Shira Bentley

Vector Graphics 101: Why They’re a Must-Have in Every Designer’s Toolkit

When it comes to creating smart, scalable, and professional-looking design, vector graphics are hard to beat. Whether you're designing a logo, crafting custom illustrations, or building a brand identity from scratch, vectors are the unsung heroes behind polished and flexible design. But what exactly makes them so powerful—and why do designers and clients keep coming back to them?

Read More
Illustrating Children's Books: How to Craft Enchanting Visuals That Spark Young Imaginations
Illustration, Design Tips, Freelancing Shira Bentley Illustration, Design Tips, Freelancing Shira Bentley

Illustrating Children's Books: How to Craft Enchanting Visuals That Spark Young Imaginations

Illustrating for children is more than making pretty pictures—it's about creating visual magic that brings stories to life. Every page is a chance to capture a child’s curiosity, fuel their imagination, and make reading feel like an adventure. Whether you’re just starting out or refining your approach, here’s how to craft visuals that truly elevate the reading experience.

Read More
First Impressions Matter: How Visuals Shape Brand Perception

First Impressions Matter: How Visuals Shape Brand Perception

There’s nothing quite like the power of a first impression. And in the digital world, that first impression is often visual. Your branding—colours, logo, imagery, layout—is the virtual handshake that introduces your business. It’s what can spark connection... or push someone away. So, why do visuals hold so much weight when it comes to brand perception?

Read More
Elevate Your Brand: Everything You Need to Know About Professional Graphic Design Services
Graphic Design, Small Business, Freelancing, Branding Shira Bentley Graphic Design, Small Business, Freelancing, Branding Shira Bentley

Elevate Your Brand: Everything You Need to Know About Professional Graphic Design Services

In a world of short attention spans and high expectations, good design isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether you're launching a new brand, refreshing your look, or trying to stand out in a crowded market, professional graphic design can help you do more than just look good. It can help you communicate clearly, connect meaningfully, and convert consistently.

Read More
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.

Read More
The Best Graphic Design Software for Professionals: Unlocking Creativity in 2024
Illustration, Graphic Design, Design Tips, Freelancing Shira Bentley Illustration, Graphic Design, Design Tips, Freelancing Shira Bentley

The Best Graphic Design Software for Professionals: Unlocking Creativity in 2024

When it comes to graphic design, your tools make all the difference. The right software doesn’t just help you bring an idea to life—it shapes the way you work, think, and create. Whether you’re building brand identities, crafting editorial layouts, designing websites, or illustrating packaging, choosing the right tool is essential…

Read More
7 Best Website Builders for Freelancers and Creatives: Build a Portfolio That Works for You
Graphic Design, Small Business, Freelancing Shira Bentley Graphic Design, Small Business, Freelancing Shira Bentley

7 Best Website Builders for Freelancers and Creatives: Build a Portfolio That Works for You

If you're a creative or freelancer, your website is more than just a digital business card—it’s your portfolio, your pitch, and often, your first impression. Whether you're a graphic designer, illustrator, photographer, or writer, choosing the right website builder can help you showcase your work with confidence and make it easier for clients to find and hire you.

Read More
How to Start Illustrating: Drawing Tips for Beginners
Illustration, Design Tips, Freelancing Shira Bentley Illustration, Design Tips, Freelancing Shira Bentley

How to Start Illustrating: Drawing Tips for Beginners

If you're just starting out with illustration, welcome! Whether you're dreaming of turning it into a career or simply exploring it as a creative outlet, the early stages can feel exciting—and a little overwhelming. There’s so much to learn, from techniques and tools to building your confidence as a creative…

Read More
How to Master Colour Theory: Practical Tips for Graphic Designers
Illustration, Graphic Design, Design Tips, Freelancing Shira Bentley Illustration, Graphic Design, Design Tips, Freelancing Shira Bentley

How to Master Colour Theory: Practical Tips for Graphic Designers

If you’ve ever looked at a design and thought, “That just works”—chances are colour had a lot to do with it. Colour theory is one of the most powerful tools in your design toolkit. Whether you’re building a brand, creating packaging, or designing social media graphics, knowing how to choose and use colour well can completely transform your work.

Read More