Improving Your Image Through Visual Communications



Journalist - Photographer - Writer

Sunday 27 February 2011

In business with a new logo

By Darren Stones

There’s much to be said for a business having a logo as it sends a clear signal to people that you’re “in business.”

A few weeks ago I was reading through the forums on Flying Solo – Australia’s solo and micro business community, and read some comments by graphic designer Daniel Abela. I was impressed by Daniel’s spirit and his passion for wanting to satisfy his customers.

Whilst browsing Daniel’s site, I noticed that his sense of humour is similar to mine. Seeing someone’s character shine through via their business site is something that impresses me. Soloists are well placed to do this and it’s something I endeavour to do.

My initial approach to Daniel was straightforward:

"Hi Daniel, I'm seeking some design work and require a logo design. I see you can design for a letterhead, business card, and other stuff, too. Would you be interested in doing some work for me for my business which is Darren Stones Visual Communications? PS - I've become aware of your service via Flying Solo."

Daniel promptly responded and was keen to assist. From there, things moved along seamlessly between us to a point where I’m happy to say that I love my new business logo. I’m “in business” folks.

I’m happy to recommend Daniel Abela Graphic Design & Web.

Thursday 24 February 2011

Depression - the lived experience has an upside

By Darren Stones

Hi folks, this message is directed towards people such as myself who have lived the experience of depression, are currently battling with the illness, and for those who are considering becoming involved with beyondblue’s blueVoices.

beyondblue, Australia’s national depression initiative, has just released a video that features the new beyondblue CEO Dawn O’Neil AM. Dawn outlines the vital work of blueVoices members and Ambassadors in assisting beyondblue to further develop its resources, programs, research and campaigns.


An update on myself and how I’m feeling
I’m happy to say that I’m no longer taking anti-depressant medication and have recently begun re-branding my business and developing a new range of products and services.

I’d like to thank all of you who have supported and encouraged me. It’s been a bumpy ride since I broke down in Centrelink in September 2009, but I’m now tackling my (new) life and my (new) business with a brand new enthusiasm. I dare say a new book is about to go on the drawing board – the working title is: Ticking boxes.

Regards,

Darren Stones
blueVoices Member

Tuesday 22 February 2011

Pelicans that can't fly and poop

By Darren Stones

Merimbula Lake, Merimbula, New South Wales, Australia IMG_7850_Merimbula

Title: Merimbula Lake
Photographer: Darren Stones
Location: Merimbula, New South Wales, Australia
Date and time: Wednesday 28 April, 2010. 7:49am.

“I’ve had a love-hate relationship with pelicans since one stole my freshly-caught trevally during low tide at Merimbula about 10 years ago. So what if I was silly enough to leave it 100 metres away on a sand bank? The pelican that cleverly manoeuvred my trevally down its neck will be indelibly etched in my memory. And they poop everywhere. One of them has even had the arrogance to display bad toilet manners whilst flying above me. Bombs away! These days it’s different. There’s a new breed of pelican that can’t fly and poop, and they’re quite photogenic, too.” – Darren Stones

Series: In The Field

Tuesday 1 February 2011

Merimbula Photography CD

Darren Stones Visual Communications supplies high quality digital photographs to businesses so they can improve their image through visual communications.

I've released a product for businesses that are seeking a collection of Merimbula images. The images contained on the Merimbula Photography CD are designed for businesses who desire to showcase the region on their business website with the intention of increasing their clientele.

Merimbula Photography CD
The Merimbula Photography CD is available to purchase with all images contained subject to licensing. Images are supplied on CD by post.

Images on CD:
20 photos PLUS 5 bonus photos = 25 photos. Images can be previewed online.
Merimbula Photography CD

Permitted usage:
  • One nominated website only
  • Unlimited years licence

Photographs can be used for:
  • Accommodation websites
  • Club and hotel websites
  • Tourist attraction websites
  • Real Estate Agency websites
  • Business websites that require images

How to use photographs:
  • Rotate images on your website pages to keep the site looking fresh
  • Showcase the region and increase your clientele

Pricing:
$220.00 Includes GST and postage within Australia - Unlimited years licence.


Further information:
For assistance and more information, contact me by email or phone.
darrengstones@gmail.com  Mobile: 0419 200 469