RESEARCH
Images from the GNX photoshoots were gathered to gain a deeper understand of the vibe and concept behind the album. Only then could I begin to redesign the album while maintaining the same feel as the original, a pure celebration of the one of a kind swag of LA and Compton. I also traveled to Feel It Record Shop in Ludlow, Cincinnati to be inspired by other vinyls/albums.
TYPOGRAPHY
Canto Bold was chosen to reflect the calculated and luxurious nature of the album, as well as the underlying sense of danger and suspense it holds.
FRONT OF LP
Unedited Pictures
Lightroom Editing Process
Images were changed to black and white using the "B&W" function in Lightroom, then edited further. For example, exposure, highlights, and blacks were all decreased, while contrast, shadows, whites, and clarity were increased.
Typography Iterations
LP CENTER SPREAD
In Lightroom, the "B&W" function was used to make images black and white. In illustrator, images were then constructed into a collage-style layout. Then in Photoshop, a blue rectangle was placed over the image and the "Overlay" blend mode applied. The exact hex code for Dodger Blue was used as a pop of color and a tribute to LA.
BACK OF LP
Unedited Pictures
Lightroom Editing Process
Edited using "B&W" function in Lightroom. Highlights, whites, and blacks were decreased, while exposure, contrast, shadows, and clarity were increased.
Typography Iterations
A&B SIDE RECORD LABEL
Same editing methods utilized to create the LP Center Spreads was used here. ("B&W" in Lightroom, "Overlay" with Dodger Blue in Photoshop)
FRONT OF CD
Unedited Pictures
Lightroom Editing Process
Edited using "B&W" function in Lightroom. Highlights and blacks were decreased, whites remained the same, and exposure, contrast, shadows, clarity, sharpening, and detail were increased.
Typography Iterations
CD INSIDE PANEL
Same editing methods utilized to create the LP Center Spreads and A&B Side Record Labels was used here. ("B&W" in Lightroom, "Overlay" with Dodger Blue in Photoshop)
BACK OF CD
Unedited Pictures
Lightroom Editing Process
Edited using "B&W" function in Lightroom. Whites and blacks were decreased, while exposure, contrast, highlights, shadows, texture, clarity, sharpening, and detail were increased.
Typography Iterations
CD DESIGN
Same editing methods utilized to create the LP Center Spreads, A&B Side Record Labels, and CD Inside Panels was used here ("B&W" in Lightroom, "Overlay" with Dodger Blue in Photoshop). Exact label and album codes were used as information.
FINALS
LP:
CD:
The final redesigns carry the original meaning of GNX, a love letter to LA, by still incorporating LA staples such as dodger blue, a classic Compton-style outfit, as well as that recognizable LA swag. However, they also bring an additional new, fresh, stylish, and modern feel to the album, enhancing it in a way.
