Riley Livett
Freelance Web Designer and Animator, Freelance Web Designer and Animator
Written by Amanda Dodd on 2009-10-09
As a freelance web designer and animator, Riley Livett has forged a career in the Media and Communications industry as the creative mind behind Rilstix.
Why did you decide to pursue a career in the media and communications industry?
The media and communications field is thriving, and I like to think that I have the skills to make my mark within the industry. I have always had an interest in animation in general and was excited by the prospect of turning one of my passions into a career. Along the way I have developed skills that have enabled me to create online content and combining animation and web design is something I enjoy. I think online audiences really engage with dynamic content and there will always be a market for it.
What are the most important/valuable skills that graduates can bring to your industry?
Enthusiasm is an obvious important skill for all graduates to have. You have to be hungry and dedicated to succeed in this industry. It takes perseverance; you have to believe in yourself and your skills to survive. Getting your foot in the door is a huge advantage, try to capitalise on any opportunity that is presented to you. Work experience and internships are an awesome platform for gaining contacts and ultimately building a career.
What features, both positive and negative, differentiate Brisbane-based media organisations to other national and international media hubs?
From experience, Brisbane based media organisations are generally smaller but definitely robust. I think Brisbane based companies are really stepping up to the global stage and creating some really innovative content despite their underdog status. Companies like BigFish are serving up content for the whole of Australia to enjoy both online, on TV and in print. Negatively speaking, the Brisbane scene tends to be unable to compare with other creative hubs, even within Australia like Sydney and Melbourne, and consequently we are losing some of our finest talents to the southern states.
What has been your most memorable achievement or experience working as a part of Brisbane’s media landscape?
One of my most memorable experiences would be my first work experience opportunity which involved creating digital signage for the Brisbane based company 4U.TV. Practically applying my animation skills in a real world context for the first time was particularly exciting and rewarding for me. I developed animations that were seen in a number of locations across Brisbane and this exposure was inspiring. Following this experience I developed the confidence that really drove me to extend my skills within a freelance career.
In your opinion, what is the most prominent trend in the New Media industry at the moment?
In terms of the Internet, the continual growth of Web 2.0 is easily the most prominent trend at the moment, with the likes of Twitter, Facebook, and Wikipedia leading the charge. Web users now expect an unprecedented level of interactivity from their favourite sites and businesses. As a web designer it is exciting and enjoyable incorporating these elements of interactivity with visually pleasing and dynamic animation content.
What do you see as the advantages and disadvantages of working as a freelance web designer?
One of the greatest advantages of a career as a freelance web designer is that I get to be my own boss. Having creative freedom is really important to me and consequently, I have worked with a number of diverse clients. Probably one of the biggest disadvantages would be maintaining a steady workload, particularly in the current economic climate. Word of mouth is obviously important and this is how I generate most of my contracts. Providing a quality service, no matter the size, is an excellent opportunity for generating new projects and extending your skills as an individual and I guess that is an important aspect of freelance.
Would you recommend the freelance path for media industry graduates?
Yes, I believe if you are confident in your skills and ready for a challenge by all means give it a go. Freelance requires a lot of effort, determination, and creative talent. The personal rewards and creative freedom this career path offers is definitely worth it. In saying this though I do believe it is important for graduates to develop their confidence, expand their skills and network. Often establishing yourself within a company or completing some form of work experience is an important first step.