James Dorondo
Creative
With over 15 years of creative design experience, I have filled the roles of graphic designer, video editor, motion graphics artists and senior creative director. In my current role with Upper One Studios, I provide oversight of graphic design, motion graphics, web design and development. My current focus is to develop sales automation by building a sales funnel, to include creating the customer journey via digital marketing, lead capture pages, and a customer relationship manager.
The fast-paced and ever-changing challenges of advertising in the information age suits my energetic personality, calm demeanor and critical thinking skills. These skills lend themselves well to finding solutions that work with timelines and budgets. My ability to direct a team through written and verbal communication and two way conversations ensures that the entire team is on the same page. Any issues that may arise are addressed, guaranteeing the creative vision and functionality are achieved for each project.
EXPERIENCE
UPPER ONE STUDIOS INC — 2016-PRESENT
Directed overall functions and processes associated with video editing, motion graphics, web development, and print design as Senior Art Director. Oversee processes associated with management and development of websites and hosting, as well as e-commerce solutions. Manage significant challenges involved with internal IT issues and perform computer repair and system maintenance.
- Demonstrated distinguished performance in building and designing network attached storage (NAS) and virtual private network (VPN) services as CTO; managing network for growing team.
- Trained new hires for video and motion graphics department and web development team growing Upper one Studios.
- Generated new gross revenue stream of $100K plus per year for company by spearheading and creating virtual events department.
- Identified and initiated further opportunities by writing hosting and web maintenance estimates and contacts.
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Developed Standard Operating Procedures for web development & Corporate Branding Style Guides.
GRAPHICSCOM/RAINFALL MEDIA — 1999-2016
Managed various nationwide vertical market websites, such as creating graphics and multi-media projects for web distribution along with collateral print materials (flyers, magazine ads, business cards, and banners). Established and sustained robust working rapports with vendors, including voiceover talents, graphic, web, and Adobe Flash designers through effective communication and management.
- Maximized business development efforts by creating effective sales presentations.
- Established custom contact manager for multilevel marketing companies that cued customizable emails to prospects.
- Provided high level of services by developing data-driven websites using the content management system (CMS) WordPress.
MORRIS COMMUNICATIONS LLC. — 2009-2012
Responsible for designing and maintaining websites and delivering top-notch services, as well as creating online media elements and data base management. Managed legacy websites, running variety software platforms, such as Pearl, Joomla, and various merchant services.
Technical Proficiencies
Web Production
Multi-Media
Graphics / Illustration
Pre-Press & Pagination
Skillsets
Art Direction & Project Management
While having excellent conceptual and organizational skills, I believe my biggest asset is interacting with clients to understand their needs and desires, while maintaining the overall marketing strategy. I'm well versed managing creative talent and vendors, properly conveying project goals to ensure budgets and deadlines are achived.
Web Production
Software: WordPress, DIVI, DreamWeaver CC, Hype, NaviCat
In addition to the standard HTML5, I’m also fluent with CSS, JavaScript and templating aspects of web site creation. I have also created data-driven websites using PHP (OOP), jQuery and MySQL. I’ve been primarily developing websites using WordPress since 2016.
Multi-Media
Software: AfterEffects, Premiere, Cinema 4D Studio, Element 3D
I primarily use Adobe Premier and AfterEffects to produce video for social media and television. With the addition of Cinema 3D and Element 3D, I have created 3D animations, compositing these elements into seemless visual effects.
Graphics/Illustration
Software: PhotoShop/Illustrator, Cinema 4D, ProCreate
Using Adobe PhotoShop and Illustrator, I've created illustrations, logos and photo manipulations for over 20 years. I have added Cinema 4D to my arsenal to create 3D product illustrations.
Pre-Press & Pagination
Software: PhotoShop/Illustrator/InDesign
I have extensive knowledge of both the technical and design aspects of the production of printed materials. By using Adobe InDesign parent pages and style sheets, I ensure that documents are produced with each brand's, style guide, defined fonts, color palettes, logos and iconagraphy.
VFX, Motion Graphics & Video Production
VFX, Motion Graphics & Video Production
The sizzle reel above shows visual effects and motion graphics that I personally executed using a combination of Adobe Creative Suite, Element 3D, Cinema 4D, problem solving and creativity. I’ve been the creative lead and written many video productions, as well as trained staff in post production. Click below to view samples of productions I’ve played a major role in, such as, storyboarding, scriptwriting, editing, motion graphics and visual effects.
Photography
Photography
Illustrations
Illustrations
For illustrations I primarily use Adobe Illustrator and ProCreate. Keeping my workflow digital is faster and provides more options especially when on a deadline. One use of my illustration skills is to create storyboards for video productions.
Design
Design
Design is more than creating an attractive layout. It has to communicate the message and brand clearly and compel the audience to take the desired action. I strive to create designs that evokes an emotion.
BRAND DEVELOPMENT
BRAND DEVELOPMENT
Social Media
Social Media
When crafting a social media post, it is essential to grab the attention of your audience. By creating a post that conveys a concise yet compelling message, that engages viewers and encourages them to take action.