A graded graphic review by Planetariums

Graphic submitted:

First impression: 8/10

"Interesting" was the first word I can come up with because it's fantasy and underwater. The colors are vibrant and catches the person's eyes quickly, so therefore, the rocks are the first thing on my radar. However, the underwater concept is quite difficult and I can understand that it does not look like it's submerged at all, but really, there is not a single air bubble(aside from the ones around the type and top corner; if they are bubbles) in sight. There are no seaweed, yet there are animal life floating around. I find it too impossible, but that could just be the super dark hue on the rocks. There's just too much shadow and it makes the mermaid really pale like she's a sea-hermit seeing the light of day for the first time(I'm exaggerating. Don't take it to heart). If you can tone down the hue or make it lighter, that would be fantastic.

Poster layout: 9/10

Pretty good layout. The type is right in the middle and in-your-face-you-must-read-it-or-you're-blind. Except because the violet color is very vibrant, it overshadows the words since the type is about the same color as the background. Also, it could be moved a little higher to garner more attention. But aside from that, it's very spacious, the images have room and are not cluttered together. The mermaid is the main focus and it's easy to follow the images in the background. Though, I'm wondering about the structure in the background because compared to everything else, it's a different color and makes it seem like it's not part of the picture. It's like the picture is on land instead of underwater.

Font: 3/5

First, the type is about the same color as the background as I've already mentioned and I believe you should consider changing the color because it looks like you just changed the blend or added gradients. It would be wise to make it lighter than the background color so it could stand out more, or if you like, add some glow behind the text. It may go well since a lot of the things swimming in the back practically have some sort of glow to stand out. Second, either make the type bigger or move it higher because the color is too close to the colors on the background. Third, the choice of type is passable, but it lacks the creativity that comes along with, which is why this is average. I can sort of see the typeface you're going with on the word "Water" especially the "W" resembles a trident. You could probably play with that and make it stand out more, creative-wise. Fourth, the sentence on the bottom is too small and for the sake of my terrible eyes, please make them bigger! Otherwise, legibility and readability are great.

Character layout: 5/5

Pretty great. Each person is in their own little world and the animals are floating around. Maybe just the guy on the top above the mermaid looks a bit awkward since it doesn't have much of that violet blend that everything else has and he's more two-dimensional. But anyway, the placement of the characters are great.

Color scheme: 3/5

Okay, so I cheated a little and looked at the other colors you had out there. Personally, I think the blue would be the most realistic and believable despite what people have told you otherwise. I think it's mainly because the castle or structure in the background actually has a different color and isn't covered by the blue color, which makes the structure less noticeable. I do not think violet gives off a "underwater" feeling unless there's notable blue blend mixed in there. You could probably experiment with two colors instead of focusing on one, hence, the ocean isn't one color and the penetration of light can change that, giving life to those swimming in it. Try some gradients and experiment with them.

Mood: 4/5

It's clearly a portrayal of underwater fantasy. But since it doesn't have that submerged feeling or the moment you find sparkly treasures underneath, I had to take out a point. Though the expression of the mermaid is set right and the motion of the other mermaids/men showers this with that happy out-of-this-world feeling. Also, maybe consider adding mirage waves in the back to give it that underwater scene. Unlike movies, which are made to focus on details. I doubt you can see clearly with your own eyes if you put your own face underwater.

Overall looks: 9/10

It's pretty well-made and thought out. The scenery and texture blend really nicely together aside from the things I've mentioned.

Total score: 41/50

For doing graphics for more than a year, you are getting better (I hope). I sincerely hope this critique was helpful and not so harsh. I really like your sense of imagination. Though, of course, keep experimenting, look at tutorials or at how others do it, it'll give you idea how to practice.

Thanks for requesting, and please leave a comment when you have read this review! Come again!

cr: Pay It Forward