Project 1 Preliminary Critique

[ravens.way]

I like the mountain image used in your first design. It reminds me of my home. I can't find anything to suggest you improve on this one.

I like the creative style used in your second site. The style applied to the buttons for your links is making them difficult to see.

[dbranby]

Hi, Cindy! First, let me say that you're not the only non-traditional student in class, though I like your attitude. Even Albert Einstein said we are happiest when we're learning!
You're off to a strong start on both designs, but I feel like the first version has more potential. The image of the mountains, trees, and stream create a fresh, organic feeling that draws me in, so I would encourage you to play with and refine that version.

Typographically, I'd probably make the Ansel Adams quote a bit smaller and give it room (a border space) to breathe up there in the sky. For the copy in the bar, I think I'd take a look at a number of background and type color schemes so that your copy "pops" a bit more (has a higher contrast and better legibility).

I look forward to seeing what you come up with next!