We actually have had many Graphic Design professionals or students in our classes. Because design is different than an Art Director’s job at an ad agency, from our past experience, Designers need to learn the concepting process required to be an ad agency Art Director. Therefore we recommend the Introductory/Beginning class. However, if you have had some concept classes elsewhere, let us know when you sign up and we can determine the best place for you.

 

Again, we would need to know which concept courses you’ve taken to make this determination. In the past, some students who have only taken one class elsewhere felt lost going right into Intermediate. Others who had taken several other outside concept classes were ready for Intermediate or Advanced One. Let us know when you sign up and we’ll determine the best place for you. It is important to list other concept classes you've taken on the sign up form so we can get you on the right list.

 

No problem. Just sign up again when you’re ready to continue, and remind us of the courses you’ve already taken with us at that time. We’ll then start you back in the level you should be in. (Keep in mind that the longer the interval between classes, the harder it may be for you to “get back into it.”)

 

We like to get the other kind of “book work” out of the way before class even begins. So if you can’t get a company check by then (the only checks we now accept), we ask that you pay yourself then get the company to reimburse you. We accept credit cards on the How To Sign Up/Pay For Class page of this site. But don't pay until you have received a confirmation email from your teacher after signing up (and please respond to all Book Shop emails from your teachers!) We have receipts that show you are "currently enrolled" and one that we give out the last night of class that says you have "successfully completed" the course that you can turn in to your company for reimbursement.

 

The Book Shop is designed to teach both Writers and Art Directors how to concept and come up with ads to build a portfolio so that either can get a job. However, you will need to determine which career path you feel more comfortable with at some point early on. Because even though you will be learning how to concept in general (which both Art Directors and Writers need to know), it branches off into different specialties after that. Art Directors and Writers work as a team to concept. Then, Art Directors design the layouts for print ads, know all about various typestyles and work with photographers and Directors to get a finished produced ad or commercial. Writers are required to write the body copy in ads, write the radio commercials, and help cast and record with radio talent. And though both often work on the “Headlines” since it’s part of the overall concept, the writer is required to finish the rest of the writing for the ad.

 

Yes. Not for our classes, but in the “real ad world,” definitely. Writers should know how to work in word programs and Art Directors these days must know the ins and outs of Photoshop, In Design, Illustrator and various other design and layout programs. So if you want to be an Art Director and don’t know the computer, you should take computer classes in conjunction with The Book Shop.

 

Just your brilliant minds! Plus, you’ll need a big white drawing pad (at least 11” x 14”), a large marker for assignments, and a small pad if you want to take notes.