
Capturing the Images and Video to Fuel Powerful Graphic Design

Nicole Carson Bonilla of Bonilla Design
I graduated from Brigham Young University with my bachelors in Visual Arts with an emphasis in graphic design and marketing. My husband, Gabe, also graduated from BYU with a bachelors of fine art in Illustration. We have been working together as graphic designers since 1996 (also the year we got married) creating strategic marketing materials for our clients. We are able to take a new business idea from the logo phase all the way to marketing materials, packaging, website, online graphics, promotional photography and videos. We can also start working with an existing brand or identity and plug in the missing marketing pieces at any stage in it’s development.

The Introduction of Photography and Videography to Bonilla Design
In 2013 I had set aside some money to buy a horse. I had my eye on a handsome buckskin gelding. Around the same time I also had a few projects that needed some photography and videography and the idea of buying a camera also came to mind. After some careful pondering, I felt inspired to invest in professional camera equipment instead of the horse. As much as I love my equines, I have yet to regret my decision.
Videography and photography have become a new exciting creative outlet and means of better serving my clients. As I am often designing brochures and websites for clients, i’ve been limited to the photos and videos available from stock websites. Now I have the ability to capture the ideal photos and film the compelling stories to complete the strategic and creative vision for my print and online marketing materials.
Because I serve a wide variety of clients in a variety of industries I haven’t focused on one specific style of photography or videography. I’ve learned to shoot whatever style the project warrants. This versatility also provides endless opportunities to continue to explore and try new things—keeping the creative juices fresh and flowing.
Online videos have become even more relevant and important to any business with an online presence. Our attention spans are limited so videos have to be brief and to the point. I am able to create online promotional videos more affordably than larger production companies because I have a small and robust crew (myself and sometimes an assistant), only the essential equipment, and I can edit and upload quickly.