Book Review - Adobe Indesign CS3 One-On-One

Adobe Indesign CS3 One-On-One by Deke McClelland is a tremendous resource for the new and experienced InDesign user. Written for the new user, it starts with the basics of the ID CS3 user interface and starting your first document. As you progress thru the project based material you are exposed to invaluable tips and tricks that will make you an ID pro in no time.

"Pearl of Wisdom" are insightful little bits of info found throughout the book, that are like pull out quotes, but are Deke's thoughts about some unique experience that he thinks you should know about to make the project go smoother.

The book comes with nearly 3 hrs of video training that is unique to this book (not extracted from his nearly 150hrs of training on lynda.com). It's advised that you watch each video before or after reading the accompanying chapter in the book. The process of Read, Watch, Do is one of the most effective ways of learning InDesign. As well, Deke's humorous writing style makes you think he's right next to you.

For experienced users, Deke successfully explains complex subjects such as XML tags. As well, even thru the basics chapters, experienced users can pick up productivity tips and hidden features that only Deke can find.

I recommend this book for all users.

Vancouver InDesign User Group

The inaugural meeting of the new Vancouver InDesign User Group was held last Wednesday April 23rd, 2008. Nearly 60 InDesigners joined Sebastian Distefano and Jeff Kew to discover what was new in the world of InDesign CS3 and what worldly learning resources were available to those wanting to master ID CS3.

Please use the link in the sidebar to access the InDesign User Group website.

Book Review - Professional Design Techniques with Adobe Creative Suite 3

Scott Citron brings it all together.

Too many computer books today just tell you how the tools work. Professional Design Techniques with Adobe Creative Suite 3 by Scott Citron does more than that. Far more!

Scott brings design and production techniques together in a process that is much more reflective of what happens in a day to day design studio. As well, Scott's writing style reminds me of being in a conversation with a mentor. Information is quickly assimilated, easily understood and efficiently implemented.

In the beginning chapters Scott reviews basic and necessary design principals for laying out a page and proper use of typography rules for kerning and leading. The project chapters and production techniques are invaluable. I can see many designers and print production artists having "a-ha" moments during their reading of this book.

I would recommend that every design and production studio invest in a copy or two of this book.