Gathering reference images across a wide range of occupations serves as the visual foundation for this project. Curating photos of people in their natural working environments — from chefs and construction workers to teachers and healthcare professionals — captures the posture, tools, and energy that make each career instantly recognizable, giving every illustration a strong sense of authenticity before the first line is drawn.
Each illustration begins with a stock image reference, used as a structural guide for posture, proportion, and the defining details of each occupation. From there, the image is reinterpreted digitally on Procreate in an intentional, distinct style. Careful thought was given to representing a genuine variety of races and occupations, ensuring the final collection feels reflective of the real world. Then, I vectorized the line art in Illustrator.
The back of each card prioritized clear information hierarchy, using simple headings and concise descriptors to surface key data points — salary ranges and job requirements — at a glance. A QR code was strategically placed to direct users toward career resources. Initial designs leaned into baseball-themed typography and textures, but were revised following client feedback to align with their established brand identity, transitioning to Citizens Green as the primary color.
From a branding standpoint, the initial design exploration incorporated typography, textures, and color palettes rooted in baseball aesthetic conventions. However, following client feedback, the design direction was realigned to better reflect their established brand identity, resulting in the adoption of Citizens Green as the primary color — a decision that prioritized brand consistency over thematic stylization.
