Michael Scalzo’s Portfolio

I’m a Chicago based graphic designer with 14+ years of experience in the marketing and design industry, several of which being in a senior position. I have extensive experience with conceptualizing and managing for marketing campaigns for digital and print based projects. My extensive knowledge in the Adobe Creative Suite, along with my experience in coordinating projects with individuals and businesses proficiently, have allowed me to become the professional that I am today. I look forward to showcasing my abilities!

Awards & Scholarships

Gold Award Winner

2023 EduAD Award, Advertising

2023 EduAd Award, Special Event Materials

2022 Billboard Design Series Gold Winner, Collegiate Advertising Awards

Silver Award Winner

2023 EduAD Award, Direct Mailing

2023 EduAD Award, Publication/External

Distinguished Service Award

Cultural Association of Bengal North America, July 2015

The School of the Art Institute of Chicago Scholarships

Merit Scholarship, Distinguished Scholarship, Transfer Scholarship Award, December 2007

Certificate of Recognition

Special Service to Prairie State College, 2007

My Skillsets

Below is a brief synopsis of my expertise and skills as a graphic designer, along with my time, dedication, and progression through the development of my career that showcases my aptitude and acumen in my profession.

Adobe Indesign

I have 14+ years of experience in using this software to create long and short form print designs. From Magazines and Annual Reports, to events flyers and signage, I always strive to create the best creative designs possible with a cohesive mindset with my clients.

Adobe Photoshop

I have 14+ years of experience in using this software to enhance imagery for design usage. I excel in photo editing and image manipulation that goes beyond using AI rendering, along with creating web based designs such as web banners, social media graphics, and web based ads.

Adobe Illustrator

I have 14+ years of experience in using this software to generate illustrative artwork to enhance print and web based projects. Creatively designing logos, infographics, icons, and print graphics for shirts as well as other swag materials have led to an every day request for my expertise in this area.

Adobe Lightroom

I have 6+ years of experience in using this software to enhance and master raw imagery. Beyond my own personal photography endeavors, I have also worked in retouching for professional photographers as well as novices in a professionally driven atmosphere.

e-Blast Development

I have 10+ years of experience in developing e-Blast designs, mostly through Constant Contact, Mail Chimp, and Microsoft Outlook. I use my design skills in iconography and photo editing to help develop eblasts which, along with my knowledge of ADA Compliancy, has made me adept in this skill.

AI image Rendering

I have 2+ years of experience in using AI image rendering tools, with most of my experience coming from Adobe Photoshop and Midjourney. I have done multiple projects in this timeframe for creative and technical purposes, from retouching images due to resizing to fully developed creative imagery for marketing purposes.

Project Management

Since becoming a graphic designer, I have constantly striven to keep a high standard of organization, collaboration, and timely development of projects with my clientele. I have successfully completed an average of 200 projects per year for the past 8 years, several of which have led to receiving design and marketing awards from various organizations.

Logic Pro

I have 8+ years of experience using this software in order to arrange compositions as well as develop foley sound experience for animation and for film. Recording and creation of sound elements to fit the theme and environment of films is an avid skillset I am always looking to enhance professionally along with gaining more experience.

Communication

I pride myself on cohesiveness and collaboration between myself and the clients I work with, inclusiveness in the design process is key to delivering concepts that are in tune to the preferences of each entity that I work on projects with and can create stunning results. Because of my attention to detail in communication I am able to lend my experience and expertise to a wide range of projects, while maintaining the desired look for each project.