As I started the process of expanding my UX portfolio, I encountered the challenge of selecting the most impactful content from my vast array of diverse projects, ranging from storyboarding to video production and information architecture.
Among my previous works, I stumbled upon an intriguing class project: a shoe commercial for a new line of New Balance sneakers. Reading through the campaign proposal, I was pleasantly surprised to see how my storytelling abilities aligned with the principles of UX design. The proposed New Balance storyline, titled “Run Like the Wind,” was both humorous and creative, boasting an appropriate narrative arc. I couldn’t help but remember my instructor’s encouraging words. “Good Job Cara.”
While “Run Like the Wind” might have been an excellent addition to my portfolio four years ago, I didn’t know if it would make the cut for my most current portfolio. This dilemma sparked an innovative idea within me – leveraging the power of AI to reimagine the entire story and take this deliverable to new heights. The prospect was awe-inspiring, and what took me just one and a half hours, would have required weeks in the real world.
Imagining the possibilities of using AI-generated art to craft compelling User Stories fascinated me.
The process started with:
- Selecting the perfect art style for the storyboard; I opted for a Pixar cartoon look.
- Next, I began writing prompts that would align with the essence of my original story. Prompts are like commands to guide the AI. I quickly discovered that finding the right prompts was an art in itself.
Admittedly, the AI didn’t always hit the mark, but with a dash of creativity and patience, I was able to create astonishing graphics for storyboards and user stories, taking the project to an entirely different level. The awesome power of AI in this creative process was evident, and I marveled at the immense potential it held for reshaping the world of design and storytelling.
The AI doesn’t always get it right- but with a little creativity and patience, a person can create high quality graphics on a completely different level.
Here is an excerpt from the story:
John heads to work, and after a long day, he makes a stop at the flower shop and picks up some groceries before finally arriving home, exhausted. As he succumbs to his work-induced weariness and falls asleep, an extraordinary event unfolds within his dreams. A demon-possessed clock named “Time” emerges and challenges him to a thrilling boxing match. During this dream sequence, Sergeant Paul appears, urging John to confront “Time” and conquer the challenges that lie ahead in his life.