Meet designer Nadja Hallfahrt, creator of the Berlin Geekettes logo.

Interviewed by Jess Erickson, Founder of Berlin Geekettes.

Let's start with an intro, what do you do?

I'm a freelance illustrator and graphic designer. I specialize in creating characters, but I also have experience in designing websites, logos and icons.

What was the thought behind the Berlin Geekettes logo?

My first thought was to create something that shows a woman's creativity, strength and femininity. That's why I choose a really playful Font. The girls head speaks for itself. A beautiful and friendly young woman with a powerful charisma. To show that she's geeky, I choose the nerd glasses. That's it ;)

What is your usual design process?

At first It's important to think about the look and feel, and whether it's a funny Illustration or a business website. When an Idea comes up to me I start with small sketches, and it slowly grows into finished work.

What software and hardware do you use?

I work with my lovely MacBook Air, a mouse and most importantly my Sketchbook :) I mostly use Illustrator and Photoshop.

What kind of projects are your most favorite?

My favourite projects are those where I am able to draw, paint or illustrate something. But whenever I'm asked to produce a whole website, I get really excited. I love creating something from the ground up, or give something a complete new look. That's important to me.

Who do you think are the most creative minds in the design industry today?

All the young people that create new styles and ideas, whilst working at companies or at their desks at home. I also like those that use spray cans instead of cursors, and design our cities while we sleep at night.

What are you currently working on that's a personal project?

On a zombie Illustration, and a new Print for Artcore Illustrations.

When you're not busy designing online, what do you do creatively offline?

I have my sketchbook and my sweet dog, Amy.

What motivated you to become a designer and what are some of the most challenging and rewarding parts of your job?

I've been drawing since school. I attended different art courses. The first plan was to become a famous fashion designer, but I really don't like to sew. Haha!

So I carried on with drawing. My motivation was to make people smile when they see my work, and that's why I created my little characters. Also my first love motivated me by showing me all the things I can do without paper and pencils. That was an important point in the beginning of my career as a digital illustrator. He built my first website and had great ideas to help me become more and more popular on the internet.

The most challenging part of my job is dealing with clients that want to switch direction half way through. But you get used to it. The most rewarding aspect to me is that I meet lots of different people who have different ideas and passions. And when someone gives me an honest "Thank you" for my work … well, that means a lot to me.