Brief introduction

My name is Stefan Smit and I work as an illustrator and writer under the name STFN aka Made by STFN. Born and raised in Purmerend (The Netherlands), father of two sons and living together with Priscilla ♥ If you want to know more about me, read on at ‘who am I’.

My knowledge of marketing

From my marketing and communications background, I can very well empathize with your problem definition, your target group(s), etc. Ever since the year 2000, when the Internet was just emerging as an advertising product, I have been involved in digital marketing. From campaigns, to web design and customer journeys. In addition, I have also been regularly involved in offline campaigns, using television/radio, magazines and bus shelters. A great starting point for a conversation, even if you’re not in marketing 😉

Conceptual thinker

In addition, I am a conceptual thinker. The advantage of conceptual thinking is that I’m good at making connections, thinking creatively, inventing new things and coming up with solutions. Thinking outside the box is a trait that I have developed very well thanks to my years of marketing experience.

How can I help you?

As a (lead) editor, brand manager, journalist, strategist, marketer or communications expert, you all face challenges. I can’t take them all from you, but I can be of great help. Consider the following examples:

• Creating illustrations for your magazine or newspaper to support your story,
• Illustrations for your presentation(s) for real power in your Powerpoint (or Keynote of course)
• Contributing to positive media attention for a new product launch
• Add extra flavor to your product or packaging
• Create a visual version of a concept, strategy or idea
• Powerfully tell your story through the use of visual content

Your own story, or that of the company, is the starting point.

Visual content is important

Visual content is online content that is primarily image-based. Common forms of visual content include images, charts, graphs, infographics, online videos, screenshots, memes and slide shows. Visual content is currently booming. Therefore, creating distinctiveness is essential.

Google’s SERPs are more visual than ever, making image SEO much more important. Media platforms, such as YouTube, TikTok and Instagram, are (still) growing rapidly. And 37% of marketers call visual content their “most important” type of content.

The power of visual content

Visual content has the power to capture the attention of your target audience and leave a lasting impression on them. Whether it’s stunning graphics, engaging videos or informative infographics, visually appealing content can help make a strong and memorable impression on your target audience.

I can hear you thinking, “I’ll create it via AI (Artificial Intelligence).” Well, you could do that. However, remember, AI-generated images are not art in themselves, but they can be, if deployed in this way by an artist. Consider, for example, taking photographs as well. Many photographs are not art, and most people who take photographs are not artists. True works of art do come from the technology of the photo camera in the hands of an artist. In fact, that shows a very different picture. An interesting article on this is ‘AI art is human. And has the same human flaws’‘

Together we impress your target audience

I create cartoon-like, illustrative artwork. In a colorful and light-hearted way, I deal with social themes. My conceptual illustrations often deal with social themes with a bit of nostalgia. My cartoon illustrations often have an underlying message as well, but never too heavy. In all cases, my style is colorful, fresh and airy. Perfect for getting noticed and suitable for a wide audience.

Shall we impress your target audience together? Then feel free to contact me for more info / questions / prices / quotes.