About Northbound Films
A dynamic creative studio specializing in unique storytelling through high-quality video production. Proud to collaborate with a diverse range of clients, from Tesla to Philz Coffee. Exceptional in ideating and crafting content for various applications, including advertising, branding, and communications.
Summary
As a solo contractor, I completely overhauled Northbound Films' website, delivering an advanced, customized design and codebase that highlighted their brand and portfolio. A cornerstone of this project was a sophisticated scrolling effect on the homepage, which showcased my advanced JavaScript skills. Additionally, my collaboration with Northbound extended beyond design and development, offering comprehensive tech support and enabling them to manage the new site effortlessly.
Gathering Vision and Designing with Figma
To deliver a website that would accurately represent Northbound Films, I began by understanding the client's vision. We collected website references that the client admired and gathered necessary content and media. The design process unfolded in Figma, where multiple design rounds refined the site's aesthetic to match Northbound's expectations.
Tailoring the Development Experience with React, GatsbyJS, and Contentful CMS
In order to maintain fluidity and ease-of-use for Northbound's team, I incorporated the Contentful CMS, enabling them to update their site copy and media effortlessly. I built the site using React and GatsbyJS, incorporating a CMS configuration that dynamically populates new projects on the site.
Crafting an Advanced Scrolling Experience
A standout challenge of this project was the homepage's advanced scrolling effect, seamlessly fading projects into each other as users scroll. The complex JavaScript logic required for this feature became a testament to my technical capabilities and creativity.
Extending Support Beyond Development
In addition to creating Northbound's new site, I supported their team with tech-related assistance, managing their Google Workspace, domains, and resolving any tech support requests. This extended role exemplified my comprehensive approach to client service and solidified my reputation as a trusted tech partner.
From Northbound Films to Project Dope
My successful partnership with Northbound Films also opened up an opportunity to work on a spin-off project, "Project Dope," focusing on Bay Area artists. Although the website didn't launch, it offered a unique experience in modifying the same codebase as Northbound's site and adapting it to a different project structure.
Outcome
Northbound Films' rebranding project was not only a testament to my design and development skills, but it also showcased my client communication, project management, and general tech support capabilities. Managing the entire process single-handedly, from drafting contracts to meeting deadlines, fortified my experience as a solo contractor, eventually leading to additional opportunities and clients. This fruitful collaboration with Northbound Films established me as a reliable tech partner and a significant contributor to my business, Digital Maxwell.
