Everyone has their own methods of getting inspired for a project. Some diligently research every angle of their source and others turn on the music and dive in blind. There is no right or wrong when it comes to the creative process, it’s all about the final product and that sense of satisfaction.
While I do love the rock blaring in the background, I’m not the diving type. Sometimes it takes a bit for me to get the creative juices flowing. The web is a fantastic way to gather ideas from a wide range of sources. Inspiration doesn’t have to be specific to your project medium so don’t be afraid to look in some unlikely places.
There are plenty of “Inspiration Lists” on the internet, this is just a list of my favorites.
Galleries
Design galleries and showcases are a great places to research design trends in a variety of online industries. Be warned, sometimes it can be inspiration overload. Keep focused and don’t let all the flashy lights distract you.
http://www.cssmania.com
http://www.unmatchedstyle.com/
http://www.stylegala.com/
http://www.cssbeauty.com/
http://cssremix.com/
Coding & Development
Inspiration isn’t just for the visual medium, sometimes we need creative solutions for what holds it all together.
http://www.alistapart.com
http://www.w3.org/
http://www.hackwordpress.com
http://nettuts.com/
Magazines, Internet Publications & Tutorials
Great tips and tricks for the design process. Showcases some great work.
http://www.smashingmagazine.com/
http://www.layersmagazine.com/
http://psdtuts.com/
Color
Need some color in your life?
http://www.colourlovers.com/
http://www.visibone.com/colorlab/
If all else fails, go for a walk. Nothing is more inspiring then the world around you.
