There’s no secret that my logo and brand has evolved. Look at any of my previous designs an you can see that. I’m probably breaking every rule in the book ever thought of in regards to identity and logo design, but I loves to break me some rules. Especially if it can help me to grow as a designer and logo designer.
Before unveiling the new identity for Komodo Media incarnation five, let’s take a trip down memory lane by looking at the previous evolutions of the almighty Komodo Media logo:
Version 1: The Reptilian Head
Komodo Media version 1 reptilian head logo
There’s a reason this isn’t my logo anymore. Most people thought that this was some form of funky microphone, even though I insisted that it was a digital reptile head. Yeah…no. This didn’t really work out, however if I were to remove the digital tongue, I think that it would have been a whole lot stronger.
The text however, was really where it was at. I built the text my self and at the time, I really loved it. I loved all the circular shapes, however I was no font designer. That was for sure.
Version 2,3: The Stegosaurus Spine
Komodo Media versions 2 & 3 stegosaurus spine logo
Continuing in a reptilian direction, versions 2 & 3 was a much better attempt. With a few “stegosaurus” platelets and something that looked somewhat like an eye, I was fairly happy with this version. At least happy enough to keep it around for two versions of my site. I think I’ll still look back with fondness at this logo because it was during versions 2 and 3 of Komodo Media, that people started taking notice of my designs.
Version 4: The Cute, Consolidated One
Komodo Media version 4 “Cute” logo sans mark
As much as I loved having a logo mark, I always hated having to try to pair the logo text with the mark. It became a pain most of the time and I found myself really wanting an all text logo with the mark built into it. Also, the previous version looked so much like a stegosaurus’ back instead of a Komodo dragon, so it just became confusing.
This version saw a reworking of most of the characters in the text logo as well, fixing the ‘K’, which I always felt was ugly.
Version 5: Drafts
Komodo Media version 5 drafts
At this point, I really want to get away from the rounded text. It felt too cute, too ‘web 2.0′ if that even makes sense. I wanted to move away from the bubbly feeling and get to something more natural and more mature. With these drafts, I felt like many designers feel when working on a personal site design — I didn’t really know which direction I wanted to head — just somewhere new.
With the above drafts for the version 5 logo, I was trying to keep an all text logo, while incorporating some sort of reptilian feel. My goal was to remove the “cute” style and design it to be a grown up, more mature logo. Eventually, I decided against these. They ain’t bad though.
Version 5: Enso Brush Stroked
Komodo Media version 5 brush stroked logo
This is the logo that I have fell in love with. I’ve seen it in my head for months now, and it’s finally come to fruition. I think what I finally realized is that I’ve always wanted an all text logo that is totally original. I didn’t want to use any known fonts and I didn’t want it to seem like any font out there. This is why the logo was brush stroked by hand. I’ve also realized that I really wanted a logo that felt human…imperfect. Something that denied that we design using pixel perfect design tools with perfect vectors and grids. I wanted something that felt perhaps a bit unbalanced…a bit raw…a bit savage…like a Komodo Dragon.
Feedback?
I’d love some feedback on this logo. What do you think? Do you agree with me and do you love it? Not sold? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Thanks for reading.
I think the “not quite far enough” completion of the stroke on the O’s, especially the last two, make it seem slightly artificial, but the rest of it is absolutely awesome, and I really love it.
its kind of a big change because all of the other ones are similar to each other, and this is completely different.
at first look i could think its about a graphic design studio, or something
i like it :) but to be honest i prefer the older one
Really, I have to say that when I saw the drafts I was impressed, but when I scrolled down, that left me without words! Simply amazing! I love it! Keep it up!
When I got to the two that were decided against I was SUPER excited because I agreed, though a BIG change, a more mature brand identity and logo was in order.
Sadly, when I got to the final choice I was disappointed. I just see “Konami”… It doesn’t link up with the “Komodo” brand. I agree with alot of the intellectual goals and committments that brought you to the logo, but the logo itself is not the one to me. I definitely prefer #2 on the version 4 “drafts”.
The new logo reminds me of the street fighter arcade games. I like the first few logos though compared to the new one.
While I love the final version, the top one in version 5 seems to have so much more character to it. Probably just a personal preference, but I really love that one. :)
I’m going to be perfectly honest with you Rogie, I don’t *love* the last one, but I think it’s a great logo. My favorite is the first draft; you keep the same spikes we’ve come to know and love, but ditch the cute text. (that said, there is that awkward gap because of the spikes, so :meh:)
But, in the end, it’s your company, and your logo. Thanks for “oozing awesome”! :)
@Everyone – I knew this was going to be a jump. In fact, I figured half of people would agree with me and half would disagree. What people don’t see is the redesign behind the site. While previous versions of the logo and even the drafts seem to work with my current design, the final version is much better.
My redesign will shock a few folk, but I hope in the end it’ll be like the red-headed stepchild you learn to love and then find out you can’t live without.
I’m afraid I don’t really like your final version 5 logo. It’s radically different from the others, which is great, but as Brian said, it just doesn’t seem to link up to the whole “Komodo” idea, like the previous logos do.
If I had to choose between the 3, I’d take the first v5 logo, though I don’t like the bit cut out of the D.
@Brian I agree that it doesn’t link up with the current Komodo brand. In fact, it doesn’t at all. I think the one missing piece to readers is that the Komodo brand will change…a lot.
As I’ve told you, I love it. I think when people see it in a new context (on the new, completed website), they won’t be so apprehensive about the change. Keep it rockin.
Here’s a desktop wallpaper I want you to enjoy Rogie.
@Rogie … My concern was that it’s Komodo media, but I don’t feel any Komodo in the logo… Departure from the current brand identity is not a problem for me.
@Brian Komodo to me began as a reptilian feel — see v1 designs in the about section. Now, as I am trying to mature a bit, I still feel a sort of wild savage vibe going on with the new logo. Like slashes of paint if you will…by a Komodo Dragon! I love that you’ve voiced your opinion…and as always, luv ya too ;)
Change is good when it’s for the good and those logos are good. Did I say they were good yet? No? Ok their good… I’d say the Drafts bottom one is my fav but the Final is sick too.
I loved the evolution of the logo, and felt like the drafts were pushing it just that bit further along that path, which I think is best. The ‘Enzo’ version, I feel, is too big of a departure from your past, killing your brand equity. Not to mention, it reminds me of a Japanese restaurant… I hope that helps, and that you make the right decision.
I was liking 5.1 lots, but not 5.2 (fire makes everyone cooler…right?). I get what you’re trying to do with the rebrand and raw image.
The more I look at the brush version the more it makes sense.
Exception: the “media” typeface was screaming Shaun Inman at me. I forget is that FF Din? My brain can’t disassociate it from his blog, but anyway I don’t think they pair very well.
@Rogie I see where you’re coming from, sorry to get on your case on your own blog :(
Yeah, I can feel it. Look forward to some kind of overall concept for the re-design… something tells me it’ll be FIERCE!
@Brian Perhaps there is some way i can influence the logo in a more “slashy” brush stroke sort of way. Either that or add some spikes to the “O” again.
@Brendan Yeah, that wasn’t even supposed to be fire but a sort of reptilian spike…FAIL. And yeah you are right — Fire is sorta the failwhale of logo design. Write that down ;) The “media” is actually Hoefler & Frere-Jones “Tungsten”. Any suggestions for what might work for the “media”?
I actually like the new logo a lot. And, looking at CW’s post, I’m sure the next iteration of this blog will look *superb* with the new logo.
@Rogie Yeah it’s growing on me. I think it’s sufficiently brush-strokey… I would second the motion to change the font on “media”, perhaps even the font from the “media” on the earlier draft iterations
I love it. My only complaint is that the condensed “MEDIA” feels more like a “section of Komodo” than part of a brand name (if you will).
That is, it doesn’t read “Komodo Media,” it reads “Komodo. … media division” in my head.
Oh, and not that I expect anything less from you, Rogie, but I love the attention to detail that prevented the three Os from looking too similar. Nice work. (Example of doing it wrong: http://www.bambooscottsdale.com/)
@ Rogie – I’m thinking slab stencil almost military style, but in lighter weight. Tungsten looks too clean and geometric to match. Check Matt Brett’s distressed serifs for an idea.
The story I see is a Navy cruiser shipwrecks on the atoll and supply crates wash ashore. They’ve already been stenciled with military insignia but the markings fade. The petty officers are overthrown. After years of isolation the surviving sailors have ground a social hierarchy under the ‘Komodo’ banner. The micro-national seal is brushed across salvaged materials to demonstrate new authority.
I’m a nerd. How does Museo Serif look?
Let’s be 100% honest here. Version 5 drafts #1 is the best. Please don’t go with the brushed one it really looks terrible, if you want me to expound I will. But if you have ever wondered why nobody does a brushed font in their identity logo THERE ARE REASONS. Please don’t make that mistake. Can you imagine how terrible it will look at
a) smaller resolutions
b) printouts
c) embroidery??
d) gradients/effects
e) drop shadows/inner shadows
It is not versatile and in my oppinion completely lacks originality. Looks like the cover for some new fighting game for the Wii. Please think about this some more. I love your stuff, just feel you are taking this the wrong way.
I’m also not a huge fan of the new one and I’m not sure if just because it fits with your new theme you should use it. A logo should look great and represent your brand no matter what context its in. I love the version 4 drafts though :)
That said I still can’t wait to see your redesign and I’m sure i’ll grow to love your new logo!
Cheers
It’s cool but I like the older ones more. Maybe you should try a different “k”
I’d vote for first draft version, somehow second looks like it is on fire. And even though I’d cast my vote for Enso draft, I must agree with Mac Tyler.
My time difference between your posts and my reading them means this comments seems a little late in the day.
But I think as a lot of your commenters are saying, or implying, you may get a lot of unsureness because as you say yourself, V5 doesn’t fit in with the current brand. Currently i’m not feeling the new logo, but when I think about how the design could be infused around it, and if you can pull it off without using “pixel perfect design tools with perfect vectors and grids”, then I think it will work, and you may well become a trend setter in a whole new way.
Looking forward to exciting dramatic designs coming out of Komodo Media.
Brill job.
I must say Rogie I still regard you as the most inspirational designer I know. I love the new logo design and can’t wait to see it in the context of your new site.
The new logo is great but I prefer the version 5 drafts. Its just personal preference though.
Keep up the good work, you’re an inspiration to all of us!
I don’t link the Enso version, sorry. The drafts are so clean!
The Enso version make me think of a T-Rex.
I agree with a lot of people above. Top version 5 is my favorite. I’d say that one because it has character, and I think it’d scale very well. The last one seems like an Asian Cuisine Restaurant.
I really like the first version 5 draft, probably more than the Enso version, mainly because I like how clean it looks. I can see how the Enso verson may fit much better with the new design though and I do like it. I don’t like the “media” font as much… somehow it doesn’t seem to fit very well with the rest of the logo. Maybe because it’s so condensed and clean. Whatever you go with, I’m sure it will be incredible and can’t wait to see it!
I think the consolidated one is the best one Rogie – not liking any of the new drafts.
Stick with what works :D!
I think version 2,3, and 4 are the best. 1 is hard to tell what it is, 5 is good, but not the right style in my opinion.
Nice work Rogie!
You’re my hero.
Imperfection is perfect.
I think your new logo is an excellent example of your personal evolution. I also think it’s a great mark. If *really* wanted to bring back the dragon feel (and maybe go over the top) you could change it from brush strokes, to claw marks. But claw marks done right, of course.
I’m still not sure if that would be cheesy, or really cool.
Either way, I liked the walk down memory lane before the unveiling. And, again, love the new mark.
To be completely honest, V5 is a little too organic to me. I tend to think Japanese video games, as others have mentioned. However, I know how much a concept can come together once other complimenting factors are in place (redesign of site).
I’m sure you’ll find a way to wow us regardless! Good luck!
My first impression of the final logo was old Japanese/Samarai movies. Can’t say too much without seeing the redesign. As you’ve mentioned this doesn’t go with the current site…at all. That makes me more excited to see what the future holds for Komodo Media ;)
I love the new logo! Sooo original! beautiful!
P.S. On the topic of logos/themes, have you had a chance to check out my Songbird feather that I made for Komodo Media?
http://addons.songbirdnest.com/addon/1670
I would love to hear your thoughts and input, I still have some changes to make before I call it 1.0…. and wouldn’t mind if you had a few suggestions! ;-) Thanks!
I actually liked the reptile theme you had going on. I’m not sure about the brush stroke, though. I just feel that it’s a little too much. Version 4 is my absolute favorite. It’s simple, yet elegant and the spikes go really well with the name “Komodo”. However, this is your site, Rogie, it’s all up to you.
Love your website and social networking icons (used several of them on my blog). :D
I can’t wait to see the new logo with the new design. If the past is any indication I’m going to be blown away yet again.
I have to agree with some of the other commenters in saying that the weakest part of the new logo is the “media” text. If you’re going to use a font I would go with something less condensed, more like the font you use in the earlier v5 drafts.
The styles between v5 and the rest are obviously very different, but what if you could use “media” as a way to tie the two together? You’ve clearly built a long history with the old style – why throw it away completely? I see it as kind of acknowledging where you came from, but continuing to grow your ferocious trendsetting dragon (as shown by the brushed Komodo).
Blechy! I hate it Rogie. It looks like karate chops. I actually look for your logo when I come to this site. Which is saying a lot because I usually waste a minute or so playing with your foliage growth thingy just for fun. And that’s your fault for being so unique in the first place. So forget this karate chop nonsense and go onto to branding your name for posh silk cosmetic bags. ;)
But hey, I felt the same way about the new Jack in the Box logo at first, so what do I know. Which of course means I could (and probably will) easily change my mind once I see it in the context of your site redesign and then I’ll be calling you a brilliant genius again.
imo, I like the v5 drafts better. They’re not overly choppy, and they remove the whole “cute” aspect of the old logo.
The final version feels very natural as opposed to the choppiness in the drafts. It’s a nice logo, it makes me think of an Asian restaurant a little though.
Version 5 drafts #1 is the best, too.
I’d for sure stick with the stego-plates. They suit the design trend that you seem to be projecting.
Also,
I think it looks really well with what you have going and its something noticeable and something that I personally relate to with yourself.
#5 is very nice, this post reminds me of the one that ACE the developers for Xenoclash posted about their logo. They had a detailed process.
I would like to see an alternate version of 5 with the stegosaurus spine on one of the Os.
I love the new logo very much. Really exciting times when a new Komodo is on the horizon.
One thing wasn’t too keen on with the new logo is the “media” it doesn’t match up to the stand out “Komodo” understandably “Komodo” has to take presidence but I think “media” has to be equally as striking when attention is paid to it by the viewer. It’s just not phat enough for me.
Hey, just wanna vote for 2,3
that the most catchy one i guess.
I’m not sold on the final design. To me it’s something I’d see on a Dojo wall in a dodgy part of town.
I do however really like the 1st draft of version 5. It’s subtle, but striking. Have said that, I do have a thing for modern fonts. :-)
All in all, if each logo represented a different company with the same name, I’d choose the 1st draft co. I’d trust them to do the work I wanted in a timeous, more professional manner.
I have to agree with Kathy…not really sold on the final design either… i too think it looks too much like something i’d see on a wall of a dojo somewhere.
I’d personally go with either version 4 or the first of the two drafts in version 5. Just my two cents! Good luck and keep up the great work!
Actually, I like the last one using the raw brush strokes.
I don’t really see it in a “dojo” or something like Joe said. In fact, thinking of a komodo and where it lives… it fits in really good.
The problem (trying to be constructive here) may be that the “MEDIA” letters just don’t fit the rest. They are “too future”, “too clean” and most important “too light-gray”!
Also, when developing a brand, never forget that it’s not always a good idea to say what it’s about.
Think of “Oreos”. If you read the word, you start thinking of cookies. Why? Because you were trained to do so by smart advertising people who discovered that a simple package design showing some cookies together with the name oreos will do just fine.
Thinking of it… did you ever try to use a vector of an angry “comodo varaan” together with your main logo text? Depending on the vector, the whole thing might gainn quite some dynamics. Keeping up the idea, you could as well add the tagline “I eat design”, which might be both cool and fitting… thinking of the ogirinal “head” idea you once started with.
Ok, ‘nough nagging. Before I leave let me state that I love the fresh design of your site. Nice woodworking… it’s like a jungle, only cleaner. ;)
Sorry mate but I really think the brush strokes logo is not so great. It’s got a bit of a 90s World thing happening and the shapes seem a bit uncomfortable. I’m all for making something different and there are some solid ideas behind it, but the execution seems a bit… rushed maybe? You could spend time finessing it more, but really why bother when your current logo outstrips it by miles.
I also LOVE the second option for version 5 something about those letterforms is really pleasing to me and they make me happy, I want to look at them more.
Good luck with it all, I know self branding is the most difficult thing in the world (including calculus).
Well, reading jaz’s comment, I disagree.
I did some quick research and now I know why I don’t think the other logo versions really fit: because you use those “stegosaurus platelets”! A Komodo dragon simply does not have anything alike. For reference, there’s always wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Komodo_dragon
But instead of simply bombing into your comments box, I am currently working on a logo sample that I’ll pass on to you as an “idea”. Might take a few days (due to real-life stuff) but I’ll probably finish some sample(s) within the next few days.
(Gosh, I feel like I’m being so much more constructive again…)
aww i wish you stuck with the top one of version 5, cept maybe moving that last O back in with the rest of the letters. really liked the original type you created for that one.
the brush stroked design feels too kung-fu-dojo-mt-fuji-samurai for me (im asian so i know what im talkin about here)
I really love the version 4 design. It’s small but at the same time it’s something I notice right away. It makes me think of this site. It’s easy to recodnize too. :)
I prefer both the version 5 drafts to the one you actually decided on, although the brush strokes do look quite sleek. I don’t think it’s as unique as the draft versions though.
My pick was version 5.1. Sorry the last version just appeared a little too Japanese steakhouse for me.
Hi,
Version is my favorite because is the most concisely one. I often forgot the name of the website (kommodo? komundu?) but i never forgot the awesome logo especially the “O” and the jungle style.
Greetings
mm
I like the brush strokes very much so. However, the media text seems off somehow, i can’t put my finger on it. But all in all, they were all very nice designs.
I prefer one of the V5 drafts.
I first discovered your company with the V4 logo. If your heart is tied to the V5 brushstroke, the placement of “media” needs tweeking. So how was SXSW?
I don’t quite get v5.2 – like 5.1 much, much better. Especially the details in the text – it’s clean, concise and beautiful – and, perhaps more importantly, it actually looks original to me (the preservation of the spikes is nice!).
The 5.2 version has got some Asian kung-fu 80’s-movie style .. And I don’t think it suits you. Definitely a “not-sold” for me.
Actually, I like the final Version 5 design. I agree with others that the “Media” text does not fit the logo at all; I don’t know what it is, but it’s too glaringly different. Overall, though, I do agree that it looks very different and striking.
More than that, though, I think the idea that the design reflects that we don’t work with perfect pixels in perfect vectors in perfect Photoshop… it’s woefully inadequate, but I think it’s brilliant, and a very refreshing change from the spic-and-span designs that everyone goes for in our enlightened Web 2.0 world.