Author Interview – CyanPepper

There are a number of authors on GraphicRiver who have quite a varied portfolio of works for sale on the marketplace. From the looks of it though, it seems like there are few with portfolio as diverse as CyanPeppers. While the majority of CyanPeppers files are hi-res texture packs, there is also a variety of other files like business card templates, vectors, and isolated objects to name a few.

1. Can you tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do?

I’m a graphic designer from Victoria, BC, Canada. I work with a small creative agency called thenumber. I also have a background in audio engineering. I ran a small studio for a few years and I teach a recording course here in Victoria. I’m also currently working on a recording book. Other than that, my main focus is design, which is why Graphic River appeals to me so much.

2. What has been your experience with selling files on the GraphicRiver marketplace?

My experience has been great. The site is very easy to use, and there are lots of great files here. It’s easy to see that the folks at Envato care about their projetcs.

3. What is your highest selling file? Why do you think it is so popular?

My best selling file is a layered psd texture called “red scratches“. I used alpha channels based on photographic textures to make this colourful texture. Colour theory is really interesting of me; This one uses a mix of warm and cool reds to create an interesting texture. I guess other people found it engaging too.

4. Do you do any sort of marketing for your GraphicRiver files? If yes, what do you do?

I link my portfolio from my own website and from link-sharing sites like digg.com

5. How do you get ideas for new files to sell on GraphicRiver?

It’s a combination of two things: what I’m interested in making, and what I think will be useful to those who buy the files. I think those are the two main reasons to do anything, really: for enjoyment and to benefit others.

6. What advice would you give to other authors on the GraphicRiver marketplace?

Don’t be discouraged it if takes a while to get some momentum with your sales. A big part of this is a numbers game: the more files you have available to buy, the more sales you’ll make. Also, keep the buyer in mind when making files. Useful files sell.

7. Other than your own work, what is your favorite file for sale on GraphicRiver?

“WE’RE ON A BREAK” by MIDNIT3_S3V3N. Adding depth, texture and realism to website designs make them so much more interesting and engaging.