need better way of creating mock ups

[silent1643]

getting more into web design lately and starting to think my mock up process is the reason why I am failing - are there any good tuts for creating a web mock up?

i usually draw a general idea on paper then dive into photoshop - but the outcome is very bland once im done - might be rushing into it - need a check list or a guide to help

[tonynoriega]

what do you mean bland?.... photoshop is a great way to do mock ups...

i have done a majority of mine with PS... or AI for that matter.

im not intending to be rude, but maybe you need to learn the capabilities of the tools better?

and "bland" isnt always a bad thing... i refer to it as simple and clean.

i can offer some tips if needed...(and these are my tips...some may have other ideas)

obviously i keep everything in its own layer. then group the relative elements.

i use guides and rulers. it helps when it comes time to slice up your mock up.

if you want to create a menu that has a drop down... create the drop down portion too... so your audience can actually see the drop down before its on the site.

if you are running low on creative ideas.. search all of those free website template sites... cruise through and find what you like, or what will look good... and create your own version.

take bits and pieces of each one to create your own...

take a look at "creative " sites for new color schems you may not have noticed before.. i like Veer.com.