My current mistress is Flash CS3. I am equally comfortable with both ActionScript 2 and 3 (as well as timeline-based authoring) - but think that the class-based approach of AS3 is definitely the way forward. I use Flex Builder 3 to make my life easier when it comes to rich data-driven applications, and use AIR to add a bit of desktop shine to the whole affair.
When it comes to XHTML, I am one of those people that proudly claim that they hand-code all of their websites - but that doesn’t mean that I’m a nutter that shuns productivity tools and uses the most basic text editor going. My weapons of choice are TextMate and Dreamweaver (in code view, of course), with FTP tomfoolery in the form of Transmit (although I am being rapidly won over by Zend Studio). I code by hand because I like to understand what’s going on under the hood, and want to ensure the code is as clean as possible (no, I don’t have OCD or anything). Also, I code by hand because when it comes to server-side scripting it’s the only way - and old habits die hard.
For web development, I generally get down with PHP (4 and 5) and Ruby on Rails. Object Orientated Programming, Model View Controller - I’m comfortable with the lot of them. Whilst I’m happy to use the Active Record approach to database integration, I’m not afraid to get my hands dirty with SQL syntax. When it comes to client-server communication, XML and API’s is how I roll. And the command line is my friend.
At the end of the day I am a designer, so it would be wrong of me to leave out the old faithfuls - Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign (I have been known to do design for print, but don’t want to brag).
If you would like to have a look at my CV (with full employment history), or just want to have a chat about what I find interesting about web technology and the way I see it going, why not send me a quick message and we’ll sort something out.
My name is Phil. I’m about average height, with brown hair and brown eyes. I’m a Virgo.
I didn’t always work with the Web, you know. After studying Architecture at University (degree and diploma level - that’s 5 years of learning!), I tried my hand at architectural visualisation and running my own business. My progression into web technology was fairly organic, as more and more clients became web-savvy and I developed my services to include the odd website here and there.
I strongly believe that my architectural training has given me the ability to successfully work across all aspects design, build and development within the Web - bridging the gap between creative and technical disciplines.
When I’m not working I mostly spend my time doing one of the following:
I’m basically a nice guy, and I enjoy meeting and talking to new people (especially if they bring a pint of Guinness to the party), so why not drop me a line.
This website is hand-carved from the finest standards-compliant XHTML, and is powered by WordPress v2.6 and a number of carefully selected plugins (see below). Most of the icons featured on the site are derived from the fantastic Crystal Clear icon set by Everaldo Coelho (with additional gems available here).
Plugins used on this site:
My name is Phil Smith, I currently live in Leeds (West Yorkshire), and I design and build websites. I like coffee, Guinness and the calm before the storm.
And you look lovely today, by the way.
Strictly speaking, I'm not currently available for freelance work but I'm always on the look out for interesting projects to collaborate on, so drop me a line.
