Make an IMPACT with Live Graphic Recording

Julia Bakay
May 13
4 min read

Updated: Sep 11

How to make Live Graphic Recording (even more) impactful?

So you've hired a Graphic Recording artist for your event - that's amazing!

One thing's for sure: by the end, you'll have a visual summary of your key takeaways. While this is a fantastic keepsake, the product itself is just one of the many benefits of Graphic Recording.

In this article, I'll share some ways you can leverage this magical tool to maximize its impact - extending its value far beyond your event.

Beautiful Examples of Graphic Recording, as a form of Art

'The Fine Art of Graphic Recording', as I like to call it. Live Graphic Recording, especially with the reach of social media, can help an event extend far beyond the room - these visuals often need to speak to – and engage – people who weren’t even at the event. Personally, I’m always drawn in by a graphic recording (or any piece of art, really) when it’s tasteful, harmonious, and just makes you feel good...

Therefore, I believe that creating an aesthetically appealing piece will not only have a stronger impact on people's memory, but can foster greater engagement.

Graphic Recording Example — Tech Justice Closing Gathering

Graphic Recording Example - About AI — EDUCON Engineering Conference

Graphic Recording Example - Fashion Industry — Source Fashion

Read on to see more Graphic Recording Examples, or explore the various Styles Available for Live Illustration.

Announce that you'll have Graphic Recording at the Event

Graphic Recording is something attendees can look forward to, and it signals that this is a significant event - one worth capturing in a unique and engaging way.

Introduce your Graphic Recording Artist

Julia Bakay industry leading Graphic Recording Artist

In my early days as a Graphic Recording artist, I didn't think to suggest that they announce me at the start of the event - I perhaps assumed it was all self-explanatory, and that everyone will know that I'm Graphic Recording at the event.

I found out that it's quite the contrary - people usually have no idea what I'm doing there - regardless of whether I'm joining in-person or remotely, it's still confusing.

Once you explain who I am, they'll appreciate the process for its human, real-time, and personal nature! They'll also feel more encouraged to walk up to me or follow up with me about my work, and the process, and I love that.

Explain what Graphic Recording is!

I've also come to learn that 'we have Julia Bakay here, our Graphic Recording Artist' doesn't suffice by itself. Most people I meet have never come across this niche service before, so it's really important to explain what this is, how it happens, and when they'll see or receive the final visual.

I'd suggest an intro like this:

"We have Julia Bakay here, our Graphic Recording Artist!

She'll be listening throughout the event and capturing the essence in notes and illustrations. By the end of our session, she'll have built a Visual Map of the key takeaways which we'll share with you on the big screen (stay tuned), and send to you following the event!

With any questions or thoughts feel free to approach (or message) Julia."

Make sure to use your Brand Colors when Graphic Recording

The whole conference will likely be dressed in your colours, and it's SO powerful when the Graphic Recording reflects that as well! That's why I start my process by creating a branded visual template and some visual samples - to make sure that the Graphic Recording aligns with and emphasizes your brand! Using your colours and a style that matches your event, we can strengthen your brand and make your message even more powerful and memorable.

Have BIG Screens Ready to share the Graphic Records

If you're in a room together (and I may be joining online), make sure that you have the biggest screen possible to project the final visual on! It will be much more stunning than sharing it on a small TV or computer screen. Depending on your room, I also recommend turning the lights off for the big reveal, so that the Graphic Recording shows in it's true colours.

Give people space to appreciate the Graphic Recordings

Whether you're there in person or it's an online event, make sure the Graphic Recording is up on the big screen for a while - people will need time to take it in. It can become a brilliant touchstone for conversation and new ideas, and a beautiful background for taking some group photos!

Use the Graphic Notes to Summarize the Event

Often the Graphic Recording is revealed during the closing remarks, so it's a perfect tool to summarize what happened throughout your day or session. Repeating the key takeaways while pointing at the relevant part of the graphic also helps the many visual learners amongst us to take it all in for a long time.

Extend the Impact of Graphic Recording Beyond the Day

The Graphic Recordings aren’t just for the moment - they become valuable visual assets you can use post-event. Share them in newsletters or on social media to help attendees revisit key conversations, reflect on the experience, and stay engaged. Many organizations also print them for office walls, event reports, or internal presentations to keep the energy and insights alive. If you’d like more ideas, check out my article “How Clients Use Graphic Recordings After the Event.”