Does my logo look ugly / unprofessional?

<p >Hi Guys,</p>

<p >I am a photographer and I was thinking to design a new logo since my old one looks unprofessional on my eyes.</p>

<p >Here is my current logo:</p>

<p ><img src="http://www.studiokristo.com/wp-content/uploads/logo-sample2.jpg" alt="" /></p>

<p >Do you think that I should stick with this one or design a new logo?</p>

<p >For example, I have found this one online:</p>

<p><a href=" https://thumb1.shutterstock.com/display_pic_with_logo/3619364/415764853/stock-vector-square-camera-shutter-logo-box-photo-luxury-royal-metal-silver-415764853.jpg ">[link]</a></p>

<p >What do you think? Your thoughts are really appreciated.</p>

<p >Thanks,</p>

<p >Kristo</p>

<p></p>

<p > <i> <b>Moderator Note:</b> Image removed and link supplied, please do not post images that you did not make yourself as doing so contravenes Terms of Use and User Guidelines </i></p>

<p>I think that most of the time photographers don't do a good job of designing their own logos. Logo design is more than just making a cool symbol. If you can't/don't want to hire a designer, see if you can find a designer who is willing to do a work trade. The BoxCam symbol you showed is generic-the exact opposite of what you want a logo to be.</p>

<p>At the risk of seeming somewhat alcoholic if not cynical, on first sight your new logo reminded me of a lopsided martini glass. I also dislike the type font you have used. Entirely my personal observations, of course.</p>

<p>As a design architect, over 25 years and after much discussion about corporate marketing image matters with clients, staff and other architects, I came to the disappointing conclusion that almost everyone I dealt with did not pay much attention or place great emphasis on my logo. In fact, most didn't even notice it. </p>

<p>I am now retired from design architecture and setting up a new web site for my architectural photography work. There will not be any logo on the site, as I intend to let my images promote my personal 'brand' to my (professional not mainstream) clients.</p>

<p>All this said, put into your shoes I would go with John Tonai's good advice, and have someone design a logo for me. You should avoid the 'boxcam' look or wording, which to me comes over as amateurish.</p>

<p>Consider changing the type font and go with the martini glass or a new similar design in your new logo. A new type face, longer, leaner, with the name in capitals, I think, may greatly improve the image. I do not mean this unkindly, but with a business name like 'Studio Kristo', cute or fancy artwork would be best avoided. The simpler, the better. </p>

<p>My thoughts, for your consideration.</p>

<p>JDW</p>

<p> </p>

<p>There are websites such as fiverr.com where you can get graphic design work done for as little as $US 5.00. Of course, as with most things, you usually get what you pay for.</p>

<p> </p>

<p>Logos are an interesting subject. Their intent is to promote swift recognition in communications. The origins come from imprints, seals, or hallmarks representing individuals, organizations, and later, companies.</p>

<p>Logos are part of branding (which itself, harkens back to things like branding cattle).</p>

<p>Logos generally take one of two forms: A graphic icon that represents the company (like Apple or the Nike swoosh), or Logotype or Wordmark of the individual's name or company name (like Ford or FedEx).</p>

<p>Generally, an individual photographer will not get enough exposure of a graphic logo to make it instantly recognizable when seen on it's own.</p>

<p>When it comes to photography, people are buying the person behind the camera, therefore, I would advise promoting your name with a logotype treatment ... Kristo is a memorable name if you can make the logotype itself memorable.</p>

<p>Hire a good designer to accomplish that.</p>

<p> </p>