I’ve had the pleasure of photographing viewbooks designed by NCSDO, a Baltimore-based brand development agency renowned for its work with prestigious universities. These viewbooks are more than just visual representations; they’re strategic tools that communicate a university’s identity and values.

About North Charles Street Design Organization (NCSDO)

North Charles Street Design Organization (NCSDO), located in Baltimore, specializes in brand development and design, particularly for educational institutions. Their focus is on creating powerful expressions of identity through viewbooks and other materials, blending compelling visuals with strategic narratives. Their expertise in branding has made them a trusted partner for top universities like Stanford, Barnard, and Sarah Lawrence​(

The Importance of These Photos

Documenting these viewbooks is about more than just capturing images; it’s about telling a story. The photos highlight the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each publication, showcasing how NCSDO’s designs bring a university’s essence to life. This collaboration between NCSDO, the photography team, and the universities ensures that each viewbook serves as a true reflection of the institution’s character and values.

These images do more than just display beautiful designs; they capture the strategic thinking and creative effort behind every page. The resulting viewbooks are not only visually stunning but also deeply meaningful, reflecting the spirit of the institutions they represent.

Explore more sessions with NCSDO to dive deeper into their creative process and see how they bring academic brands to life.