Social Studies is a character-driven documentary series that follows the lives of high school students in Los Angeles – exploring identity, adolescence, and the pervasive influence of social media. I served as Lead Designer for the main title sequence, working closely with Creative Director Rob Foster to create a visual introduction that is both stylistically bold and conceptually grounded in the show’s themes.

We developed a stylized digital map of LA, using an isometric design language to anchor each teen in their own unique corner of the city. Each character is introduced through a custom avatar, surrounded by hand-drawn landmarks and props specific to their world, bringing their stories to life through design.

Capturing individuality was essential. I designed each avatar to reflect real personal traits, facial features, fashion sense, and character – while still adhering to a cohesive art direction. The tension between these bespoke designs and the uniform visual structure of the map reflects the larger dynamic at play in the series.

The sequence reflects the reality of growing up online: the push and pull between self-expression and social conformity. It’s a visual metaphor for the way teens try to stand out, while simultaneously trying to belong, in a culture shaped by algorithms, followers, and filters.

More than just a title, this sequence sets the tone for the show, a digital snapshot of a generation defining identity in the shadow of the internet.

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Full credits available on heycarbon.com