learning design
Out of context: Reply #5
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siteInspire is pretty good.
#1 lesson for anyone in any design profession (including architecture, where I come from): study the best.
Never, ever, assume that you "know best" and dismiss someone/some firm that is well respected. You might not like their style or approach, but understand what/why they are respected.
Both seasoned pros and beginners overlook this all to often and think that they are "original" or that they don't want to "contaminate" their ideas with other's work. Bullshit.
Suggestion - build a library (screen shots, etc.) of all those that are at the top of each profession (web, graphic, motion, etc.). Organize and study their work. Learn what others "see" and appreciate in each company, ask questions like you just did, read, read, read, read, study, study, study.
There are plenty of good books out there on design. As mentioned, don't worry about the technical skills, understand the fundamentals (grids, composition, etc.).
Personally, I think it is extremely difficult to really understand design without some (good) formal education. Critiques are a part of the process and, without them, you will not really know if your work is good/bad, could be improved, etc.
There are exceptions, of course, and a 'bad' crit is worse than none at all, though, so your girl friend's opinion could be more damaging than helpful.