What is Graphic Recording?

Graphic recording - often called “scribing” or “live sketching” - is the real-time translation of spoken words, combining key concepts with illustrated metaphors and icons, to create a visual narrative.

It involves active listening and the rapid synthesis of complex concepts into impactful illustrations that enhance understanding and retention.

Illustration showing a communication process with a speech bubble, ear, brain, and a hand drawing. Text reads: 'You talk...' and '...while I listen, think and draw!' Arrows indicate the flow between talking and drawing.

Graphic Recording is a powerful visual tool that transforms spoken content into rich, real-time illustrations — making it ideal for keynotes, panel discussions, conferences, in-person events, virtual sessions, collaborative workshops and so much more.

Graphic Recording doesn’t just document what’s said - it brings ideas and conversations to life in a
clear, memorable way.

Whether you’re unpacking strategy, exploring innovation or having an important conversation, graphic recording adds a dynamic layer that turns passive audiences into engaged participants. It creates a visual legacy of your event, helps people see connections, and
ensures that your valuable messages don’t just float away — they stick!

Woman speaking at a conference, surrounded by a graphic recording about human connection in marketing, highlighting empathy gaps between brands and customers, and the role of AI in research.
Screenshot of a virtual meeting with a governance cadence flowchart. Split screen shows participants with cartoon graphics and text about SAP leadership training.
Group of four people sitting in red chairs, engaged in a discussion in an office setting with a large window view. A screen displays colorful motivational words like 'Vision,' 'Leadership,' 'Passion,' and 'Understanding,' surrounded by illustrations. Office plants and bookshelves are visible in the background.
Infographic depicting production planning process with various elements such as demand management, capacity planning, and manual sequencing. Includes references to SAP, Excel, packaging constraints, review teams, and raw materials. Highlights labor constraints, SKU variety, and planning opportunities.
Infographic titled 'The 5 C's of How to Communicate Effectively Under Pressure' by Leah Mether, focusing on choice, control, communication, courage, and consideration. Features quotes and insights on managing stress, emotional intelligence, empathy, and effective communication.

“Kathryn’s graphic recording of my talk on Human Connection at the Melbourne Marketing Forum was a showstopper. Quietly working in the background, she captured the essence of the session in one stunning visual. Attendees were amazed—and couldn’t wait to take photos with it. A brilliant way to boost engagement and leave a lasting impression.”

Dr.Maria Camacho
Principal
Maria Camacho

Graphic recording titled 'Driven by Purpose: Leadership in Uncertain Times' features keynotes from Christine Holgate, Ronni Kahn AO, and Brad Banducci. Topics include courage, commitment, shared purpose, and leadership strategies. Emphasizes trust, integrity, respect, and community building. Discusses sustainability, future of work, and nutrition for personal health. Designed by Kathryn Baluch.
Illustrative infographic featuring design thinking, creativity, AI, and advertising. It includes quotes and tips on storytelling, the importance of imagination, originality in education, and business strategies. There's a photo of a person, references to policy and education, and mention of RMIT Online.

“Wow - Kathryn is a genius! While I delivered a one-hour live webinar, she was busy creating an incredible graphic recording of the event and the finished product blew my mind. I can't believe she managed to capture so much detail in one drawing so quickly, AND in a way that's both engaging and makes sense.”

Leah Mether
Communicaton speaker & trainer
Leah Mether Pty Ltd

Illustrated infographic titled 'Nerves of Steel with Julia Steel', featuring quotes, a diagram on courage and power dynamics, and mentions of public figures. Includes handwritten text and various design elements to explain concepts like commitment, clarity, and choosing attitudes in challenging situations. Styled in a pink, white, and black color scheme.

“Kathryn captured many of the sessions at the VID19 Conference and every one of them was absolutely stunning. Such a great way to capture sessions online or in person.”

Julia Steel
Director, Strategic Programs
Ausnet

Visual recording of "Partnerships & Quality: A Chancellor’s Perspective" by Peter Varghese, covering themes like educational partnerships between India and Australia, global learning networks, low carbon energy, innovation, collaboration, ecosystems, and university partnerships with Boeing. Includes concepts like philanthropy, alumni relationships, and reducing fossil fuels. Contains illustrations of flags, arrows, bees, and hearts.

“I had the pleasure of working with Kathryn on the Women in Leadership Study Tour in 2021. Kathryn used her creative talent to tune into all presentations and discussions, capturing the key insights and messages from each and bringing key messages to life in graphic visuals. Her creative art is powerful and impactful.”

Graphic recording is not just
an experience, it’s also a product

Conference room with a speaker at the podium and a large screen displaying a graphic titled 'Emerging Trends in the Global Economy' at the Australian Grains Industry Conference 2019.
Woman standing between three illustrated posters on easels in an indoor setting. The posters display colorful text and images about climate change, global economy trends, and demographics.

Mediums I work in

Woman taking notes on a tablet during a conference, seated at a table with a laptop and pink water bottle, in a crowded auditorium.

Digital

A woman is drawing on a whiteboard at a conference, illustrating a talk by Paul Cobban about the "World's First Invisible Bank" and design thinking. The room is filled with attendees, and a large screen displays a video of the event.

Paper

Woman drawing on a whiteboard with diagrams and text.

Whiteboard