To many, the job title 'graphic designer' is enigmatic. Often, working graphic designers find that even friends and close family don't fully grasp what they do. However, even if you're unsure what graphic design entails, you might already be passionate about its elements. Have you always been captivated by art and design? Do you frequently admire the aesthetics of billboards, magazines, and websites? Perhaps you've thought about a career in art but don't know where to begin. The reality is, many people discover graphic design by accident. But it doesn't have to be that way. With the right guidance and knowledge, you can transform your love for creativity into a rewarding and lucrative career.
A great starting point is to get answers to your questions about graphic design and how to get involved.
1. What does a graphic designer do?
In the simplest terms, a graphic designer combines text and images to serve a specific function. Whether it's a printed brochure or a digital app, the key aspect is its functionality. Artists create art for its own sake, but graphic designers produce content with a clear and defined purpose. Therefore, while art is judged subjectively, graphic design can be evaluated objectively: did it fulfill its intended purpose? In practice, a graphic designer typically works with various media, both print and digital, to create designs that meet the needs of clients or employers. Their daily tasks might include designing logos, icons, brochures, flyers, posters, packaging, product labels, website layouts, and app interfaces.
2. How do I become a graphic designer?
Becoming a graphic designer requires both education and practice; one is incomplete without the other. You need to study design theory fundamentals to understand the principles, but merely following lessons won't be sufficient. Like learning to drive a car, you'll develop most of your skills through hands-on experience. While some professional graphic designers are self-taught, most have taken some form of course. This might be a degree program, but it doesn't have to be.
3. How do I become a graphic designer without a degree?
You can still become a graphic designer without pursuing a traditional degree. Many graphic designers have built successful careers through self-study, utilizing online tutorials, books, training videos, and plenty of trial-and-error. For those seeking a more structured approach but not wanting to commit to a four year university program, short, intensive courses are available.
4. What is the typical career path of a graphic designer?
As a graphic designer, you'll typically begin your career as a junior graphic designer. The term 'junior' refers to your level of experience, not your age. In this role, you'll work under the guidance of senior designers for about one to three years.
The next level is often referred to as middleweight graphic designer, mid-level designer, or simply 'graphic designer.' At this stage, you'll handle more complex projects independently and may supervise and train junior designers. Expect to spend around three to five years at this level. Following this, you can advance to a senior graphic designer position. In this role, you'll manage projects from start to finish, lead teams, communicate directly with clients, and oversee timelines and budgets. Senior graphic designer is the highest level in the graphic design career path. From here, you might move into more strategic and executive roles such as art director, creative director, or even CEO, or you might choose to start your own design studio.
5. Which software do graphic designers use?
You don't need to use specific software to create graphic designs; the results matter more than the tools you use. However, using the same software as your colleagues can facilitate collaboration. Design studios typically expect familiarity with Adobe Creative Cloud tools, which require a subscription and include Photoshop, Illustrator, and After Effects.
6. Where do most graphic designers work?
Graphic designers work in a variety of settings. The most visible are design studios, or design agencies, which offer services to clients. Alternatively, many large companies have in-house design teams dedicated to creating designs exclusively for that company. Graphic designers are also frequently employed by book and magazine publishers, advertising agencies, and media companies like broadcasters. Some work in education, often part-time, teaching design courses at universities, colleges, and other educational institutions. Additionally, many graphic designers work as freelancers, either from home or in co-working spaces.
7. What courses are available to learn graphic design?
Many courses are available for learning graphic design, ranging from traditional in-person classes to online courses and tutorials. At the opposite end, you can pursue a four year graphic design degree at a university. It's important to choose your course carefully, as some traditional design degrees may focus more on theory than on practical, real-world skills.
8. What are hiring managers looking for in a graphic design portfolio?
When managers review a graphic design portfolio, they typically don't have much time to spend on it. Therefore, they want to see evidence of strong design work across various areas, presented clearly and simply. However, a good portfolio is more than just a collection of attractive images. Managers are often interested in the process behind the final artwork. Including text descriptions of your role in each project, as well as behind-the-scenes images, can be very helpful. This additional context demonstrates your problem-solving skills and thought processes, giving a fuller picture of your capabilities.
Comentarios