Graphic designers are always in demand and have a wide range of career options to choose from.
The job market for graphic designers is very competitive, so it’s important that you make sure you stand out from the crowd.
In this article, we’ll be taking you through everything you need to know about becoming a graphic designer and the demand for them in the market.
Graphic Designer Job Description – What Does It Involve?
The graphic designer’s job description can vary greatly depending on what type of work they do.
Some graphic designers may be responsible for designing logos, brochures, advertisements, websites, or other printed materials while others will specialize in creating 3D models, animations, or video games.
Regardless of their specialization, most graphic designers need to know how to use Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Flash, Dreamweaver, Fireworks, HTML5, CSS3, and JavaScript.
They also need to understand page layout software such as QuarkXpress, PageMaker, Framemaker, etc., and be familiar with other design programs like CorelDraw, Freehand, etc.
A graphic designer creates visual images using computer graphics software.
They may also create layouts, illustrations, charts, graphs, photographs, videos, and other types of media.
Graphic designers may specialize in one area of design, or they may be generalists who have a broad knowledge of different areas of design.
A typical day for a graphic designer includes creating new designs; editing existing designs; researching information; reviewing print materials; writing specifications; managing projects; communicating with clients, and collaborating with colleagues.
How To Become A Graphic Design Expert?
There are many ways to become an expert in graphic design. You could enroll in a graphic design course at your local community college or university.
If you already have some experience working in graphic design, then you could consider taking online courses through Coursera or Udemy.
You could also take advantage of free tutorials available online.
What Is Graphic Designing, And How Can I Get Started?
A graphic designer is someone who creates visual images for print media, websites, marketing campaigns, packaging, advertising, and any other medium where visuals play a major role.
There are two main types of graphic designers: those who create static graphics (such as logos) and those who create interactive designs.
A graphic designer must possess excellent communication skills since he/she has to explain his/her ideas to clients and other team members.
He/She should also be able to think creatively and solve problems effectively.
In addition, a graphic designer needs to be well-organized and detail-oriented. He/She should be able to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
In order to become a successful graphic designer, one must first master basic computer skills.
This includes using Microsoft Office applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher, Access, Outlook, etc.
He/She should have knowledge of various design programs including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
He/She should also be proficient in website creation tools such as Dreamweaver, Frontpage, Expression Web, etc.
He/ She should be able to create layouts using page layout software such as PageMaker, Quark Xpress, Framemaker, etc., as well as use page templates.
He/She should also be knowledgeable about different fonts, colors, and typography.
He/She should understand the principles of color theory, typographic hierarchy, and composition.
Graphic Designer Job Description – What Does It Involve?
The graphic designer job description varies from company to company. However, there are certain common duties that all graphic designers perform. These include:
- Creating original artwork such as logos, posters, flyers, etc.
- Developing and maintaining corporate identity guidelines
- Creating advertisements, brochures, catalogs, business cards, etc.
- Developed and maintained the look and feel of the company’s website
- Responsible for developing new products and services
- Assisting in the development of promotional material
- Developing and implementing marketing strategies
- Providing creative direction for the overall look and feel of the organization
- Provide feedback on client work
- Writing proposals
- Preparing budgets
- Working with printers, photographers, illustrators, copywriters, etc.
- Managing project timelines
- Maintaining confidentiality
- Performing research
- Analyzing data
- Researching trends
- Interacting with clients
How To Become A Graphic Designer?
If you want to become a graphic designer, you can do so by completing an accredited degree program or enrolling in a nondegree certificate program.
You will need to complete at least four years of college before you can apply for licensure. The following degrees are most commonly offered by colleges and universities:
- Bachelor of Arts Degree in Graphic Design
- Bachelor of Science Degree in Graphic Design
- Master of Fine Arts Degree in Graphic Design (MFA)
- Master of Business Administration Degree in Graphic Design (MSBA)
- Master of Computer Applications Degree in Graphic Design (MCAD)
- Certificate Programs in Graphic Design
There are many online certificate programs available. Some of these include:
- Web Design Certificate Program
- Digital Photography Certificate Program
- Adobe Creative Suite Certification Training
- Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) Certifications
With the advent of technology, it is now possible to learn everything about computers without having to attend college.
There are several websites that offer free tutorials on how to use various software packages.
For example, if you want to learn more about Adobe Photoshop, visit www.photoshopforbeginners.com. This site offers free tutorials for beginners.
What Is A Graphic Designer’s Salary?
According to PayScale.com, the average annual salary for graphic designers is $53,000. Salaries vary depending upon location, experience level, education level, and industry.
Income Potential
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median income for graphic designers was $44,090 in 2016.
In addition, the BLS reported that the top 10 percent earned over $74,400 per year.
Job Outlook
The BLS reports that employment opportunities for graphic designers are expected to grow by 12% between 2012 and 2022.
Are Graphic Designers In Demand?
Graphic design is one of the fastest-growing careers in America. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, there were approximately 3 million jobs available in 2015.
As the world becomes increasingly digitalized, graphic designers are needed to create all types of visual content including logos, advertisements, brochures, posters, website designs, and much more.
Graphic designers must be able to communicate effectively and collaborate well with other professionals such as web developers, writers, marketers, and others.
They also have to be creative problem solvers who are able to come up with unique solutions to problems.
Conclusion
In conclusion, graphic designers are becoming increasingly in demand as businesses become more digitalized and are having to find new ways to stand out in their respective markets.
