A graphic designer is a specialist who deals with the design of the environment by means of graphics. The profession is suitable for those who are interested in drawing and computer science.
Who is a graphic designer?
A graphic designer (from the English design – drawing, sketch, idea.) Specializes in the design of the environment by means of graphics. The profession is suitable for those who are interested in drawing and computer science.
For successful work in the field of graphic design, professional skills, as well as features of personal development, are important. It is necessary not only to think creatively, but also to be able to work with a large amount of information, organize your own time, set priorities, focus on client requirements and know the trends in the profession.
Professional skills are the first thing employers pay attention to. Here, the designer needs to understand the basics of composition, the ability to work with color, typography (the art of text design), experience in developing web interfaces, packaging, photography, and videos. In order to bring the idea to life, you need to know the main package of professional programs such as Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, After Effects, 3d editing and video editing programs, as well as understand the production processes. In addition, in the modern world, knowledge of the English language is becoming very important – the ability to communicate with a client, an understanding of professional literature.
Specializations
The profession of a graphic designer has several directions, and one designer can work either in one of them, or combine two or three directions.
Branding. Creating a recognizable brand image: from colors to logo.
Marketing design. In 2018, the Bushe bakery chain launched a memorable advertising campaign. The city became a member. The yellow wall of the house turned into a loaf of bread, and the graffiti-painted fence into a cake. In general, the designer tried so hard that he immediately wanted to buy a couple of buns.
Space design. A specialist in this field is engaged in the development of signs, pointers, plates. If, having barely looked at the scheme of the shopping center, you immediately understood where to go, it means that the work is of high quality.
Font development. A special area, because the font should not only convey a certain mood, but also be readable.
Packaging design. Just look at the box to recognize the gadget from Apple. Isn’t this the handwriting of a brilliant designer?
Publication design. Books, magazines, newspapers, business cards – all this falls on the table of a specialist working in this field.
Design of user interfaces (UI). A professional in this field makes sure that the application is not only aesthetically attractive, but also functional and convenient. Therefore, often one of the requirements for UI designers is knowledge of the technical side – that is, programming languages.
Motion design. This includes the creation of all moving graphic elements. For example, screensavers in the show of a popular YouTube blogger.
Pros of being a graphic designer
One of the main advantages of the profession of a graphic designer is the opportunity to start working without spending 3-6 years to get a diploma in the profile. Knowledge in the visual arts and computer technology will be needed, but you can do development in these areas on your own.
Other benefits of working as a graphic designer include:
- High demand, because cool design is one of the ingredients for creating a successful business.
- Decent salary. The thicker the portfolio of successful cases, the greater the amount.
- Creation. Each poster, book or application is a mood, character and emotion that can be seen. In general, you can not do without inspiration.
- Your schedule. Not every profession can boast a free schedule.
Cons of being a graphic designer
Despite the increased interest of young people in this area, the profession has a number of disadvantages. Among them are the following:
High competition. Yes, yes, you still have to fight for the dream job.
Constant learning. Visual trends change almost with the seasons. So you need to be ready for constant training and courses.
Where to get an education
A graphic designer needs to learn how to transfer the images created in his head to the screen of a working monitor. Therefore, he must know the types of artistic techniques, the rules for creating a composition, have a full arsenal of knowledge and skills of a real artist. Additionally, you will have to master the rules for using a number of computer programs, graphic editors. All of the above can be learned. The main thing is to never stop there, because the list of professional tools is constantly expanding.
There are a large number of training programs, trainings, courses and seminars on the market of educational services. We do not recommend focusing on one approach, but it is better to try to combine and study in different directions and schools. This will increase your chances of getting your dream job.
There are several ways to obtain such a specialty:
- Home schooling.
- Various courses.
- Participation in seminars.
- Education in art schools.
- Education in professional institutions (technical school, college, college).
- Education in higher educational institutions.
It should be borne in mind that when looking for a job, the customer will make requirements for the applicant in terms of having a higher education. Therefore, the need for a diploma in this specialization is mandatory.
Educational establishments
The educational process lasts at least six years, during which students receive valuable knowledge and skills.
Courses
You will need at least six weeks to complete the course. Similar educational programs are offered by various design organizations, higher educational institutions. You can study face-to-face or remotely. They can get the necessary knowledge in the field of graphic design, as well as students will be given answers to their questions and ways to get highly paid orders.
Demand
Graphic designers work in design studios, branding and advertising agencies, publishing houses, and any public and private firms that prefer to have their own designer on staff.
Prospects for the future
Right now they are looking for more than one and a half thousand designers. And demand will continue to grow along with the development of the service sector. Moreover, new trends are emerging in design. For example, UX design, or user experience design.