Do you have flair for art? Do you class yourself as a creative person? Well, graphic design might be the career for you. What’s wonderful about graphic design is that there are so many avenues you can explore, and so many exciting projects that you can become part of.
What is Graphic Design?
Graphic designers are visual communicators. We basically create designs or images as a means of visual communication. We absorb all the information given to us and come up with a design that provides an answer to what the client is looking for. If this is something you excel at and you have a creative mind with good digital design skills then you will be wanting to work at a graphic design agency that could lead you to work with some major companies and clients on their graphics and branding.
Graphic design can range from providing designs on packaging, designing posters and book covers or in advertising. Your graphic design skills can also come in handy in web development for a range of industries. So, you never know, you could create a new logo for a luxury hotel in Liverpool or be the mind behind the next big brand logo.
What Skills Do You Need?
Do you have a good eye for detail and colour? Do you love fonts a little bit more than most people? Well, it looks like you might just have what it takes to become a graphic designer. You don’t have to be particularly gifted at drawing; however, it is important to note that graphic design is a skill that cannot be taught. It is a career that is based of ideas – and if you are full of them, you should most definitely go for them.
Do I Need a Degree?
While a lot of people do attend university for an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in graphic design, it is not really necessary. That’s not to say you shouldn’t do one if you’re just out of school – as it will give you the chance to learn about deadlines, about the industry and mix with like-minded people who may one day shape your career. It’s just that some of the best designers in the world never went to university – so there is no reason you can’t follow in their footsteps if university life isn’t for you. You will just have to learn about the industry and refine your craft as you go. There are so many design books to help you get started, there’s no reason why can’t start today. To become a good graphic designer, all you need to do is practice, practice, practice.
What Will I Need?
Don’t start out thinking you need a fancy computer to get started. You don’t. You simply need a dependable computer with good RAM size. Invest in a good graphic designing tool. You can check resources like https://serp.co/top-picks/best-graphic-design-tools/ to understand to select the right graphic designing tool.
You will, however, need to create a portfolio. Employers will want to know you have enough skill to actually do the job, so a portfolio is the only way to convince them that you have what it takes. Also try to include some client testimonials once you’ve done a bit of work.
There are so many graphic design roads you can head down. You seriously need to consider which path is best for you. Are you an illustrator? A web designer or more of a package designer? Think about your options carefully, or try to identify your strengths as you learn.
