What Skills Do I Need to Become a Graphic Designer?
Are you an artistic type of person? Do you like to work with computers? Do you enjoy taking other people's ideas and turning them into something more tangible? If so, you might enjoy a career in graphic design.
Graphic designers use their artistic abilities to create graphics for printed and electronic media. They help businesses establish their brands by creating logos and other visual representations of their ideas and products. They may also handle layout for web pages and printed materials, and they may design fonts for particular applications.
Graphic designers have a wealth of job opportunities that they may pursue, but many choose to work as freelancers or start their own design firms. Graphic design is a sound career choice, because there is always a need for it.
Are you interested? Here is a list of skills and qualifications that graphic designers need.
* Most graphic design positions require applicants to have a Bachelor's degree or higher in graphic design. Some employers looking to fill technical and assistant designer positions, however, allow applicants with Associate's degrees. If you're planning on freelancing no degree is necessary, but having a formal education makes it much easier to get clients.
* Artistic ability is very important in graphic design. Prospective design students must usually submit portfolios for consideration before they can be accepted into a program.
* Ability to work with graphic design software is a must. Students at graphic design schools will learn how to use some of the most popular programs. But after your schooling is completed, it's up to you to stay current on new versions and entirely new software.
* Attention to detail is crucial in graphic design. It's the little things that can make or break a project.
* Graphic designers should be highly motivated self-starters who are able to work independently. They must be able to work within deadlines and budget their time.
* Graphic designers should be good communicators. They need to know the right questions to ask clients, and they need to be able to translate their ideas into art.
* An eye for style is helpful to the graphic designer. Design techniques and trends are constantly evolving, and expectations are constantly changing. Moving along the flow of the industry is very important.
Being a graphic designer requires a love for design and the willingness to keep your skills current throughout your career. But it can be a very rewarding pursuit. High quality, original graphics can help propel a business to the top, and they can make a good web page outstanding. If you are creative and want a career with great potential, graphic design might be for you.