A graphic designer specializes in the design of the environment by means of graphics. The profession suits those who are interested in drawing and computer science.
For successful work in the field of graphic designer important professional abilities and skills, as well as peculiarities of personal development. It is necessary not only to think creatively, but also to be able to work with a lot of information, organize your own time, set priorities, focus on customer requirements and know trends in the profession.
Professional skills are the first thing that employers pay attention to. A designer is required to understand the basics of composition, to work with color and typography (the art of designing text), and experience in developing web interfaces, packaging, photography, and video clips. In order to bring an idea to life one needs to know the basic package of professional programs such as Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, After Effects, programs for 3d editing and video editing, as well as understand the technological processes of production. In addition, knowledge of English is becoming very important in today’s world – the ability to explain oneself to a client, and understanding of professional literature.
The profession of 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 logos.
Space Design. A specialist in this field deals with the design of signs, signage, and plaques. If, barely glancing at the scheme of the mall, you immediately knew where to go – then the work is of high quality.
Font development. It is a special sphere because fonts should not only transmit a certain mood, but also be easy to read.
Package design. It is enough to look at the box to recognize the gadget from Apple. Isn’t this a handwriting of a brilliant designer?
The design of publications. Books, magazines, newspapers, business cards – all this ends up on the table of a specialist working in this field.
User interface (UI) design. A professional in this field makes sure that the application is not only aesthetically appealing, 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 can include the creation of all moving graphic elements. For example, the screensaver in the show of a popular YouTube-blogger.
Pros
One of the main pluses of the profession of graphic designer is considered the ability to start work without spending 3-6 years to get a diploma in the profile. Knowledge in the fine arts and computer technology will be needed, but the development in these areas can be engaged independently.
Other advantages of working as a graphic designer are:
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.
Creativity. Every poster, book or app is a mood, character and emotion to be seen. In general, you can’t do without inspiration.
Your schedule. Not every profession can boast a free schedule.
Minuses
Despite the increased interest on the part of young people in this direction, the profession has a number of disadvantages. Among them are the following:
High competition. Yes, yes, for the dream job you still have to fight.
Constant learning. Visual trends are changing almost along with the seasons. So you need to be prepared for constant training and courses.