Graphic design is all around us: on billboards, websites, logos, and social media. It’s a vital tool for businesses to communicate their message visually.
If you’re passionate about creativity and want to turn that into a career, graphic design might be the perfect path for you.
In this article, you will learn what it means to be a graphic designer and how to become one.
What is Graphic Design?
According to the Oxford Dictionary, graphic design is the practice of using visual elements like images and text to communicate ideas. Whether the elements are used together or separately, the goal remains the same: conveying a message through visuals.
While the term “graphic design” was coined in 1922 by typographer William A. Dwiggins, the practice itself has been around for centuries, tracing back to ancient cave paintings where people used visuals to convey messages.
Today, graphic design continues to play a vital role in communication, using various visual elements to express ideas or share information in an effective and engaging way.
What Does a Graphic Designer Do?
A graphic designer’s job is to create visual content that speaks to an audience, typically on behalf of a business or brand. Using elements like shapes, colors, images, and typography, graphic designers craft visual pieces that can range from logos and posters to social media ads, banners, and even billboards.
To create these visuals, graphic designers rely on tools like Canva, Adobe Photoshop, CorelDRAW, and Figma, each offering its own unique set of features to bring ideas to life.
How to Become a Graphic Designer
1. Take a Graphic Design Course
The first step to becoming a graphic designer is learning the ropes. Enroll in a graphic design course, whether it’s online or in-person, to gain a foundational understanding of design principles, color theory, and visual hierarchy. You can also supplement your learning by reading books that dive deeper into specific areas of graphic design.
Some popular platforms where you can find graphic design courses include Coursera, Udemy, and Skillshare.
2. Hone Your Design Skills
Once you’ve taken a course, it’s time to practice what you’ve learned. The old saying “practice makes perfect” rings especially true in graphic design. The more you design, the more refined your skills will become. Consistent practice helps you understand how to apply design principles effectively and develop your own unique style.
You can practice by designing posters, mock logos, or even re-imagining existing branding materials to get a feel for the different aspects of design.
3. Build a Portfolio
Your portfolio is your ticket to landing jobs. The good news? Graphic design is one of those fields where building a portfolio is relatively straightforward.
Start by creating sample designs or mockups for companies or industries you’d like to work with. Even if they’re not for real clients, these mockups will show potential employers or clients what you’re capable of.
You can use platforms like Behance, Canva, and Dribbble to showcase your designs in a professional manner. Just be sure to clearly label them as mockups to avoid any confusion about whether they’re real projects or conceptual designs.
4. Apply for Jobs
With your portfolio in hand, it’s time to start looking for jobs. There are plenty of platforms where you can find graphic design opportunities, such as LinkedIn, Indeed, and Upwork. You can also directly reach out to companies you admire to see if they have any openings for designers.
Networking is another important part of this step. Building relationships with other designers and potential clients can help you uncover job leads that might not be listed publicly.
5. Niche Down
Once you gain some experience and start receiving steady projects, consider specializing in a particular area of graphic design. Whether it’s branding, packaging, or digital ads, becoming a specialist in a niche can help you stand out and demand higher rates.
Clients often pay more for specialized services, as they perceive niche designers to have expert-level knowledge in their chosen field. Instead of being a jack of all trades, focus on mastering a few areas and watch your value rise in the market.
Conclusion
Being a graphic designer is a fun and creative endeavour that allows you to unleash your artistic side and work on interesting projects. By following these steps: educating yourself, honing your skills, building a portfolio, seeking job opportunities, and niching down, you’ll be well on your way to establishing a fulfilling career in graphic design.
