A graphic designer creates concepts and designs along with sample layouts basing on the standard design concept and layout principles. They are also supposed to decide on the arrangement and size of the illustrative copy along with the size and style. The job of a graphic designer also includes using computer software skills for generating novel images, assemble, mark up and paste final layouts for printer, print charts, illustrations and graphs by using a computer. A senior graphic designer would also be responsible for reviewing all the final layouts prepared by the junior designers suggesting improvements in the process. They need to understand the project scope, allocate work, communicate with the client, make business proposals, conduct and attend trainings and edit artwork as per client specifications among other things.
Requirements
Academic
Graphic designing jobs have a lot of prerequisites that have to be fulfilled in order to be successful in this field. A basic degree is a must and apart from this a course on graphic designing is also a must, in order to be in the field of work successfully. The more the experience the more you stand a chance of getting into larger companies. Graphic Designers need to have a degree in any of the following subjects- graphic designing, 3D design, illustration, visual and fine arts, photography, communication or film and design.
Skill Sets
Some of the obvious drawing and technical skills that are necessary for a career in graphic designing are, Attention to detail and accurate analytical skills; Admirable communication skills for interpretation and negotiation with clients. They need superior presentation skills Confidence to clarify and advertise ideas to client's passion for designing unique artwork. They must also aptitude to work amidst the competitive culture in a team. Also, they must have the ability to manage time and the capacity to deal with quite a few projects at a time.
Training
Most of the learning in the field of graphic designing happens on the job. However, only the formal training us imparted using industry-specific software. A number of packages, training in which would be instrumental are, Quark, Xpress, FreeHand, Illustrator, Photoshop, 3D Studio, MaxAcrobat, Director, Dreamweaver, Flash.
Additional knowledge on TV special effects systems would also come in handy.
Prior Experience
Solid work experience is essential to climb the ladder in the field of graphic designing.
Employment Outlook
Career Prospects
The upward mobility in the profession of a graphic designer is possible in a couple of years with the first few ventures contributing to the overall work experience. The first year of job appears to be a little tedious. The development in this field depends on the frequency of job switching which helps widen the portfolio for the professionals.
The profession of a graphic designer is an extremely competitive one. This is only because the demand for skilled and experienced designers often outstrips the ample supply for the number of professionals. The employment prospects in the industry are fattening slowly and steadily as demands for superior quality of work is increasing day by day. Through the rise of computer software enabling companies have done away with a lot of job opportunities yet the demand for designers with advanced skills and dedication for creativity are still persisting.
Salaries
Typical starting salaries: $11,000 - $18,000
Typical salaries for senior designers with experience: $25,000 - $65,000
Typical salaries for senior designers: $25,000 - $45,000
Typical salaries for creative directors: $65,000
Typical earnings of an experienced freelancer: up To $40 an hour
Thus as mentioned earlier the careers in graphic pays off extremely well in the long run. Make sure to contribute the right amount of efforts and skills, in order to flourish well with this job. The best part is that there are a lot of opportunities that can branch out from the field of graphic designing. Make sure to fall in line and be up to date with the latest software, if making good money and living a good life out of it is what you want to do.
