An Online Guide to Starting a Career in Graphic Design

The field of graphic design is an extremely dynamic and creative one, combining the talent of an artist with the knowledge of new technologies, web design, marketing, and communication. Many companies both large and small now enlist the help of graphic designers to help create things like logos, business cards, magazine or newspaper advertisements, brochures, websites, and commercials. Graphic design is also often referred to as visual communication. Most job seeking candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in the field as well as a substantial portfolio so that potential employers can get a better idea of the candidate’s talents and style. Often manufacturers solicit graphic designers to assist with things like product packaging in order to help create more substantial branding that allows them to stand out from their competitors. The first thing people see or notice is the way a product, website, or advertisement looks, so the use of graphic design is integral to success. The average salary of a graphic designer is approximately $43,000 per year, or around $20 per hour. Salaries can vary, however, depending on a number of factors including experience, the type of designs provided, and having a long and positive track record. Many different types of employers use graphic designers including website hosting companies, food manufacturers, car makers, the government sector, and schools and hospitals. The sky is the limit for graphic designers since their creativity can be used for such a wide variety of different things within the marketing realm. The current job market for graphic designers is very good, with an average growth rate of 13 percent over the last several years. While most styles of original graphic design was once created by hand, computer programs today are often used, so a working knowledge of these programs is absolutely imperative. Aside from the ability to be extremely creative, graphic designers should have a good understanding of marketing and how the graphic designs they create play an important part in this process. Designing quality images are essential to helping companies, charities, and other organizations become a standout from their competitors. Use of modern day computer programs allows designers to think outside the box and to create new, more bold and interesting forms of design. Often, focus groups and user testing is utilized by companies to get an idea of whether or not their current designs are effective. Graphic designers need to be able to change and edit their current designs as needed to fit the requirements of the marketer and its audience. In order to secure a good career in graphic design, a portfolio is extremely important. For many years, a large black binder or folder was used to display the artist’s work. This folder was brought to clients, potential employers, and customers in order to showcase the designer’s work. In today’s more virtual world, graphic design portfolios are now almost completely either online or stored on a disk for display. History of Graphic Design

• An Introduction to the History of Graphic Design
• The History of Graphic Design and its Audiences
• The History of Visual Communication
• Graphic Design History
• History of Graphic Design Timeline

Graphic Design Schooling

• Academy of Art School of Graphic Design
• Teach Yourself Graphic Design
• Top Online Graphic Design Schools
• Platt College San Diego Graphic Design School
• The Shillington School
• Graphic Design Degree Programs
• Graphic Design Major Requirements
• What Can I do with a Major in Graphic Design?

Graphic Design Careers and Job Outlook

• Occupational Outlook for Graphic Designers
• 25 Graphic Designer Career Preparation Tips
• A Day in the Life of a Graphic Designer
• Career Planning for a Position in Graphic Design
• Is a Career in Graphic Design Right for You?
• Salary Information
• List of Graphic Design Jobs

Professional Organizations for Graphic Designers

• The Graphic Artists Guild
• The Color Marketing Group
• The Design Council
• The Society for News Design
• The Grolier Club
• The Society of Illustrators, Artists, and Designers
• The Society of Publication Designers
• The Society for Environmental Graphic Design

Tools, Tips, and Tricks for Graphic Designers

• 20 Essential Tools for Graphic and Web Designers
• 10 PC Productivity Tools for Graphic Designers
• Designers Toolbox
• Tutorials, Articles, Tips, and Tricks for Graphic Designers
• Graphic Design 101
• 50 Totally Free Lessons in Graphic Design Theory

Graphic Design Pages for Kids

• Kids Can Learn Graphic Designing, Too!
• A Digital Dreamer: Information, Jobs, and Forums for Graphic Design
• Kids Think Design
• Effective Use of Color and Graphics in Applications for Children
• Internal Drive: Online Graphic Design Courses for Teens

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