How to Become a Graphic Designer

Graphic designers, also called graphic artists, spend their days at the computer creating enticing messages to be used in a variety of print and electronic media. The job involves hard work and dedication, and requires that you keep up with all the latest graphic design programs and media tools and outlets. If you are an aspiring graphic designer and believe you have the drive and ability to succeed, then continue reading this guide on how to become a graphic designer.

Introduction
- Does your idea of fun involve a Saturday afternoon spent in front of the computer tinkering with creative image tools and learning how to use the latest graphic design programs? Do you love working with visual arts, using images and text to communicate ideas and messages via electronic or print media? When you see a compelling advertisement in a magazine do you wish you had created it? If so, chances are you have thought about a career in graphic design. For more information, continue reading this guide on how to become a graphic designer.
How to Become a Graphic Designer Video

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Step 1: What does a Graphic Designer Do?
- Graphic designers are also referred to as graphic artists, and spend their days behind the computer creating new visual means to express messages and ideas to the public. They convey these ideas using techniques such as:
1. Animation
2. Illustration
3. Photography
4. Layout design
- Graphic designers have their work on display in a variety of publications and through other various communication mediums. This includes:
1. Newspapers
2. Magazines
3. Corporate reports
4. Marketing brochures
5. Promotional displays
6. Billboards
Step 2: What Experience Do I Need To Become a Graphic Designer?
- Gaining experience and knowledge about graphic design is essential for those serious about success. You can start your studies early while still in junior high or high school. You should:
1. Read all you can about graphic design.
2. Learn all you can about the latest graphic design programs. Get to know these programs and practice building your own graphics in them. This helps you both learn about graphic design while at the same time allowing you to hone new skills and gain a wealth of experience.
3. Utilize the internet. Go to websites devoted to the latest graphic design techniques and learn all you can. You may also want to periodically check the websites for the best graphic design schools. They will often discuss some of the latest information in the field.
- Always keep learning and gaining experience. Graphic design is one of those fields of study that is constantly changing as new programs and techniques are introduced.
Step 3: Get an Education
- Getting an education is very important if you want to be hired by the best companies and earn top dollar. For those that want to hurry the process along, you can start be earning your Associates degree, which only takes two years and will usually be enough for you to get hired at an entry level position. From there you can continue working your way through school as well as the company that has hired you. Otherwise, you should get a graphic design related degree. These programs usually last three to four years and allow you to tailor your studies toward a specific area. This may include:
1. Visual communication
2. Multimedia
3. Animation
4. Web development
5. Advertising
6. Graphic design - this will focus more on the specifics of graphic design, but you do not have to major in graphic design in order to be employed in the field.
- You may also want to try and focus on extra-curricular or additional courses that include:
1. Computer technology
2. Graphics intensive courses
3. Finance courses
4. General business course
Step 4: Build a Portfolio
- Portfolios are one of the most important vehicles in getting you hired! Many potential employers will take all their perspective candidates portfolios and compare them before making their final decision on who to hire. You should:
1. Only include your best work. The higher the quality, the better impression you will leave.
2. Start building it early! Even if you are still in school, take freelance jobs and use them to help build up your portfolio.
3. Continually build your portfolio. Even if you have a great job, don't neglect the portfolio. Keep giving it cushion because you never know when your situation may change or when a better opportunity might arise.
Step 5: Get a Job
- Now you are ready to start seeking out employment. Hopefully, you have a degree and have been working on building your portfolio. Again, for those that only have a two year associate degree, expect entry level positions. Also keep in mind that you will want to tweak your resume and portfolio towards the specific job you are seeking. Places that hire graphic designers include, but are not limited to:
1. Advertising agencies
2. Magazines
3. Graphic design firms
Conclusion
- If you are creative and love working on computers, then graphic design may be the perfect career for you. By following the above steps, you too can achieve your artistic dreams. Before long, you may even see your own creative graphics on the newsstands!