Design a new career in graphic arts
When you read a magazine, buy a product at the supermarket, look at a billboard, watch TV, or browse a website, chances are you’re looking at the work of a graphic designer. Today’s graphic designers use traditional tools, including pencils and paper, but also use the newest and most sophisticated computer design software. Computer design applications include Adobe Illustrator, PRIMO pdf, AutoCAD 3D modeling software, and Adobe Flash software for web-based flash designs. To learn how to use these tools effectively, you will need the proper training.
An example: you design an ad for sneakers
A graphic designer’s job is to create a message using color, shape, line, and texture. The message can be structured to enhance the sale of a product or it can be reflected in the product itself to create visual appeal and branding.
For example, consider a sporting goods manufacturer that is introducing a new line of classic basketball shoes. If marketed effectively, they will sell well to young adult men, whether the buyers actually play basketball or not.
The marketing director of the advertising agency responsible for introducing the new shoe approaches you, the graphic designer. The marketing manager asks you to create an Internet ad for the shoe. It has to look exciting, dynamic and fresh. The ad may include an endorsement from a professional basketball player.
Are you designing your ad with a theme of pretty yellow daisies in a summer garden? Probably not. Daisies are lovely, but they won’t sell basketball shoes. Would you use a cute puppy? Not again. Everyone loves puppies, but you wouldn’t use one in your sneaker ad campaign.
Using a program like CorelDRAW Graphics Suite, you can create a design that shows a group of urban kids playing basketball in an asphalt parking lot. Perhaps it is night and the only light is coming from a street lamp. Maybe your design uses colors like black, purple, and silver. The text letters are slanted and dynamic. You can see from the ad that the kids wearing the shoes are passionate about basketball.
Before you even start, you’ve already made some decisions that a graphic designer makes. Whether you’re designing an ad for shoes, the box the shoes come in, or even the logo on the side of each shoe, the choices you make help educate the consumer about the product.
How is the job outlook?
Like many specialized careers, your job prospects may depend on your level of training. Most entry-level graphic design positions require an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. You will need to receive training from an accredited college or career school. But finding a good school shouldn’t be difficult; The National Association of Schools of Art and Design accredits about 250 postsecondary institutions with programs in art and design.
Once you have the title you need, what’s the big picture? According to the US Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 40,000 new jobs will be added in this field in the current decade, from 2008 to 2018. Median wages were $42,400 in May 2008, but annual earnings can exceed $100,000 for those with an ownership interest in a successful business.
Prospects will be better for graphic designers with a background in animation and website design. It should increase the demand for interactive media products, including mobile phones, video games, personal digital assistants and other technologies. Mastery of computers and computer design programs will be an advantage.
Is it a competitive field? Yes! But the rewards are great. Imagine creating graphic art that can be seen by millions of people and can even influence popular culture. With the right training, imagination, and hard work, a rewarding career in graphic design could be yours.
Starting
If you like visual design and want to get professional training, you’ll need to find an accredited college or career school, either near you or online, that offers graphic design programs. But how to find a school? The best way to get started is to go online to a directory of accredited colleges. You can enter the search terms that fit your situation, such as “graphic design,” “associate degree,” and your hometown or zip code. You will see a variety of options. Check them out and compare programs, financial aid opportunities, professional services, and hours. Then, with one click, you can get free information from the schools you have chosen. Make your choice and apply. In less time than you think, you could be on your way to a rewarding new career in graphic design.