Graphic designers create visuals that inform, inspires and transform. They are highly desired professionals in today’s innovative and disruptive world. However, graphic design is a skill that cannot be learnt overnight. It takes a lot of studying and work to become a skilled designer, and there are many different elements that go into good graphic design. For example, when looking for graphic design inspiration, did you know there are phycological factors when it comes to colour? So, if you have been thinking about making a career change to become a graphic designer, then keep on reading. We are going to share our top tips for getting started.
Find Your Passion
It sounds really cliché, but you must have a lot of passion when it comes to being a graphic designer. If you love drawing or like to stay update to date with art and fashion; the good news is that you are probably a creative person; you just haven’t realised yet. One of the most important factors to becoming a graphic designer is having a profound passion for creativity.
Study Whenever You Can
To be a graphic designer, you need to learn and become efficient in using Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator and Adobe InDesign. It’s also very beneficial to learn graphic design theory. By having an understanding of the foundations of colour, typography, layout, composition and branding, you can propel yourself from a beginner to an expert in no time at all. But, this means putting in the hard work and studying in order to learn.
Be Organised
This may sound a little bit deep, but time is important and is something you won’t ever get back. If you want to put the time in and learn graphic design, then you need to manage your time more effectively. This means cutting back on social activities such as nights out with friends and obsessing over your Instagram account. Doing this will also mean that you could end up saving some money which in turn you can invest in developing your graphic design skills.
Replicate Other Work
One of the most effective ways of learning graphic design is by studying and replicating other work so you can practice your skill. However, this is all about learning, so it’s extremely important that you don’t try to sell or present any work you have recreated.
Don’t Quit Your Job (Yet)
When starting your graphic design journey, unless you have a decent amount of money stashed away, then it’s better to study and organise your time efficiently. Whatever you do, don’t quit your job. Worrying about finances will not help you think straight and will put pressure on you.
Build Your Portfolio
The best way to develop your skills is to learn and build a portfolio of graphic design work. Another way of improving your skills is by doing work for your friends and family. When starting your graphic design journey, there is a high chance that you will do some work for free. However, it’s always good to say no when you don’t feel like doing the work. Lack of passion and motivation will undoubtedly show in the work you do.
Showcase Your Work
So, now that you have built up a significant portfolio, it’s time to showcase your work to the world. The best way to do this online is by using a website called Dribbble. It is a self-promotion, networking and portfolio platform for graphic designers. The more recognition your work gets online, the higher the chance your work will be noticed by someone who needs graphic designs services.
Accept Constructive Feedback
No matter how many years of experience they have, graphic designers will always receive both positive and negative feedback about their work. Graphic design is extremely subjective, so whatever designs you create may not always appeal to everyone. However, it’s important that all the work you do meets your client’s brief and that they are happy. It can sometimes be hard, but it’s important to take constructive feedback on board as it will only help you to improve your skills
Stay Inspired
Creative thinking is a fundamental must in graphic design, so it’s essential to stay up to date with the latest design trends and software. A good graphic designer will make an effort to be inspired by visiting blogs, looking at other designers’ portfolio and visiting art galleries and museums.
