Would you like to create meaningful graphics?
If you are interested in designing and have an eye for geometry, this field is for you. With a boom in marketing and branding, graphics play a significant role in building trust among the audience. You can also use it to convey your message with a deeper meaning.
However, it can be challenging for a beginner to start a career without proper planning.
Therefore, we created this guide to help you kickstart your journey in the arena.
So, without any further ado, let’s get started.
8 Tips to Become a Graphic Designer
You have to practice a lot to master any skill. That said, use the following tips to begin your journey in the creative field of graphic design.
– 1. Begin with the Basics
Before starting your practice, you have to learn about the software you want to use. You can choose from the best photo editors used by graphic designers to make a decision. However, most of the professional ones prefer to use Adobe programs.
The most popular graphic design tools from Adobe are Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. You can choose from them based on your approach to designing.
You can use Adobe InDesign if you want to create print media. It has numerous options for creating layouts and a multi-page document. Designers also use this software to create posters, flyers, banners, and other printable content.
It would be best to use Adobe Photoshop if you want to edit camera images. Besides, you can use this tool to create amazing effects on your photo. You can use all your creativity to make stunning images with this program. Designers usually use this program for raster images.
It would be best to use Adobe Illustrator for creating vector illustrations and logos. Vectors store the design elements in numerical data. Therefore, you can scale the image to any size if you make it on Illustrator.
Every designer has a favorite go-to tool when it comes to graphic designing. You can choose it according to your understanding and comfort with the program. If you want to go in print design, prefer InDesign. However, it would be best to opt for Photoshop or Illustrator if you’re going to create digital media.
You can find that Adobe let the user take full control of the design. You can create anything that comes to your mind if you know how the tools work. Therefore, before initiating the design process, we suggest you practice different tools for test subjects.
I find PiXimperfect provides you all the essential information for using a tool effectively. Also, you can benefit from its guides to enhance your skills in Photoshop and Lightroom.
– 2. Learn Typography
Typography is an art of making written language appealing and presentable. You need to learn about the difference in various fonts and understand their impact on your viewers.
Typography also deals with the alignment and location of text in your design. For instance, a bold and strong text can fetch more attention, so you should place it in the title position.
It is a vast field, and many designers get attached to the concept. You get to know the minute differences in the text and their impact on your audience.
When you master the concepts of typography, you can use this skill to make logos as well. Usually, designers use the knowledge to choose the best font suitable for the ongoing project.
– 3. Master Image Retouching
Images are the backbone of graphic design. No matter what your style is, you might need to edit a picture when you choose to become a graphics designer.
Images are the most impactful visual aspect of design. You can convey your message without using any words if you edit your picture correctly. Besides, it provides immersive quality to your design and complement other elements of your project.
Most designers use Photoshop for editing images. However, you can use a lightweight program to understand the tools better. Also, you might not require high-end retouching for most images. Still, it is wiser to keep some tricks up your sleeve.
Images play an essential role when you are designing for magazines or brochures. Also, you can use vector images for the same purpose. It allows you to scale your design according to your needs without compromising the quality.
– 4. Understand Color Theory
Colors play a crucial role in how your audience is going to experience your content. Besides, it would be best to understand the technical aspects of using colors.
Your color choice sets up the mood of your design. The same color with different saturation and contrast can deliver unique meanings. Therefore, you should try to use colors that compliment your design.
You can use Adobe Color CC to make a palette from colors in an existing image. Also, you can try the online color tools for creating a palette if you find it difficult to choose appropriate colors.
– 5. Learn to Create Print Media
Your designs can go haywire if you print them without proper alignments. It includes choosing the bleeds and setting the color spaces correctly.
Also, it is essential to optimize your colors for printing purposes. The primary difference between print media and the digital one is the color formats. Since printers use CMYK color format, you should optimize your design accordingly.
Besides, you need to set all your dimensions correct for an appealing layout. It helps designers maintain consistency and quality in their designs. Therefore, it would be beneficial to learn how to create print media in graphic design.
– 6. Learn to Create Online Content
Print and digital media shares some common traits. Yet, designers prefer to master one than juggling between both skills.
You can find that print design has some ground rules like using the grids and layout properly. Also, you have to practice the traditional approach for creating standard print designs.
On the contrary, digital designs give you the freedom to use your creativity in numerous ways. Besides, you can observe the performance of your design live on your digital platforms. Thus, you can infer how your audience is receiving the design.
– 7. Specialize in One Area
Graphic design is a vast field with several niches. Once you understand the concepts better, try to master one arena.
You should try and test various design methods, like creating print designs, brochures, vector art, logos, typefaces, and more. Then, prefer one style that feels natural to you.
You can master any skill with enough practice, but would you like to do it. It is essential in graphic design to choose your field according to your interests. Otherwise, you might get bored and lose interest quickly.
For instance, if you like to do image retouching, then you might find creating logos cumbersome. However, it is not necessary to follow a single style. You can shift to different niches if you feel so. Still, it would be best to master one before moving forward.
– 8. Create your Portfolio
It will help if you showcase your talent by making a portfolio. Collect your best designs so that you can show them to employers and clients.
For instance, if you want to design logos, then practice making logos for hypothetical companies. You can see a noticeable improvement in your designs with practice. Also, the examples provide your client with a glance of your designing skills. Eventually, your portfolio plays an essential role in closing a deal.
Moreover, you can benefit from using platforms like Behance, Dribble, and many more. These networks let you host your designs on their websites. You can get inspiration from other creators in the community as well. Besides, many employers skim through these sites for finding appropriate designers for their job.
Final Thoughts
If you have an artistic mindset and an eye for designs, you should become a graphics designer. You can find a boom in this field in recent years. It is because of the improvements done in the programs and tools by major companies like Adobe. Still, you need to practice a lot for honing your skills. We hope you find this article helpful. Use this guide to become a graphics designer.
