How to Become a Graphic Designer: All You Need To Know
24/08/2023 2024-09-25 23:09How to Become a Graphic Designer: All You Need To Know
If you are looking for a platform to channel your creative talents, a graphic design career, with its stimulating combination of images, words and symbols, might just be it for you. In this new age, with mainstream courses and careers losing momentum, the creative domain is gaining popularity, and its importance is being recognised. There’s a chance the question of ‘how to become a graphic designer’ is already popping up in your mind!
The allure of this field has made students reconsider their career options. This has led to more competition but also more opportunities. If you wish to make optimal use of these opportunities and launch a career in graphic design, this blog is just for you. It takes you through all you need to do to start your career on a high note. It essentially teaches you how to become a graphic designer.
How Do You Get Into a Graphic Design Career?
Here are some steps that you can take to start your career in graphic design.
Get a Formal Education
Graphic design is one of the careers where an undergraduate degree or a similar education is not strictly required. However, opting for a formal education will kickstart your career as a graphic designer by providing you with multiple opportunities to enter the field. It will equip you with a thorough understanding of the basic principles of this field, which will give you a competitive edge.
To make full use of all the advantages that a college education presents, make sure that you enrol in a reputable institution. To that end, consider the Bachelors in Graphic Design offered by the JD School of Design. This four-year programme is designed to enhance the student’s critical and creative thinking skills.
It also provides them with comprehensive knowledge of the critical technical aspects of graphic design, with a focus on novel approaches. Overall, the course will prepare students to succeed in the dynamic field of graphic design.
How to Become a Graphic Designer After 12th Grade
Most students prefer to get into their career of choice right after school to get a head start. You can do this with graphic design as well. Some of your options include a certificate, a diploma, and an undergraduate course. Starting early will set you on the right graphic design career path.
Learn Software Skills
One of the most critical steps to take when you learn graphic design is to develop the necessary software skills to help you enter the field. There are vast online resources that cater to these requirements. Well-structured courses and tutorials will enable you to grasp the intricacies of graphic design and provide you with valuable insights.
These courses complement your academic learning by helping you learn in-demand skills in design tools like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. You will gain a thorough understanding of each piece of software’s scope and applications.
Get an Internship
An internship is one of the best ways to start or boost your career. It offers an in-depth knowledge of the inner workings of the field and industrial exposure. Also, it gives you hands-on experience with handling clients and projects.
The chance to use your design skills practically will improve your grasp of the concepts. Moreover, internships are profitable in terms of networking and connections. This will prove beneficial for your career in the long run.
Start Freelancing
After you have acquired the necessary education and skills, you are all set to get into a graphic design career and start looking for jobs. However, it might take some time for potential employers to get back to you.
Utilise this time wisely by completing commissioned freelance work. There are several online platforms that will help you get started.
In this process, you will gain immense experience with using your graphic design skills in accordance with the client’s requirements. Also, consistent freelancing will keep you in touch with your skills. It is one of the most profitable ways to gain recognition.
Create an Online Presence
serve as platforms for you to display your talent, expertise, and experience. You can showcase your best work to create an enduring impact on potential employers. It will also allow you to maintain connections with people of interest in your line of work.
As a result, having an online presence will help you enter the field and advance your career.
Is Graphic Design a Good Career?
In recent times, the scope and reach of graphic design as a career have widened considerably. Graphic designers have the option of working in a variety of industries. They can also choose to pick a specific niche and establish themselves.
Some of the job roles of a graphic designer include:
- Art directors
- Drafters
- Web designers
- Industrial designers
- Multimedia artists, and animators
The extensive creative freedom, constant reinvention, and ongoing learning process make this a rewarding career path indeed.
On average, graphic designers can earn up to INR 3,00,000 per annum, and it generally ranges between INR 1,00,000 and INR 6,40,000. However, with good perception, artistic talents, and other relevant skills, there is no limit to the success that you can achieve.
Final Thoughts
Remember that the graphic design field is a competitive one, so follow this graphic design roadmap, be persistent, continue to improve your skills and portfolio, and be open to feedback and constructive criticism. With hard work and dedication, you can build a successful career in graphic design.