ST: Computer Industry Careers
Graphic Design
Graphic designers, like fine artists, use visual media to convey a message. Graphic artists, however, often work in the commercial arena. These artists create art for corporations, stores, publishing houses, and advertising studios. Unlike fine artists who may work in traditional media such as paint or ink, graphic designers tend to use computers almost exclusively for design, sketching, image manipulation, etc.
As the graphic design field has expanded, the emphasis has shifted from two-dimensional solutions, such as brochures or posters, to three-dimensional design, including graphics for screen displays such as television and World Wide Web pages. Graphic design can even extend to the creation of physical spaces (such as museum galleries) where a message must be communicated visually. Computer-aided design (CAD) has facilitated the growth of three-dimensional design.
There is still demand for two-dimensional graphic design however, which is often used for creating promotional displays in retail outlets, product packaging, logo design, and print advertising. Graphic designers also work on the design and layout of magazines, newspapers, other print publications and graphics for television. Although "hand skills" (such as drawing and drafting) are still used occasionally in graphic design, the computer has become the primary tool. The advantages of computer design are many: speed, precision, and above all, with on-screen editing, the ability to test various designs before a final decision is made.
There are many jobs in graphic design including:
- Print design
- Web design
- Designer in an advertising agency
- In-house designer for a corporation
- Illustrator
- Book design
- Multimedia (movie titles, TV ads, etc.)
- Corporate Identity (logos, stationery, etc.)
In art and design, demonstrated ability, rather than evidence of appropriate training is all that is required for success. The devise used by almost all aspirants to find employment or freelance work is the "portfolio". Evidence of talent and flair displayed in the portfolio is the single most important factor used by art and design directors and others in deciding whether to hire or contract out work to an artist. Some graphic design applications include: Photoshop, Pagemaker, Illustrator, Acrobat, Flash, and many more. Salaries for graphic designers range from $21,000 to $74,000 annually.
Some useful links for more information include: