What is graphic design? What do graphic designers do? And how to be a graphic designer?

So you just finished high school! Congrats, what a wonderful achievement! Now, you're on the hunt for a major that suits you. Let’s say you’re interested in arts, advertising, or marketing. And you stumble upon that intriguing major... graphic design? What is that exactly? What does a graphic designer do?

Don’t worry, I’m here to break it down for you!

What is Graphic Design?

Graphic design is the art of communicating a certain message in a visually appealing way. In advanced stages, it’s even about embedding the message in the recipient’s mind. Yes, this field is one of the most vital in our current era. Graphic design isn't just about making things look pretty; it’s about solving problems and conveying messages effectively.

What Do Graphic Designers Do?

Okay, so graphic design is all about visual communication, right? Well, kind of. Graphic designers are also problem solvers! They have creative minds that generate unique and effective solutions for their clients' problems.

The client will say, "Oh no, my skincare products aren't getting recognized by my target audience!" Maybe it’s time to rethink that sharp-edged logo and that dark blue color! add a splash of pink. It's a girly product, right? (Just an example to illustrate the point)

What You Need to Learn to Become a Graphic Designer?

1. Basic Principles of Graphic Design:

To become a successful graphic designer, you need to start with the basics. Here are some key principles you'll learn:

a. Color Theory: Understanding how colors interact and affect emotions

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b. Typography: The art of arranging text in a visually appealing way

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c. Hierarchy: Ensuring the most important elements stand out

d. Composition: Arranging visual elements harmoniously

e. Shapes and Layout: Using shapes to create meaning and guiding the viewer’s eye

These principles play a crucial role in creating compelling designs that communicate the intended message effectively.

2. Graphic Design Software Skills:

Once you have a grasp of the basic principles, it’s time to dive into the tools of the trade. Designers use various software to bring their ideas to life. Some of the most commonly used tools include:

a. Adobe Creative Cloud: This includes Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and other software

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b. Figma: A powerful tool for designing interfaces and collaborating with others

c. Canva: While some might shy away from admitting it, Canva is a useful tool for quick and easy designs

and many more! Mastering these tools will enable you to create professional-quality designs.

With the knowledge of design principles and software skills, you’ll be ready to start creating. Remember, practice and consistent learning are key to becoming a proficient graphic designer. Keep challenging yourself with new projects and stay updated with the latest design trends.

I’ll be sharing more articles about graphic design regularly! If you’re interested in this major and want to learn more, follow me and share your thoughts as well! Whether you’re just starting or looking to improve your skills, there’s always something new to learn in the world of graphic design.