3 weeks ago
The Graphic Design Industry Revealed
Have you ever wondered how images in a magazine got on them glossy pages? Have you got an excellent eye for colour or a fascination with how letter look? Graphic design might just be a viable option for you! We’ll give you all the information you need to decide whether to make the plunge.
Let’s set one thing straight, graphic designer are NOT artists. Artists create to inspire and emote whereas a designer creates to communicate.
So now to the big question …
What do graphic designers do?
Graphic designer, think of ideas and then create them using images and lettering to communicate. You could be working on infographics and logos. You will come to terms with the complexity of digital technology, using programmes such as Microsoft Office, Photoshop and Adobe. These are used to design web banners, graphics for social media and illustrations. As an apprentice in the graphic design industry you will gain an insight into the production process of a graphic design agency, and see how to interact with clients.
Skills needed
Graphic designers are visual thinkers; as an apprentice in this industry you’ll need to enjoy problem solving. Communication is vital, you need to be able to communicate you ideas the the particular target audience along with time management, as it’s essential that you can meet deadlines. Graphic design is a skill and like any skill it can taught, so don’t worry if you’re not the next big artist. As long as you can draw a stick person then that’s fine. A lot of fantastic graphic designers started out as apprentices, because working in the field is a massive advantage, you get to watch the professionals do it and then practice, practice, practice. If you’re the creative type and like to think outside the box then you’re half way there to holding half the skills required as a graphic designer.
This video highlight the key expectations required of you as a graphic design apprentice:
Progression routes
This image below shows the career paths within the design industry:
Useful links
Edward De Bono’s Six Thinking Hats is a must read for aspiring graphic designers!
For more information look at Creative and Cultural Skills
Find Graphic Design Apprenticeships here