What is graphic design
So, this is a bit like trying to define art. What some may consider a masterpiece, others may find a catastrophe. But, hey, we are up for a challenge today.
At its most literal, graphic design is the creation and manipulation of images, layout, styles and symbols for reproduction in print and electronic media. A graphic designer will use their skills, experience and knowledge to create and add elements to a project to give it style, identity and visual appeal. Perhaps a good way to describe it is as a type of technical art.
Just like art, the way a product communicates to others is what is important. This is business after all, and you want to attract as many customers as possible.
And great things happen when it is done well.
Think about what appeals to you. Generally, the first of the five senses engaged in response to something is sight. It is no wonder that sight is considered the most powerful of the senses and why marketing is designed around visual appeal – things need to look good.
Graphic designers give a project its ‘look’, making it attractive to the eye. When things look great, they catch our attention. It is this eye-catching moment that a graphic designer works to create.
Graphic designer qualifications
Graphic design is a strong future growth industry with a very high skill level required. There are several pathways to becoming a qualified graphic designer, with a popular choice being a university level/higher education institute degree such as a Bachelor of Visual Communication (Design). Studied over three years, this degree accounts for approx. 45 per cent of qualified graphic designers in Australia. Subjects studied include branding, advertising, web design and image making, among others.
Graphic designers may go on to specialise in a field of interest including brand and identity, digital and web-based design, book and magazine design, corporate design, television, film, and set and exhibition.
Graphic design styles
There are several approaches a graphic designer can use to bring a project to life. Each style is distinct and recognisable due to the way it has been created. For example, Art Nouveau uses flat, outlined illustrations and hand-drawn lettering. This contrasts with, say, Art Deco, which uses sharp geometric elements. A graphic designer will help you navigate the different styles and work out the best and most suitable style for your project.
How to find a graphic designer
First, do your homework. Second, do some more!
Like anything, not all things are equal, and this also goes for the graphic design industry. There are many good quality designers with exceptional skills and high levels of education and experience, and then there are those with a computer and a free program who call themselves a graphic designer. Beware!
Look at the online presence and current work examples of different graphic designers. Ask to meet with them. Speak to their existing clients. Are they responsive? Do they produce work on time? Do they go above and beyond to ensure client satisfaction? You can’t tell these things from a quick internet search.
If there is a company whose online presence you love, or a product that resonates with you, ask the organisation who did the design work. Word of mouth is very valuable, and a personal recommendation is worth its weight in gold.
Are you familiar with the saying ‘You have to see it to believe it’? This rings true in the world of graphic design.