Graphic designers are responsible for the development of ideas that establish visual aid to all forms of media. They are the driving force behind layouts of magazines and websites, film production, and newspapers. It is the responsibility of the graphic artist to make sure information is presented in the most effective and eye grabbing way. Many companies or corporations use a graphic artist to ensure their message will be memorable and recognizable to the consumer. Use of computer and animated graphics are used to make promotional displays, packaging, and marketing brochures unique to specific organizations. Graphic artists that work in film production can be responsible for such information as the opening and closing credits of a movie.
In this day in age, computers and technology have taken over. Many graphic artists are pursuing careers in website design. It is up to the graphic artist to decide which color, type, illustration, photography, and animations are best suited to convey the necessary information. New advances in video gaming have also increased the demand for graphic artists to develop and design the graphics and animations in video games.
It is necessary for graphic artists to research potential clients in order to determine the demographics and other relevant information pertaining to the project. This may mean conducting independent surveys and studies on specific cultures, physical, and social factors. At times, a graphic designer will need to meet with art directors and clients in order to establish relationships, formulate ideas, and develop concepts.
Most graphic designers begin with ideas that are transferred to paper by sketch. A number of artists are now relying more on computer software programs to assist in the production. The use of computer software is greatly reducing the cost and time involved in presenting ideas to prospective clients. This means graphic designers are able to reach more people while delivering products to a larger market.
It is possible for a graphic artist to supervise a support staff that aids in creating the designs. Many graphic designers work in their own businesses and are able to contract work on a freelance basis. This means, in addition to caring for the needs of clients, graphic artists need to also develop and maintain promotional information regarding themselves. In order to truly be successful in this business, it is important to network and also keep up with the current trends in graphics and animations. Being aware of competition and doing accurate research is crucial to the success of graphic artists.
Many graphic artists are able to obtain positions as graduates with an associate’s degree. Many two year and community colleges offer courses. It is also possible to complete a certification program through a professional school that meets accreditation requirements. The courses are pretty standard, graphic designers need to show proficiency in a number of areas. Studio art, principles of design, computerizes design, commercial graphic production, printing techniques, and website design are standard curriculum.
Graduates with both associate degrees and certificates will have completed the program in a relativity short period of time, and focus primarily on the technical aspect. It is not uncommon for applicants to have a bachelor’s degree in another study. 2- year certification programs are available in this case to give the student the necessities of the graphic design world.
In order to receive advanced graphic artist positions, and depending on the specific company; a bachelor’s degree may be required. Some companies may encourage graduates to have completed courses in basic liberal arts as well. In order to be well versed and to appeal to a variety of people, services, and industries sometimes it is necessary for artists to have basic knowledge of history, writing, psychology, sociology, foreign languages, and cultural studies.
It has become extremely important for graphic artists to remain familiar with the ever-changing world of computers and technology. It is crucial to keep up to date with new software programs in order to meet the demands of the public.
Courses in communication and written skills may also prove to be beneficial for a graphic designer. They need to transfer their creativity into forums that can be expressed in writing, as well as verbally and visually. The demands of the consumer have the potential to change rapidly. It is important for artists to be open to new ideas and influences, knowledgeable, and open to change depending on current trends.
Many graphic designers will choose to do this work as a freelance job. This means that freelance graphic artists will need to be disciplined, motivated, and a self -starter. In addition to “being your own boss” it is important for freelance graphic designers to understand and be knowledgeable of the business and financial aspects of the business. The ability to keep accurate records for both finances and deadlines is extremely important to the success of a graphic designer.
Many designers will keep a portfolio of their best work. This portfolio essentially acts as the showcase for the graphic artists talents. Many companies will choose a candidate based on the contents of the portfolio. It is important to keep everything. Companies are all looking for different things when it comes to hiring a graphic designer.
The salaries for graphic designers will range depending on various experience, education, and quality of work. Salary ranges may also be affected depending on the corporation or company a graphic artist is employed for. As noted earlier, graphic designers have a large amount of opportunities to work in many different industries. Salary information may vary depending on the nature of the work. Artists that generally work in print ad will make less than artists specializing in motion pictures and film.
Another factor in the rate of pay for a graphic artist is the level of responsibility. Reports published by the American Institute for Graphic Arts in 2005 indicate the average salaries based on position and level of responsibility. Entry-level artists earned on average, $32,000 per year. These would be designers fresh out of college or those just beginning in the professional world of graphic art. One step up from the entry-level is a position known as staff-level. Graphic designers who fall into this category earned $42,500 per year. Senior designers, who are also considered supervisors or managers, can earn an average of $56,000 per year. Senior designers have the decision-making power and work with artists to develop many projects.
Graphic artists that are disciplined and like to work on their on schedule can make a good living working as a freelance designer. Freelance artists work on contract from many companies and corporations. In 2005, the reported median income for the year was $60,000.
Graphic designers that have created their own company and firm rounded out the top in percentages of annual income. On the average they earn $100,000 per year. This is similar to the earnings of art directors in major corporations. Art or design directors earn on average, $90,000 per year.
Here is a breakdown of median annual earnings for specific industries that hired the greatest number of graphic designers.
Architectural, engineering and related services $42,740 per year
Specialized design services $41,620 per year
Advertising and related services $40,010 per year
Printing and related services $32,830 per year
Newspaper, periodical, book and directory $32,390 per year
Publishers
Graphic designers have many options for finding work in this specialized field. There are opportunities to work from home, in radio, in television, and in the movies. Artists may also find themselves employed in large corporations and can be successful owning their own company. The options and possibilities in this career are endless. With the advances in technology and the dependency on computers, this is one of those careers that is only growing in demand.