Graphic designers create visual concepts
to inspire, inform, and captivate consumers.
They develop the overall layout
and production design for advertisements,
websites, magazines, and other print
and online material.
These designers use both text and images
to communicate ideas.
They design the lettering and color of text
as well as arranging images and copy
on a print or webpage.
When using copy in layouts,
graphic designers collaborate closely
with writers.
Many use their creativity to transform
statistical data into visuals
to make complex ideas more accessible.
Graphic designers generally work in studios
with drafting tables, computers,
and design software.
Although many graphic designers
work independently,
those who work for
specialized graphic design firms
often work on teams.
Work schedules typically
revolve around deadlines
whether to deliver a finished product to clients,
printing companies,
or to publish on the Internet.
Self-employed designers tailor their workday
around meetings with clients,
including evenings and weekends.
They often spend time
looking for new projects
and must compete with other designers
for contracts.
At firms, graphic designers are likely
to work more standard hours.
Most positions require
a bachelor’s degree in graphic design
or a related field.
A professional portfolio of their work
is a must for graphic designers
to show potential employers their skill,
creativity, and originality.