About Web Designers

A Web designer is a person responsible for creating a website. Web designers have the specific task of coming up with an idea for a website and translating that idea into visual art. Because of this, most Web designers are also considered artists. It is interesting to note that this type of artist did not exist until the mid-1990s, but now Web design is one of the most popular and coveted jobs in the field of technology.

Types

Web designers are either freelancers or hired as part of a design team. A large percentage of Web designers are hobbyists who do not make money from their skills. Regardless of their employment status, there are two main types of web designers. The first are visual designers, who conceptualize their idea for a website and design it with the aid of an art program such as Adobe PhotoShop. The second type are programmers. Programmers translate a design into an Internet language or code, such as HTML. This is because Internet browser such as Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox, cannot read images or design, but only HTML. The HTML code, however, instructs the browser to display the design. Some web designers are both visual artists and programmers. It's important to have the ability to do both.

Function

Web designers create Web pages that relay information. Similar to art directors in magazines or photo shoots, Web designers create a look that better conveys the intended content. Successful Web designers are those who can create a Web page that is visually stimulating and yet usable. This means that the user should be able to interact with the Web page and that the design does not interfere with the information.

Misconceptions

Considerations

There is an ongoing debate on whether or not Web designers should attend school. There are many reputable design schools available, but attending one of these schools does not automatically validate one as a Web designer. Most Web designers are self-taught and believe in the values of hands-on experience in the real world.

Whatever path chosen, all Web designers should have their own website, with a portfolio of their designs. Even if the Web designer has not had any clients, a portfolio that shows his or her style aesthetic and capabilities is a must.

Features

Most Web designers choose to work with several tools that aid them in their craft. One such tool is a designing software. The most popular design software is Adobe PhotoShop, which allows designers to create the visual look of a page. Another tool is an HTML editor. There are many available on the market, and different opinions on which is the best. Many Web designers who are very well versed in HTML coding simply use a Windows Notepad. Some who are not as familiar with HTML use programs such as Adobe Dreamweaver or CoffeeCup.

Resources

• Adobe Products
• CoffeeCup HTML Editor

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