What Makes a Good Graphic Designer?

Graphic designers create websites, posters, advertisements and designs for commercial clients. The job of the graphic designer is to convey information through the combination of graphics and text.

Features

Graphic designers must be familiar with Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator, the industry standard graphic tools. They must be artistic, possessing an awareness of compositional strategies and the formal elements of a design. The most successful designers are quick and efficient and can communicate effectively with clients and collaborators.

Expert Insight

Graphic designer Matt Mattus believes graphic designers must possess a keen understanding of global trends and be able to create work that seems relevant and exciting to the consumer.

Considerations

While natural talent may make up for a lack of formal education, aspiring designers without relevant undergraduate work may be at a disadvantage when companies search for employees. You can bridge this gap by taking on small freelance jobs to add to your portfolio.

References

• "Beyond Trend: How To Innovate In An Over-Designed World" Matt Mattus; 2008