How to Become a Freelance Graphic Designer

A freelance graphic designer works to create and update logos, images and websites to best promote a company and its message. Many graphic designers become freelancers after some time, since working as a consultant often offers the most rewards, both creatively and financially.

Things You'll Need

• Graphic design programs, such as PhotoShop
• State-of-the-art computer

Instructions

1. Learn to operate as many graphic design programs as you can. PhotoShop and Illustrator are standard, but less-known programs may also be valuable, especially if you are dealing with animation, flash and specialized photography. Most programs are available for both Mac and PC platforms.

2. Do pro bono work for nonprofit organizations. This is different from doing free work for friends and family, as you are doing a good deed and gaining exposure in the process. Professional work may require more dedication, but it can also make an important statement once it is finished and added to your resume.

3. Set up your own website and make sure it showcases the best of your talents. In the case of a freelance graphic designer, a website becomes both a business card and a living portfolio.

4. Offer free design reviews. You can do this on your own by visiting different websites, analyzing their logos and determining how they can be improved. Then, contact the owners and inform them of your results.

5. Set up a business plan that focuses on marketing. While you may not have a large investment besides the basic computer equipment, you will likely need to invest time and money in promoting your business and getting the word out. Work on developing your entrepreneurial abilities, or team up with a financial planner who can help you develop the best route to success.

6. Decide whether a designer partnership is the way to go. Many freelance graphic designers become partners with ad agencies, SEO writers and website designers. This may help you to get more work and increase your chances of landing clients.

Tips & Warnings

• Even if you have a degree in graphic design, take additional classes and workshops to become informed about the latest developments in the industry.

• Choose the best computer for your design needs. Often, designers favor Mac computers, but a PC is also useful.

• Don't overdo you website. There's no need to show every trick in the book in a single website. Instead, choose a few details that will impress prospective clients, but make the website clean and professional.

• When setting up your prices, don't sell yourself short. People are suspicious of graphic designers who are too cheap, associating them with either inexperience or poor quality.