Having defined Graphics as communication design, I thought of it wise to throw more light on Graphics as a discipline. The main goal of graphic design is to create a visually appealing and clear picture that invokes a certain feeling or facilitates the relaying of a particular message. However, it takes much more than a little research to actually become a master in graphics. A graphic designer needs to have a talent for art (though, “talent” not a must), a good eye for aesthetics and pay attention to details. Sincerely, it takes a lot of academic endeavor to understand how to create composition within the desired medium and bring about a beautiful finished product reason being that the task in graphics1 also includes but not limited to the following:
Create designs, concepts, and sample layouts based on knowledge of layout principles and esthetic design concepts.
Determine size and arrangement of illustrative material and copy, and select style and size of type.
Confer with clients to discuss and determine layout design.
Develop graphics and layouts for product illustrations, company logos, and Internet websites.
Review final layouts and suggest improvements as needed.
Prepare illustrations or rough sketches of material, discussing them with clients or supervisors and making necessary changes.
Use computer software to generate new images.
Key information into computer/ electronic gadgets to create layouts for client or supervisor.
Maintain archive of images, photos, or previous work products.
Prepare notes and instructions for workers who assemble and prepare final layouts for printing.
Draw and print charts, graphs, illustrations, and other artwork, using computer.
Study illustrations and photographs to plan presentation of materials, products, or services.
Conduct a research on new software, design concepts and principles.
Mark up, paste, and assemble final layouts to prepare layouts for printing.
Produce still and animated graphics for on-air and taped portions of television broadcasts using electronic video equipment and computer technology.
Photograph layouts, using camera, to make layout prints for supervisors or clients.
Callie in 20132 opined that there are multiple paths to follow in becoming a graphic designer most especially in this computer age where anyone can learn a few tricks in Photoshop and call themselves an expert but the truth remains that there are certain steps to be taken to transcend from just ordinary Photoshop expert to a true “Pro”. I want to believe part of the steps he (Callie) was referring to is sound education in the area of Creative Arts. There are certain courses, skills and experience that is needed to be a Graphic design expert and not just a guru in “a specific” program.
A course in graphics is a foundational process towards a successful career in art and design. This will give the enthusiast a solid foundation; where such a person will learn the principles and concepts of design together with its theory and practice. It is worthy of mentioning that these courses are difficult to learn via self-study. So, that is where quality education rooted in solid practical and research comes in.
Fine! I heard you mentioning YouTube tutorials but will it give you the Certificate needed to get qualified into the creative industry most especially in a “settings/ environment” where certificate is very important and a must? You see, while YouTube tutorials can help introduce the software you’ll eventually need, graphic design courses as emphasized by Callie (2013)3 will provide you with crucial creative skills that are difficult to learn independently most especially since Graphic design as a discipline also incorporate courses unrelated to design such as: general business knowledge, professional communication, time management, project planning and documentation etc. which provides general knowledge that will help in becoming a fulfilled designer. In fact, appropriate education will refine and push out the creativity in you.
REFRENCES:
1. http://www.onetonline.org/
2. http://www.rasmussen.edu/student-life/blogs/author-archives/Callie%20Malvik
3. http://www.rasmussen.edu/student-life/blogs/author-archives/Callie%20Malvik
