What is Graphic Design? Everything You Need to Know

If you are planning to start a graphic design career then this article will help ensure you secure the best position for yourself. Welcome, you have arrived at the right place. In this guide, we will discuss all segments of graphic design in the modern day. Now let’s see what you should know about this fascinating industry.

What is graphic design?

Graphic design is the process of using the combination of text and pictures as well as other graphic images that are well placed to pass a given message and present information. Graphic design can be described as a broad field of art and craft that involves such aspects as type and image making, photography as well as illustration & digital imagery.

As a graphic designer, you need to take a closer look at the concepts of composition, colors, and typography. It is important to distinguish between artistic skills and technical skills before defining each of them. Artistic skills tell about the human creative abilities and define the concept of art. Technical skills, on the other hand, describe efficiency and precision about the skills to perform specific tasks.

Elements of graphic design

As it is quite evident, graphic design is all about visual communication – it involves the use of several factors. These elements complement one another to produce captivating productions that also effectively communicate insight and visual creativity. The basic elements of graphic design include:

• Line: A shape with dimensions which will vary in size to control the movement of the viewers’ gaze.
• Shape: Two-dimensional elements in standard based shapes that can form enclosed structures in a design.
• Color: It enhances the interest, mood and meaning that is associated with a particular design through coloration.
• Texture: Depending on the selected materials, texture contributes to a richer image on the surface of design.
• Space: Symmetry was once a method of allocating equal space to complement design in a design.
• Form: As compared to text, Forma is a three-dimensional item which means it is an item that has thickness and volume.
• Typography: Typography is one of the defining features that attract standardized fathom full text.
• Image: This also brings another consideration that helps in any form of design, Image.

Principles of Graphic Design

In graphics design, there is an arrangement of the various type aspects to follow the graphical elements to lay down the design. These principles are vital in arranging parts of a composition, in an effort to have order, rhythm and symmetry in a perceived layout. Some key principles of graphic design include:

• Balance: Division and organization of peculiar elements in order to achieve an equivalent equilibrium.
• Contrast: This effect focuses on such differentiation of some of the elements to vary in the way they are displayed.
• Emphasis: Exposing the semiotic indices that define the focal points in the design.
• Movement: Spectator movement is being guided by what is in the composition.
• Proportion: The round parameters and dimensions of the elements are predetermined in relation to each other.
• Rhythm: Identification of the foundation of visual beat by patternification of repeating elements.
• Repetition: Rapid the unity by reproducing motifs of design.
• Alignment: A process where the objects are aligned on the same side of the apertures.

Types of Graphic Design

Graphic design has many niches since it is a versatile type of field with numerous classifications. Both are geared towards different aspects of design and visual communication into graphic design. Some common types of graphic design include:

Visual Identity and Branding

The Visual Identity and Branding is the project which is concerned with the creation of visual images of the University. Designing tangible objects that relay brand image and the company’s beliefs and values.

Print and Publication Design

Print and Publication Design could be characterized as any graphic communications major like Graphic Design and Advertising that is used in the creation of books, magazines, newspapers, brochures, corporate identity material, posters, packaging and fliers among others.

Marketing and Advertising Design

Creating graphics, images, videos, and infographics for the purpose of advertising commodities and services with appeal to the intended customer base.

Website Graphic Design

Designing layouts, icons, and graphics which are used in the construction of the website to enhance the access points and the design.

Packaging Graphic Design

Packaging as a method of presenting the product to the buyer with the goal of creating an appealing and communicative appearance.

Typography Design

Designing and formatting the fonts and the contents of the text literally and aesthetically.

Illustration Design

To fulfill this purpose, artists made new pieces of art that helped illustrate ideas and stories.

Motion Graphic Design

Applying animation as a tool of sharing messages through a series of movements.

Infographic Design

Analyzing the information and data and representing the same through graphics and text in order to convey the intended message coherently and effectively.

Graphic Design Tools

Graphic design tools are terms that refer to all the materials, equipment and technology that a graphic designer needs for his respective job. This embraces traditional writing instruments such as a pen and paper right to the recent state-of-the-art gadgets such as computers and software. Some common graphic design tools include:

• Desktop computer/Laptop
• A Reliable hard drive
• Pen and Paper
• Quality Sketchbook or Notebook
• Stylus and Graphics Tablet
• High-Resolution Monitor
• Variable Desk
• Ergonomic Chair
• Pantone Swatch Book
• Design Software

Graphic Design Softwares

Graphic design software may be defined as computer related software application specifically being used in designing as well as modification of graphic design projects. These software enables designers to have numerous features and functionalities when it comes to aspects of graphics design. This encompasses image editing, vector graphics, layouts, typography, and digital painting and provides designers with full control over visual elements. Some popular graphic design software includes:

• Adobe Illustrator
• Affinity Designer
• Adobe Photoshop
• Affinity Photo
• Adobe InDesign
• CorelDRAW
• Figma
• Sketch
• Canva

Advantages and Disadvantages of Graphic Design

Before diving into any profession, you need to know its pros and cons. Every industry has benefits and drawbacks of its own. Graphic design is a diverse industry along with the advantage of increasing opportunity, demand and more. It also has disadvantages such as competition, limited promotion opportunities and more. Below are the list of common pros and cons of graphic design:

Advantages of Graphic Design

• Potential for creative expression
• Opportunity for remote employment
• Potential for professional success
• Diverse options of career prospects
• Varied types of job opportunities
• new techniques and skills learning opportunity
• Competitive income and benefits
• Opportunity to work with reputable companies
• Flexibility to work independently
• Better accessibility to resources

Disadvantages and Challenges

• Compensation is not always attractive
• High competition within the industry
• Dealing with critique and demanding client
• Prolonged hours working all day on computer
• Opportunities for promotions is limited
• Risk of potential health effects
• Must meet client specifications
• Deadlines Interfere with Creativity
• Everyone thinks graphic design is easy

Final Thoughts on Graphic Design in 2024

In conclusion, graphic design is a versatile discipline that influences our daily lives. From the logos of our favorite brand to the websites we visit. Graphic design demand and career opportunities are increasing very fast. Align with that increasing competition in this industry. 

By understanding graphic design principles, design applications and tools we can unlock full potential. If you are a creative person then there are endless possibilities for your creativity, expression and impact.