What is a graphic designer?

A graphic designer works within the graphics arts industry to assemble typography, images, logos or graphics to create eye-catching designs. Typically, a graphic designer is tasked with presenting information in such a way that it is memorable and gets a certain message across in a visual, accessible way.

What media will a graphic designer work on?

Graphic design, as an art, has few boundaries, and a graphic designer or a graphic design company will usually be able to work with you or your business on a wide range of media, from printed brochures to electronic media.

Does a graphic designer work with video or the web?

Strictly, a graphic designer is not heavily involved with video advertising, but the boundaries of their profession are quite blurred. You will be able to find graphic designers who can work with a wide range of different media, sometimes being responsible for specialities such as user interface design and web design, or even video production.

What tools does a graphic designer use?

Over the past few decades, graphic designers have increasingly use graphic design software, such as the Adobe Creative suite. If they work on the web, they must also have knowledge of basic HTML and CSS techniques. Those working purely on print must be well versed in the different types of processes involved in printing.

What makes a good graphic designer?

A graphic designer's job is to analyse a visual communication problem, and solve it. They must gather information on the prospective audience, and come up with ways visually to get a message across. A good graphic designer must be able to understand the audience socially and culturally, and know how to create a bold visual message.

What is branding?

A graphic designer can typically help your company with its branding. Branding is essentially the "persona" of a company. Seemingly small choices in which typeset, colours or illustrations used in marketing and advertising will exude different qualities to your audience.

Will a graphic designer dictate my branding?

Graphic designers, in essence, do not decide on branding, but are skilled in the task of getting a corporate identity across visually. A skilled graphic designer will be able to take your proposed branding and turn it into a visual format for easy public consumption. Many graphic design companies will also be able to help advise about what type of branding may suit your company.

Are graphic designers licensed?

Graphic designers are not strictly certified or licensed. Certification is available from major software vendors, as well as diplomas and degrees in graphic design, but do be aware that anyone can call themselves a graphic designer.

How do I choose a graphic design firm?

Although cost and size of a graphic design firm will likely be your main criteria for choosing one to help your business, there are also other factors to consider. Professional designers typically have some formal training, and are thus skilled in the art of visual communication.

Getting a good design will cost more from a professional graphic designer (or a large design firm), but ultimately good design will lead to better marketing, advertising, and corporate identity.