How to Learn Graphic Design
Graphic design is without a doubt one of the most intriguing digital skills that you can learn right now. With such a wide market and the high likelihood of getting a lucrative job, a lot of people are getting into the graphic design field.
If you’re interested in learning more, here are a few tips to help you on your way:
Learn to Sketch
One of the biggest mistakes that you can make with graphicdesign is jumping into Adobe Photoshop immediately. Knowing how to use Adobe Photoshop doesn’t make you a designer the same way that knowing how to use a paintbrush doesn’t make you an artist. It is important to begin with the foundational principles.
The first thing you need to learn is how to draw. While you don’t need to develop the same acumen as an artist drawing naked models, you should be able to proficiently sketch with a pen. There are books and video tutorials out there that, along with daily practice, can help you learn.
Learn graphic design theory
There are a lot of theoretical aspects to graphic design. These are the foundations that you need to know and build on including typography, color, and understanding how to design with a grid. For some, there are local classes that can teach you the basics. For those that don’t have that option, YouTube tutorials are another good way to improve your skills.
Learn some basics in user experience
User experience is a major goal of a good design, and as such there are a ton of books out there on the subject. There are also online courses and tutorials available to you.
Learn how to write
To be a good designer you need to be proficient in communication. You should be able to work through the whole user experience, choosing your words carefully to maximize their impact. This doesn’t necessarily mean writing in an academic tone just to sound smart, but rather efficiently relaying a message in a tone that is friendly to users.
Learn how to use Photoshop and Illustrator
Now that you have a good foundation, you can move on to learning Adobe. It is recommended that you begin with Illustrator and move on to Photoshop when you’ve mastered that.
Illustrator allows you to make awesome logos and iconsand has a variety of books and online tools to help you learn. There are also tutorial videos on YouTube that can help you learn different features of Illustrator and Photoshop.
Graphic design is not something you can learn and be good at with a lackadaisical attitude. Make sure that you watch tutorials, read books, and dedicate yourself to learning so that you can deliver quality work to your clients.
