What is the profession of graphic designer like?

Becoming a profession graphic designer?

• I've been playing with photoshop for years (since 2007) and there's not much on there that I can't do. But I want to pursue a career in graphic design (like movie posters, book covers, etc) now that I've graduated high school. I have the skills (well, I like to think I do anyway) but I don't know where to start. Should I create a website to get my name out there? Will additional schooling get me some noticed? (I plan on attending college, but I'm going to have a baby in 11 weeks so it's not something I can start right now). Any information that might help me out?

• Answer:

  If graphic designing is what you love, then you should definitely go for it! Of course jobs can be hard to come by, but that's true for many industries, not just design. It's great that you're familiar with Photoshop, but Photoshop will only take you so far. I recommend trying your hand at Adobe Illustrator (vector graphics) and InDesign (page layout) as well. You stated that you were interested in designing movie posters and book covers, but those are hard areas of graphic design to break into. I'm not saying it's impossible, but you have to realize that most of the work designers do, especially when first starting out, isn't glamorous. Yes, I definitely recommend creating a website. A website will show people that you are serious about being a designer, even if it's just freelance. It also makes it a lot easier for people to go to one place to see your work, your resume and it shows the best way to get in contact with you. I think schooling will help in terms of letting people know that you got taught the fundamentals of design and it certainly will help in getting a part-time or full-time job, but I don't think it's absolutely necessary if you just plan on doing this as a freelance or side job. Your portfolio will ultimately be what matters most to people so if your works speaks to who you are as a designer and shows what you're capable of, you'll do just fine. Instead of going to college, you could take courses at a local community college or attend seminars on design in your city. This will only help with networking. A lot of times in design it's all about who you know. Have you had clients before? If you already have real work to show potential clients you're off to a good start. If you're still looking to get some work to put in your portfolio, try contacting local non-profit organizations. They may not be able to pay as much, but it will give you invaluable experience and they usually need work done. You could always try Craigslist as well. I've gotten several clients by placing bids, but I wouldn't count too much on the website since most people are looking to pay as little as possible. Another possibility is to do an internship. There are some companies that even allow you to work from home and then you would correspond through emails or phone. This will look great on your resume, allow you to stay home and take care of your baby, and give you more experience. Good luck and congrats on the baby!