Graphic designers are the creative minds behind the visual aspects of different types of media. They create everything from websites and logos to posters and brochures, communicating ideas and messages through imagery.
If you find yourself frequently sketching, snapping photos, or creating digital art, a career in graphic design might be right for you. Below, we dive into how online study can be your gateway to becoming a graphic designer, seamlessly integrating education into your lifestyle and preparing you for a successful career in graphic design.
What is a Graphic Designer?
Graphic designers create visual concepts using software or by hand. They might work on branding projects, design websites, or create visual content for print and digital publications.
Understanding colour theory, typography, and layout design is essential. This role is dynamic and varied, requiring adaptation to different styles and project requirements, often aligning with a client's vision.
What Does a Graphic Designer Do on a Daily Basis?
Graphic designers play a crucial role in visual communication, crafting visual content for a range of purposes. Here's a closer look at their typical tasks and responsibilities:
- Client Communication: Graphic designers often start projects by discussing with clients to understand their needs, objectives, and expectations. This initial conversation helps in setting the right direction for the design work.
- Design Briefs: After understanding the client's needs, graphic designers create detailed design briefs. These briefs outline the project's scope, including the message, target audience, and desired visual elements, ensuring both the designer and the client are on the same page.
- Creating Quotes: They then estimate the time and costs associated with the project, providing clients with job quotes. This includes detailing the work scope, timelines, and any other resources required to complete the project.
- Advising on Design Strategies: Graphic designers guide clients through different design strategies and approaches that can be taken to achieve the desired outcome. They might suggest certain styles, colour schemes, or layouts based on the project's goals and target audience.
- Idea Development: With a clear brief in hand, they start formulating creative ideas and concepts. This creative process involves brainstorming and experimenting with different visual solutions to address the client's needs effectively.
- Design Options and Feedback: Designers present various design options to clients, showcasing different approaches and styles. They then gather feedback and listen to the client’s preferences to refine and adjust the designs accordingly.
- Using Design Software: Graphic designers use advanced design software to create and finalise designs. They employ tools like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign to craft and edit visual elements, ensuring the final product aligns with the brief and client’s expectations
Read more: Adobe Photoshop vs Adobe Illustrator (& When to Use Each)
Graphic Designer Skills
To become a successful graphic designer, you’ll need a blend of soft skills (skills you naturally possess) and hard skills (skills you’d learn from an online course).
Graphic Designer Soft Skills
- Creativity and Innovation
- Strong Communication
- Effective Time Management
- Problem-Solving Ability
- Teamwork Skills
Graphic Designer Hard Skills
- Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite: In-depth knowledge of Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
- Understanding of Layout and Composition: Techniques for arranging visual elements effectively.
- Typography: Skills in choosing and utilising typefaces and fonts.
- Branding: Knowledge of how to create and maintain brand identity.
- Web and Digital Design: Familiarity with web design principles and creating graphics for digital use.
How Much Can You Earn as a Graphic Designer? (2024)
In Australia, graphic designers can expect to start with an average salary of around $78,104 per year. This figure can increase as you gain more experience and add more skills to your toolbox, enhancing the value you provide in your professional role.
Graphic Designer Employment Outlook
The job market for graphic designers is on the rise, with increasing demand across various industries such as video gaming, film, advertising, and digital media. This growth is largely fueled by the ongoing expansion of digital marketing and e-commerce, requiring high-quality, visually engaging, and brand-consistent content.
Future projections by Jobs & Skills Australia forecast significant growth in the graphic design sector, with around 78,100 positions available in the field by 2026.
This trend reflects a strong and growing demand for skilled graphic designers in the upcoming years, making now the right time to get started in the field.
More interested in digital illustration? Check out our [guide on becoming a digital illustrator with online study|how-to-become-digital-illustrator-online-study].
Read more: Adobe Fresco vs Procreate – Which is Better? (2024)
How to Become a Graphic Designer
Interested in a career in graphic design? The best way to get started is with an online course in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator & Graphic Design.
- Online Courses: Our graphic design course teaches you fundamental principles like layout and colour theory, as well as advanced techniques in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Our course is tailored for individuals new to the field aiming to build a solid foundation, as well as for seasoned designers seeking to enhance their skills and stay current with the latest industry trends.
- Micro-Credentials: Elevate your graphic design career with our targeted micro-credentials. These short courses enable you to expand your expertise or acquire new capabilities. For example, you could take a course on how to effectively use social media for business, which is beneficial if you plan to work as a freelance graphic designer.
- Build a Portfolio: Building a strong portfolio is essential for budding graphic designers. It should be a carefully curated collection that showcases your best work, diversity in skills, and personal style. Include a variety of projects that demonstrate your proficiency in different design areas, such as branding, web design, and print media. A well-crafted portfolio not only highlights your talent and experience but also gives potential employers insight into your design approach and problem-solving abilities.
Start Your Graphic Designer Career with OCA
Start your graphic design career with OCA and unlock the door to a world of creativity and innovation.
Our comprehensive online Photoshop course is for everyone – whether you’re looking to get started as a graphic designer or you’re looking to upskill.
The OCA Difference
At Online Courses Australia, we offer a holistic learning experience that goes beyond just acquiring skills.
We provide a supportive community, real-world applications, and a flexible learning environment that adapts to your lifestyle, empowering you to achieve your professional and personal development goals.
Get started today and download our online Photoshop course info pack below.
Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator & Graphic Design Course Bundle Info Pack Download
If you have additional questions about our courses that cover more than 20 different professional industries:
- Call: 1300 611 404
- Email: [email protected]
- Book a career call
Related Courses & Roles
If you have a genuine passion for graphic design, digital illustration, social media and marketing, the industry offers a wealth of career options. Here are some related courses and roles to check out:
- Career Development
