Principal Creative at Media Mainline
6 years experience as a Graphic Designer
Were you always interested in graphic design?
I have always been interested in many aspects of Graphic Design, such as advertising, marketing, consumer behavior, branding, art, and communication. However, when I was younger, I had not thought to put these all together into one career with Graphic Design.
It wasn't until I went back to school as a mature student after years in Entertainment and Education, that it all seemed to fit together for me.
My formal education was in the field of Digital Multimedia, encompassing general studies in all aspects of Media design, including print, web, video, and audio. I also challenged the world’s toughest examination in this industry, to become an Adobe Certified Expert. Since graduation however, my specialty fell very quickly into Print Design, where I immediately found my niche and my love.
What do you like best about graphic design?
I feel that design work is very rewarding. Most notably, I enjoy the feeling of gratification in seeing a job well done and published. I am very results-oriented, and take a lot of pride in my finished products.
What skills are most important?
The most important skills in Design include a sound knowledge of composition, typography, color theory, and communication concepts. Too many newcomers to this field attempt to circumvent this knowledge with effects and software competency, which does not go over well when put into actual production.
What is most challenging about being a graphic designer?
The biggest challenge encountered in the production of design work is the poor quality of client-supplied content. It is very difficult to convince budget-conscious clients to pay us or others for professional photography, copy writing, or other content which is required for us designers to properly do our job. This creates a lot of extra work on the design end, which translates to a greater overall cost for the client, without the ability to produce the best quality deliverable at the end. This can be frustrating, even if we are being well paid for our work.
Using words and images, graphic design focuses on visual communication as a way to convey information. In the graphic design program at the Academy of Art University top notch professional will teach you how to apply design and technical skills to real world projects. Learn more about the Academy of Art University | Request free info
