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What would you recommend to someone who wants to study graphic design Like what can I expect in classes and what do I need to know/ understand before I start college (Do I need to learn to draw and paint and all that?)?

I'm not the best in drawing or painting, I just feel like I'm a creative person and with the right practice I can do what I imagine

career college graphic-design
Thank you comment icon It's good to anyways start. You're can watch videos on you tube and try doing somethings on your own. Noopur Dubey
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Natalie’s Answer

I worked on my high school newspaper where I learned basic graphic design skills and I took college courses as well but my major was magazine journalism. I am a freelance graphic designer and I do not draw or paint well, so that is not a requirement, but I imagine it would be helpful. So many graphic design skills and other skills can be taught by going into design programs like Adobe Creative Suite and just playing around but it does need a subscription. There are many tutorials online as well. Good luck!
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Aaden’s Answer

As a budding graphic designer, it's vital to first understand the fundamental principles and identify the target audience for your designs. You have the freedom to explore various mediums and techniques for learning, but remember, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the principles related to your chosen method. Moreover, your classes will equip you with skills in visual communication, brand development, and enhancing user experience (UX).
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hi Gabriela! 😊

Planning to study graphic design? Here's a quick rundown of what you can expect in your classes and what you need to be aware of before you step into college:

1. Basic Design Principles: You'll need a good grasp of fundamental design principles like color theory, typography, and composition. These are the stepping stones for your future learning.
2. Software Knowledge: You'll need to be comfortable with graphic design software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign). These tools will help you create visual designs like logos, posters, and websites.
3. Design Basics: You'll delve into the core elements and principles of design, including balance, contrast, and alignment. You'll also get to know different design styles and how to use them effectively.
4. Visual Messaging: You'll learn how to convey messages visually, including creating infographics, icons, and other visual elements.
5. Brand Creation: You'll understand how to craft effective brand identities, including logos, typography, and color schemes.
6. User Experience (UX) Design: You'll learn to design user interfaces that are easy to use, visually pleasing, and intuitive.
7. Web Design: You'll learn to build websites that are responsive, interactive, and accessible.
8. Portfolio Building: You'll focus on creating a strong portfolio of your best work to impress potential employers or clients.

Before starting college, it's crucial to have a basic understanding of computer hardware and software, and a willingness to learn new technologies and design trends. While skills in drawing and painting can be useful, they're not a must-have for success in graphic design.

To aid your learning, I suggest the following reputable reference books:

1. "Graphic Design: The New Basics" by Ellen Lupton and Jennifer Cole Phillips
2. "Designing for Emotion" by Aarron Walter
3. "Don't Make Me Think" by Steve Krug

These books will give you a robust foundation in graphic design principles and practical tips for crafting effective visual designs.

Hope this helps, Gabriela! Best of luck with your studies! 🎓
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Karin’s Answer

Hi Gabriela,

I don't think you need anything specific before you start school, but I would recommend that you research a bit more what graphic design entails and pick something that interests you (e.g. start playing with design software, or read about colors and shapes or typography).

You find a lot of information, from short overviews to whole courses, on YouTube:

https://youtu.be/dFSia1LZI4Y?si=ABTgvFyH2gUc8wiw

https://youtu.be/9QTCvayLhCA?si=YyPq5KOmSiqFEzI4

https://youtu.be/C65_Po3pt_8?si=a291gbhDsvuWL0pt

Good luck!

KP
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Viv’s Answer

To find an example of what requirements are needed for a graphic design program, look up the requirements for your local college. Some may require a portfolio of past projects when you apply while others don't require anything specific!

It's a good learning experience to start to teach yourself some design platforms (Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, Microsoft PowerPoint, Figma, Canva, etc.) and learn what types of medium you prefer (digital art, illustrations, painting, etc.). You can then start by trying to imitate an existing design to learn different elements like typography, formatting, color theory. And then start playing around with your own ideas!
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Judith-Ann’s Answer

Hello Gabriela, It is wonderful to be creative in every aspect of your life. It's even more wonderful to find a creative outlet in your career. No matter what career you choose, being creative will be a great asset. So I am wondering with all the ways to be creative, you are looking at being a graphic designer? If you know someone who is a graphic designer, reach out to them with you questions.

As Karin mentioned, there are so many youtube videos to subscribe to or just watch:
I found the following series helpful for you:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6xwZPzDvQ-A
This designer is enthusiastic and has many videos that tell you all about graphic design.

Have a wonderfully creative life.
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Curt’s Answer

Hi, Gabriela!

You certainly don't have to be a good drawer or painter to have talent and a career in the visual arts. I worked in a large art department for many years for a publishing company and we had about 17 graphic designers/art directors. I would say about half could not draw well at all, but they were good designers. Their skills were more towards how to make text and imagery work together in a pleasing way.

Definitely start learning the fundamentals of what makes good design so you will begin to understand how typography, graphics, and white space all work together.

Also, when you say you are "not the best in drawing or painting", that is subjective. You may actually have a unique style that could be very interesting that leads to success as a freelance illustrator. Do what comes natural to you and don't worry about trying to create art that you feel others want to see.

There are many avenues in the visual communication industry, so start to absorb all the art and design we see all around us on a daily basis and perhaps you will gravitate towards an area that interests you the most, and you can focus your studies on that.

Best of luck with your journey!
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