Do you have to be really good and talented in order to have a Graphic Design major?
I am thinking of studying Graphic Design but I am not that good at drawing. #graphic-design
2 answers
Mark’s Answer
Hi Alexandru--
A graphic artist is not necessarily an illustrator or artist themselves, but they have the knowledge of color, balance, typography, space, dimension to put together the elements that work to draw in the consumer--whether online or something as simple as a single page of text.
Many times a graphic artist will hire an illustrator or photographer, anyone who can create the element that they need in their design vision.
Like anything in the jobs that require artistic skills, a portfolio that shows off your work will be invaluable. As you apply for work, whether it be for a company or an individual client, you'll be asked to submit samples of your work. This is how your potential employer will determine that, in their eyes, you are "really good and talented" and able to provide what they are looking for.
You'll learn about the basics that you need, and that will help develop your skills and bring out your natural talent. You may find that you are more talented or have an eye in a particular field of design. A graphic artist sees the beauty and the challenge in everything from a giant project with multiple pieces, to a simple page of text--and they can make a a page of text into a beautiful design.
Don't worry about what you can't do, concentrate on what you can 'bring to the party.'
Good luck!
-M
Cuong’s Answer
Hey Alexandru,
I can safely say, you don't have to be excellent in drawing to be a graphic designer. In fact, you don't necessary need to draw if you focus your skills towards to elements such as typography, color theory, layout, communication, and creativity. With these, you can do many designs without actually drawing, you can do manipulation of photography.
Any jobs in graphic designs require an portfolio to showcase, meaning they want to see how you process and produce your designs. it's similar drawing your concepts if you have skills in drawing. You don't need to draw, if you have like wire frame or simple form of concepts, something that will show your process and drafts.