Graphic Design Salary
Graphic designers use their artistic abilities and knowledge of visual communication to create magazine spreads, design websites, television commercials and other well-designed forms of media using color theory, pictures, animation, illustrations and special layout techniques.
Job Description
The first responsibility of a graphic designer has once they have started a new project is to discuess the requirements of the project with the client and find out what their expectations are. Once they understand the basic concepts, they will develop a basic outline and sketch for each separate design the project includes using Photoshop. The sketch displays the designer’s choices of colors, fonts and layout for each of the design’s components. They will then meet with the client to discuss the sketches, make sure they are on the right track and to get input and suggestions from them.
Another component of a graphic designer’s job description is managing assistants. They will often have assistants who work alongside them and help to bring the many components together into one set of consistent and polished documents. In addition to their day-to-day design duties, a head designer will also meet with prospective clients, write up business contracts and attend conferences and seminars to network with other professionals and promote their services.
Graphic designer at work
Most corporate jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree in graphic design. Previous experience with animation and website design are valuable assets that employers often look for on a graphic designer’s resume.
Job Market Outlook
The job growth for the field of graphic design is expected to be on par with the average overall job market growth for the next ten years or so. This average growth is around 13% between the years of 2008 and 2018. The job market is very competitive so having additional training and experience on top of completing a Bachelor’s degree is highly advised if you want to gain an edge over others who are also looking for a job.
Graphic Design Salary
The median graphic design salary reported to the Bureau of Labour Statistics in 2010 was around $48,000 and the top 90th percentile earned up to around $77,000. Many young artists and Photoshop hobbyists want to go to school for graphic design. In fact, it is one of the fastest growing college programs available right now. This growth is due to the high demand for graphic designers coming from businesses and corporations across a wide variety of markets and industries. In addition to this, having a graphic design degree opens up countless opportunities for creative individuals whose skills may not be noticed otherwise. A graphic designer salary is one of the highest salaries you can get with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree.