Graphic design is the art of visual communication through the creation of logos, advertisements, packaging, websites, brochures, posters, flyers, and any other form of printed material.
Graphic designers work closely with clients to create original designs that effectively communicate their message. They may collaborate with copywriters, photographers, illustrators, web developers, and others to produce effective visuals.
1. Graphic Design History:
Graphic design history is filled with many interesting facts and figures. From the birth of typography to the invention of the computer mouse, graphic design has evolved through many different eras. This infographic takes a look at some of the most significant events in the history of graphic design.
2. The Birth of Typography
The first typeface was invented in China around 2700 BC. By 500 AD, the Chinese were using movable metal characters. Around 1000 AD, the Arabic world began making its own moveable typefaces. The first European moveable type font was created in Germany in 1450.
3. The Invention of the Computer Mouse
In 1963, Douglas Engelbart invented the computer mouse while working for the Stanford Research Institute. He then patented his idea in 1967. Bill Gates bought the patent from him in 1980 and later formed Microsoft.
4. The Birth of Postmodernism
Postmodernism is a movement that grew out of modern art and architecture. It focuses on breaking away from traditional rules and values. The term postmodernism was coined in 1964 by French philosopher Jean Francois Lyotard.
FEATURES OF GRAPHIC DESIGN:
1.Adobe Photoshope
Adobe Photoshop is a graphics editing software used to create digital images. It allows users to manipulate photographs and illustrations into different shapes and sizes. This program is widely used by designers and photographers.
2. Illustrator:
Illustrator is a vector graphics editor developed by Adobe Systems. It is used to draw, edit, and convert vector images. It is mainly used for designing logos, icons, and typography.
3. Dreamweaver:
Dreamweaver is a web authoring tool from Macromedia. It is used to develop websites. It provides features such as page layout, code editing, FTP uploading, and database integration.
Steps involved in graphic design:
1.Logo Design:
Logo design is the first step toward branding your company. A logo should represent your brand and what you stand for. It should be simple yet effective. When designing a logo, think about the colors, fonts, shapes, and sizes used. Keep your logo clean and simple. Avoid using too many details.
2. Business Card Design
A business card is a small piece of paper that represents your company. It can be used to introduce yourself to clients, potential employees, and business partners. Make sure your business card conveys professionalism and authority. Use a professional font, color scheme, and layout. Include your contact information, including your email address, phone number, and physical address.
3. Website Design
Your website is where your audience goes to learn more about your company. It is the face of your company. It needs to be attractive, informative, and user-friendly. There are many different types of websites, from static pages to fully interactive web applications. Choose the best platform for your needs.
4. Social Media Post Design
Social media post designs are similar to business cards. They are small pieces of paper that represent your company. However, they are designed specifically for social media users. The goal of a social media post is to encourage interaction. This means you want to add images, videos, and text to catch your audience’s attention.
ADVANTAGES OF GRAPHIC DESIGN:
1. Branding:
Branding is the first step toward building a successful brand. A brand is what makes you stand out from the crowd. It is the image, logo, slogan, color scheme, font style, and everything else that represents your company. When someone sees your logo, they should instantly recognize your brand. This is where branding comes into play.
2. Advertising:
Advertising is the second step toward building a successful business. Advertising is the act of telling others about your brand. It could be through print advertisements, television commercials, radio spots, billboards, etc.
3. Promotion:
Promotion is the last step towards building a successful company. Promotion is the act of getting others to notice your brand. It could mean social media promotions, public relations, word of mouth, etc.
DISADVANTAGES OF GRAPHIC DESIGN:
1. Graphic Designers Are Overpaid:
Graphic designers are paid well, but they aren’t worth their paychecks. They work long hours, often at night and on weekends, and they rarely get any recognition for their hard work. Their jobs are stressful, and they are constantly under pressure to produce quality work.
2. Graphic Designers Have Low Job Security:
Most graphic designers work freelance, and this means that they never know what kind of job they’ll have from month to month. This makes it difficult to plan ahead financially.
3. Graphic Designers Don’t Get Paid Enough:
A designer should charge around $50 per hour. However, many designers only receive between $25-$35 per hour. This is because they usually work for small businesses and start-ups, where budgets are tight.
4. Graphic Designers Can Be Unreliable:
Many graphic designers are unreliable. They may take weeks to complete projects, and then they disappear without finishing the project. This leaves clients frustrated and angry.
