5 things to know about: Graphic designers

STAFF WRITER

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Behind every poster, brochure, logo and sign is a graphic designer who helped make someone’s vision become a reality.

Graphic designers use the tools and skills available to them to complete a variety of projects that aid in marketing, communication, and the functionality of various endeavors.

Graphic designers from Clovis Community College, Elliott Marketing and Custom Graphic Design explained five things to know about being a graphic designer.

link Staff photo: Joshua Lucero

CCC publications and website coordinator Scott Knauer adjusts a design for a promotional booklet.

• Graphic design isn’t limited to the computer. Graphic designers will often begin a project by sketching and the entire process can involve taking photos, painting, set design, and putting up signage by hand. “(I’ve) had to go up in a scaffolding 16 foot in the air to do the artwork for signage,” said Karla Musgrove, a graphic designer for Elliott Marketing.

• Long hours are dedicated to single projects. Projects can take weeks depending on the task. Some projects, such as newsletters and magazines, can take designers weeks of writing, designing, and page layout before the final product is ready to be made. “I’d say (it would take) about 3 weeks for our brochure because it would take time to set up all the design for each individual page," said Clovis Community College graphic designer Adriana Garcia of the Cultural Arts brochure she designs for the college.

• The client has the final say in any design. Graphic designers are able to make up designs or follow strict instructions depending on a client’s request. The final product can undergo many iterations until a client is satisfied. “Settling into a career in graphic design, you should be really open to criticisms," saidCCC publications and website coordinator, Scott Knauer.

• It can be difficult to explain the work that goes into graphic design. Graphic designs can look simple but the hours and research that are involved in the process can be challenging and time consuming. Custom Graphic Design owner Noel Hunt said, “It can take a lot of patience to explain how designing works and how it will benefit the client."

• Personal work is important. Graphic designers will use their craft in their spare time to create works of art for themselves, practice, friends, and even family. “Every once and a while I’ll find myself playing around in Illustrator (a design program) making designs," said Knauer.

• Garcia added, “I’ll do a lot of backgrounds for my personal computer. You don’t have anything to back you up, the sky is the limit.”