What does it take to be a graphic designer?

Question

I really like the idea of being a graphic designer, but i'd like to know what it takes exactly for me to be one. What do i need to know, what kind of skills should i have? Is painting a big part of graphic design?

Answer 1

Every graphic design job I have come across so far requires:

A bachelor's degree in graphic design or similar

Working knowlegde of the latest Adobe software (currently CS3)

Familiarity with Quark (I was told that InDesign is almost the same thing)

In my experience, you are expected to pay attention to details and thrive in a fast-paced environment.

You will probably be making things like brochures, stationery, ads, posters, etc.  

Graphic designers don't paint, although I do some painting on the side once in a while. If you want to do a lot of painting, you should probably look into a different type of job, perhaps an Illustrator?

Answer 2

painting has absolutely nothing to do with graphic design.

I doesn't hurt to be a decent illustrator but even that isn't a requirement.

you will need to know about the treatment of type and it's applicability. you will also need to use type to get ideas across without actually explaining word for word. you will need to know about inks and papers. (types, textures, tones, complimentary colors etc)

you will need to know about photography and imagery. when I went for my degree in visual communications photography was a requirement as well as art history, video, screen printing, serigraphy, typography, color theory and a few others including drawing and painting. these are things to help you understand the design process and participate in it.

my vis com classes taught me how to use photoshop, illustrator, quark, indesign (industry standard apps.)

all of the things you learn getting your degree will culminate to make you a well rounded artist and able to handle virtually any problem or dilemna in the graphics world. (at least that's the hope)

there are some things i left out, but you get the idea. there is a lot that goes into being a graphic artist. but I like it, it's rewarding and fun for me.