Should You Become a Graphic Designer? Is design right for you? Pros & Cons, What to Expect, & more!

Thinking about getting into graphic design? If you want to become a graphic designer, web designer, or UI/UX designer, this video will tell you what to expect in a design career, pros & cons of working as a designer, as well as things you must LOVE in order to be successful as a designer. Being a professional designer is not for everyone; watch this video to find out if it's right for you!
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ABOUT THIS CHANNEL
The goal of this channel is to teach you what you need to know about being in the design industry, whether you are a student or starting your career as a traditional graphic designer or going into tech as a UI/UX designer. I cover education, finding a job, what to expect on the job, and how to be successful. Have a topic request? Leave it in the comments!
ABOUT ME
I'm Christine Maggi, a multidisciplinary designer with experience in graphic design, UI design, UX design, advertising, and copywriting. I love sharing what I've learned over the years about working as a designer with high school students, college students, or anyone looking to work in the design industry.

[@yudv45]

Graphic Design is Solving Problems, with a lot of imaginative thinking. I'd say its an artistic way of solving a problem.

[@Phoenix-gz9xb]

My fear is getting a job where the creative director ask me to do something I dont know how to do. I do graphic design and motion graphics at the moment. I graduate next year

[@DesignGal]

Hey there! No one knows how to do everything, especially when you are just starting out. The important thing is if you can learn, even if you learn by trying something for the first time. I wouldn't worry about it so much and focus instead on what you DO know how to do and what value and fresh ideas you can bring to a company. Good luck!

[@ninaschaefer9848]

This is what I needed to know. Thank you so much!

[@user-dy7ip8qq3e]

I am a graphic designer,I was studying art for 5 years from now :) I believe that graphic designer it's some form of art,even tho minimalistic :) If you ask random person on the street to do your logo (person who is not into art) and he will probably show you something really unproffecionall and that's becouse he doesn't have anything to do with art :) I believe that you need artistic mind for it ,now I am artist,digital artist and graphic designer :) kisses,thank you for your perspective :)

[@reaganfields]

this is hands down the most informative video i have ever watched. i’ve been so stressed trying to decide if design is the right career path for me and your video has 100% calmed my nerves!!! thank you so much ♥️

[@DesignGal]

Wow! That's such a great compliment, thanks so much! If you have a passion for design, GO FOR IT! It's fun, challenging, and very rewarding. Excited for you!

[@Ice23Breaker]

You said that to be a designer one needs innate talent + technical education. I think that practice and education is what makes a designer and not their talent. Yes, it is easier if you intuitively know what looks good, but everybody can learn that if you are willing to put in the effort.

[@DesignGal]

I agree with you! It is certainly easier if you come out of the gate with a great designers eye, but most of us (myself included) need education and practice, as you say. No one knows it all and everyone can improve, it's all about continuing to learn and grow as a designer and being willing to put in that work! Thanks for watching :)

[@dinkc925]

As someone who started observing and drawing as a young child and who has a bachelor's degree in Graphic Design and who has a long career as a designer and Art Director, I've seen first hand that those persons who have special, innate talent, time and time again, rise above the rest. These designers are the ones who have long-lasting, rewarding careers and who have a portfolio full of outstanding work and are competitive in the job market. Much of what a designer does is under time pressure and to you must have the skills and, equally if not more important, the talent to please a variety of clients and account people. Innate talent helps immensely in solving problems creatively, beautifully and quickly and under ridiculous deadlines. It has been very obvious when someone doesn't have it in the business. Clients who don't have a design background sense immediately if the work is not up to par. You can't fake it, and if you attempting to fake it, you will be secretly be considered a hack by the leaders of the creative department and more of an executor than a creative thinker and designer. Without innate talent, you can learn how to use the tools of design and design principles but there isn't a class that you will learn the talent that is required for greatness.

[@Jay-kx5cb]

That and everything else made by man

[@YuLi-ot6go]

Such helpful insights thanks!

[@learninchunks]

Thanks for your guidance. Would like keep you hearing. Keep posting :)

[@naikeylenescat3798]

Hey girl ! I love your videos. You have truly helped me find my career path even though I was nervous and I don’t know anything yet I am excited!

[@DesignGal]

YAY! I love hearing that! That is exactly why I'm doing this! So excited for you :)

[@kamo8741]

Perfect job for an INFJ personality type. They want to help others, they can be creative and they have great communication skills despite being an introvert. Do you agree?

[@DesignGal]

You're so right! I'm ENFJ and that's also perfect for design in my opinion. 🤗

[@javholmes]

I just stumbled across your comment while considering graphic design and wow! I'm surprised that you actually got my personality type correct. Hoping to be a graphic designer in the future and I'm searching for college courses for design.

[@kamo8741]

@@javholmes That's awesome. I wish you luck finding a suitable course and eventually becoming who you want to become. I personally gave up on that idea after some more research; I decided it's not for me. I shifted towards programming/game development instead. Cyber-security is also one of the more appealing options.

[@jillchao-shengli352]

Just came across another of your video a couple days ago, then I subscribed your channel right away! This is so helpful! Thank you so much!

[@DesignGal]

Thanks for the sub!

[@deusvult2553]

Awesome content Christine! Helped me a lot :)

[@DesignGal]

Glad you found this helpful, Liam!

[@ThatSkaterGuyy]

This is great stuff! This will be so valuable to kids in high school or college. Keep it up!

[@DesignGal]

Thank you, Cameron! I plan on keeping it up and I do hope to help high school or college students for sure! :)

[@courtneyvandiver6170]

I love how you went though the cons first

[@foundation2375]

So helpful video! Thank Author to this content!

[@DesignGal]

Glad this was helpful to you!

[@anagb9325]

I want to make a drastic career change from Biochemistry to Design and your channel is being really helpful for discovering the different areas and how the design world is like. I first watched a video of yours a year ago and now I am seriously considering getting into a design school in my city. Thank you so much for your videos Christine!

[@DesignGal]

Wow that's so cool! Good luck to you, let me know how it goes :)

[@gabrielaquinonespadilla8618]

hii, this sounds like me. Everyone is telling me i shouldn’t do it. Ik it’s been 3 years. How is it been for you ?

[@anagb9325]

@@gabrielaquinonespadilla8618 I'm actually currently working as a graphic designer! I joined a one year course of design at a local school which was very strongly focused on building a portfolio (it was pretty intense and took a lot of work) and later joined another course on editorial design. Since my school is in touch with some companies, I was offered a position by a company interested in my portfolio about a year and a half after everything started. I know how frustrating it can be to study/work in a field that it's not fulfilling to you, so I'd start small and give a try. It's definitely possible if you have the time, resources and energy to focus on building your skills. There are a ton of online resources to get started and a lot designers don't even join a school -in my case it was a good way to get in touch with potential employers and have a network. I don't know if you're a Spanish speaker (responded in English just in case), but there's this Spanish youtuber called mohe who also radically changed careers and started graphic design, and talks a lot about this topic. I hope this was useful somehow, best of luck :))

[@kathleen_fung_]

I like how authentic you shared your ideas

[@DesignGal]

Thanks, Kathleen!

[@ashish3saxena]

You really helped me. I'm about to start Graphic Designing. Thank you. And Subscribed 👌

[@DesignGal]

Thanks for subscribing!

[@JR-wt9ky]

Informative video, thanks!

[@DesignGal]

No problem! Thanks for watching 😀

[@viktoriaseprenyi4117]

Great video, thank you!! :)

[@DesignGal]

Thanks for watching!

[@jacobtran4010]

Thank you so much. I went back to watch this video and take it seriously. This is what college failed to address. And should pay for people like you to help.

[@luisocon1989]

Gracias por tu ayuda !

[@valeriefinnel]

Wow this video was so helpful for me. I've been told by a personality analization test that I should be a graphic designer and I've been nervous about starting something new, but I wanted to have an option in life were I can have more freedom to work from home and to earn income. Of the careers listed that I would be suited for graphic design was the most appealing.

[@DesignGal]

That's great, Valerie! I think you will find graphic design to be very rewarding and you can definitely have the freedom to work from home as a freelancer. Good luck to you!

[@sohelrana-nq8ep]

your information is so help full

[@DesignGal]

Thank you very much Sohel! I make these videos to help :)

[@Kripkee]

great video! thank you.

[@DesignGal]

You are so welcome! Thanks for watching :)

[@madhavan566]

saw all your videos, keep making videos.....thanks

[@DesignGal]

Thanks for watching! Let me know if you have any video requests :)

[@lunaroyale4555]

Good video. I just got accepted into an art school and I'm starting graphic design, so I'm looking at videos to help know what I can expect afterward. Thank you!

[@DesignGal]

Awesome! Way to be proactive. I wish you an amazing art school experience :)

[@miehackhd5027]

This video is amazing, I agree with everything you said, Thanks for making it!!

[@tuqaibrahim9039]

You are great😍

[@SamiUllah-ty1zz]

Wonderful

[@majackslelo827]

Thank you😁

[@kheerahvernithakyster1682]

Hey Design Gal, Im Kheerah 18 year old matriculant, I take art as a subject but the deadlines always frustrate me and make me sick (you prolly think I should get more organized) but it's something that comes naturally for me. I just wanted to say thank you so much for this video it truly has given me an insight to the career and has helped me alot with regards to choosing graphic design as a career choice.

[@DesignGal]

Glad you found this helpful! Good luck to you :)

[@paperspecs]

"Design is solving a problem in a meaningful way" - bingo! Congrats on your channel. Looks like things have taken off for you. Let us know we can help in any way! Keep it up.

[@ivanc.6064]

thank u

[@DesignGal]

Thanks for watching!

[@hossamabdulkareem5366]

I believe the industry pressure need to be mentioned as a con. 1) juggling multiple projects. 2) finishing projects in less than hour as per the continuous nagging of Art Directors. 3) Meeting with clients or client servicing who dont know what they want and they want you you discover why they hate what you made without giving you any kind of thread to work on. 4) A loooooooot of hours of work. So if you value your life think again. 5) Sadistic Art Directors in some agencies. 6) Side hustle is a must after long hours at work if you want to pay the bills and practice. Because agencies wont teach you techniques. 7) Not all companies accept a certain type laid back designer.. it is all about the culture so research before interview or work. 8) Very competitive environment and the market is saturated with designers who will take your job in cheaper salaries.. so you better start finding a good market value.. something unique in you. Good job on this video. However I believe the above is the honest truth of the design world

[@DesignGal]

Thanks for adding your perspective. Sadly I have experienced a lot of what you described, and I kind of touch on some of these in my video "Should You Work in an Agency?". I think a lot of what you described happens particularly for graphic designers working for agencies (which is what I did for a long time). I will say you likely won't experience as much of this working in-house or doing some other kind of design outside of the agency setting. I hope you find something a little better and don't leave the industry!

[@yalewarren9936]

Do we need to practice after work hours for learning skills

[@chrisyoungdesign1342]

If you have studied Graphic design in college/university or self-taught you should know it is categorised as commercial art and design is as much as provocative as art in galleries it is as about creating emotion, form, composition and communicating ideas as well as function on a commercial level the only difference you are doing it for clients. And yes, design is about solving a problem, whether it be visual or 3D or both.

[@muglymae7408]

I saw the pros and cons and I'm still obsessed with knowing more about it. How did you find out design was what you wanted to do? Was it a gut feeling or a realization during a particular class?

[@DesignGal]

For me, it was realizing that what I was already doing for fun in my teens could actually be a career. I plan on doing a video soon on my story and how I get into design. Stay tuned!

[@MEOWalina]

thank you so much for this :) i'm interested in graphic design but i am heavily leaning toward studying illustration. i'm having a hard time choosing which to study because i've heard that design jobs are easier to come by and have more options for different jobs. however, i love to draw and my dream is to create art that is my own style, maybe make some comic books or childrens books, and sell my art printed on products and clothing/etc. at this point i'm thinking i should study illustration and squeeze in some design classes (in my uni and/or online), since i feel like learning basic design will be valuable in doing the things i want to do. ~

[@DesignGal]

My advice is to follow your passion! There is a huge opportunity now for illustrators as we are seeing more and more companies want custom illustration instead of photography now. Basic design wouldn't hurt, but you sound like you really would love illustration! If you become an illustrator you will be sought after for your own style whereas in graphic design you have to follow the style of the client or the project if that makes sense. Good luck to you!

[@CallMeJennyy]

I took web design for 3 years in high school and liked it, but by the third year I had realized that I liked the design aspect rather than the coding/constructing part. I’m thinking of going to college for graphic design and to hopefully get a bachelors. I already have my AA so I would need to transfer, but do you recommend any colleges that offer a bachelors in graphic design? I’ve done some research and it’s sort of hard because a lot of them are either online, private, or only offer it as a certificate/AA or as a minor (at least on the West Coast). I guess what I should ask, is if it makes a difference if you have a bachelors in graphic design vs an AA in graphic design, or a graphic design certificate.

[@DesignGal]

Hey Jenny! It's been a while since I looked at graphic design programs but there are definitely bachelors degrees out there. If you are in CA I know several of the state schools offer them (I got my degree at Cal Poly). As far as what type of degree you might need... it doesn't really matter nearly as much as your portfolio. Generally, the more education, the more experience and therefore a better portfolio but that is not always the case. It depends on your situation and your skill level starting out. Personally, I found a bachelors in graphic design to be super helpful! Good luck :)

[@CookieZ3353]

Where ever you end up, you do not need to spend $100K for a Design degree from an Art/Design school (like the one in San Francisco.) State schools are just as good, if not better at preparing you for the real world.

[@commandoape]

Have you looked up Shillington college? It is a intensive three month course that is set up like a designstudio environment, which gives you a good feel of what it is actually like to work in the field. The course if heavily focused on coming up with creative solutions to projects. I highly recommend it! Go to their homepage and it might give you a better idea of what the school is all about. www.shillingtoneducation.com/us/

[@RexArtTv]

I wm interested

[@rodrigoe.terronesirribarre3673]

Hi. I've been looking for a website with your projects so I can see your graphic design work and give it a like, I'm sure it's great! :D can you send me a behance link or so...? :)

[@venchesterdacosta4339]

I want to step tnto Graphic Designing and this video simplified some basics , thanks a lot. Can you suggest me what other options are there for Graphic designers other than designing logos and UI/UX ?

[@DesignGal]

Sure, there are a lot of specialties within graphic design. Some people are really good at print work which can include anything from branding, advertising, marketing or promotional materials, business collateral, etc. Some are really great illustrators or letterers. Some are more on the digital side and work on websites, apps, and software. Hope that helps!

[@imebre2855]

Thank you very much for this video. I found that all those things suit me. I just have one question, that's really important for me, so I would be really gratefull if someone would answer me: is it late to go to studies in design when I'm 22? :)

[@DesignGal]

Hi there! 22? It is DEFINITELY not too late! You're still quite young and have your whole career ahead of you. If you want to be a designer, I say go for it!

[@SanjogBora]

Thanks for the insightful video, I wanted to ask that I am 16 and thinking of becoming a graphic designer( i have my website: www.sanjogbora.com)but I am not sure that should I take up the line as I am not good at drawing or major neither I am too creative. Should I take design as a career?

[@DesignGal]

You do not have to be good at drawing to be a designer! I am not a good drawer myself. There are many types of designers and a lot of them don't require drawing ability. If you're passionate about it, go for it!

[@pocoloco6544]

Hey..love your vids!!I would want to become a graphic designer that works for companies who need me to design a logo or something that makes me use graphic design. What software would I need to graphic design and what computers or laptops do I need to help me graphic design???Last but not least, what classes can I take at highschool for graphic design??

[@DesignGal]

Hi there! That is so cool you are in high school... I actually didn't even know what graphic design was until 11th grade! For graphic design, I would suggest learning the Adobe Creative Suite programs like Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Your school might have access to these programs. If your school offers any art, design, or web classes that would be a great start! Good luck :)

[@pocoloco6544]

Design Gal - Christine Maggi ..Thank you!!I will take this class in my 11th grade and also, what are the different types of graphic designer. Is it in this video I can watch because I didnt watch all of video cause I had to do something important. Thamks for replying to me!

[@DesignGal]

Try this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oF7am5V4otNsaa8 :)

[@pocoloco6544]

Design Gal - Christine Maggi ..Thank you so much!!

[@shyguyx1219]

I think a graphic designer can be an artist though. Just not all the time but they can be.

[@DesignGal]

Hello! Thanks for the comment. I agree that sometimes graphic design can be used as an artistic medium. In this video, I'm mostly talking about doing graphic design professionally in which you trade your services to a client or company for money. In that case, they are paying you to solve a problem. But graphic designers can absolutely make work that is artistic all on their own, and if that were the case I would call it art too!

[@CookieZ3353]

Check out NateDuval.com . He silkscreens band posters and sells them at music festivals such as Bonnaroo and South by Southwest and makes a good sum of money, too.

[@DapperHesher]

@@CookieZ3353 Technically, they're hiring artists at that point (speaking as a designer who's done 'art' for band flyers with zero creative direction... i.e.: "Hey, be an artist. Do what you want, I'll pay you"). I don't think people understand what design is anymore, including "Design Gal" who thinks design is strictly placating the client, and strictly digital. The term has been so bastardized at this point that it has close to nil meaning. Engineers have molested it, marketers have co-opted it, consumers have neutered it, people calling themselves "designers" have careerified it. Basically, power has been taken from design, which comes from a place of polymaths... and powerless design is anything but.

[@midnightmist5246]

This was extremely helpful! I really wish to become a graphic designer. I have a burning question I really want to find the answer to. You mentioned realationship building, I am an extremly shy person, would an introvert be okay in this kinda career?

[@sophieanjuli4616]

@Midnight Mist I wouldn't rule it out as a career for that kind of reason :) I think it depends entirely on the studio / agency you work for. If you don't have any contact with the client and everything is done through project managers, it shouldn't be a problem. There are a lot of studios where that is the case, especially the bigger ones. However if you reguarly have to give presentations of your work to clients, or colleagues, and you have to explain your design choices to them, or pitch concepts, maybe that will be difficult for you. You will probably get practice at it at University though, so plenty of time to improve and grow.

[@DesignGal]

Hi there! I think Sophie gave a really good answer to your question :) I actually know a lot of designers who are shy and they do really well! It does depend on the type of work setup you have. If you are a freelancer, you will have to pretty much do all the relationship building yourself. If you work for an agency, you may face clients directly or like Sophie mentioned, some have the project managers do most of the client interactions instead. It does get easier over time, I promise! If you are really wanting to become a designer, don't your introvertedness that stop you! It's actually a really good thing-introverts are great listeners and observers which are HUGELY important skills to have for design. I hope that helps, good luck!

[@midnightmist5246]

@sophie Anjuli @Design Gal - Christine Maggi Thank you guys so so much! You have no idea how much that helps! I can finally into it more calmly knowing that my shyness wont interfere too much. It really means a lot to me to get to hear how that goes! Its been a huge question I've been dwelling over and your words are the best thing I could hear!

[@larak5524]

Should I pick architecture or graphic design...I'm in a dilemma because I'm scared about employment because in my country is harder to find job.

[@DesignGal]

Only you can answer that question! Good luck.

[@yellowRose806]

Do I need to have excellent drawing skills before joining a design program? I've taken a Basic Design class in high school my senior year and took art seriously and did fantastic. I've taken couple of art classes at my community college and struggled as I advanced. I took 2D design first which was my favorite because it had a lot of acrylic painting. I did decent in Drawing 1 but not great. I had interest in 3D Design and Ceramics, but I realized I'm not a sculptor and basically failed. I enjoy art as a hobby, but I don't think I have the perseverance to pursue art and finish things on a deadline. I consider my drawing skills as a beginner. I don't think I'm good enough to do an arts major. I've been out of school for a while so I might need to retake some classes and work on my skills.

[@DesignGal]

Hi, Rosemary. As I talk about in the video, art and design are different things. That said, art skills can definitely be applied to design. Drawing skills do help at times, especially if you want to do things like logo design or illustration (which isn't necessarily design, but a related field). Personally, I don't have great drawing skills and I've been ok! As long as you are able to sketch out an idea and understand what it means, that's really all you need for most design projects. You will have to meet deadlines, though, as a professional designer. Hope that helps!

[@CookieZ3353]

How to land that first job would be a biggie for me. I'm willing to relocate anywhere to get some experience (except for NYC).

[@DesignGal]

Great idea! Thanks, Carolyn.

[@daisylune9858]

one question, how long does it normally take to create a logo. Do you get a few days or is it like a new design everyday type thing?

[@DesignGal]

Hello! It really depends on where you work. If you are a freelancer, you can work on it until it's done or however long you want. If you are in an agency, it depends on how many other projects you work on at once, what the deadline is, how complex the project is, how responsive your client is, etc. In my experience when designing a logo at an agency, I would get about 4-6 weeks to do it, but that includes various stages of the process where I do a kickoff meeting with the client, lots of sketching and digitizing my sketches, refining the designs into my top concepts, presenting them to the client, and refining their chosen logo. I hope that helps! Thanks for watching :)

[@CookieZ3353]

Is it like the T.V. show, Madmen?

[@NYESOX]

I was a graphic designer for 21 years until the pandemic hit and I finally got out. I am good at it but it was always frustrating.

[@DesignGal]

Why was it frustrating?

[@crismalapitan8730]

❤

[@herdesignworld]

Hey, your doing great! I would love to see your top 5 female graphic designers or other females that inspire you and not the usual Jessica Walsh (who is amazing but she's a celebrity so it's not a good comparison for us normal creatives)

[@DesignGal]

Great idea! I will definitely add this to my list of future videos :) Thanks!

[@herdesignworld]

Design Gal - Christine Maggi thats great! Thank you

[@nicholewenzel3429]

I was a little put off when she said design is not art because art is supposed to make you feel something. Everything is art. Why couldn't design make you feel something? I think that is what makes a great design. When you are able to solve a problem and communicate a message that someone is able to emotionally and personally connect with.

[@DesignGal]

Hi Nichole, I think design can absolutely make you feel something (and it's great when it does), but that's not always its primary purpose. That's only my opinion, though! Thanks for sharing yours :)

[@JoshT4life]

What skills do you need? Illustrator, flash, etc?

[@DesignGal]

Hello! It really depends on what kind of designer you want to be. Of the two skills you mentioned, I would say no one really uses Flash anymore so it's not necessary to know, but Illustrator is really good to know if you want to do any kind of logo or illustration work. I am thinking of doing some videos on some basic skills for different types of designers, so stay tuned!

[@CookieZ3353]

Keep talking about the biz and become an expert on guiding people through the design industry. You've apparently found a great niche for yourself because you're getting great feedback!

[@natasha2786]

Hey, this video was helpful. But I have one question, I'm afraid that I'm not good in drawing nor am I interested in drawing but I'm good in other aspects of this field. So is drawing necessary for this field? Please reply. Thanks :)

[@DesignGal]

Hi Natasha! Drawing is helpful, but definitely not necessary. I personally am not a great drawer... if I spend a lot of time I can copy something decently, but as far as drawing something straight from my head, no way! What's more important is your ability to sketch your ideas out in a way that you can understand what you mean. If you have to polish it up later on a computer, that is totally fine. But rough paper sketches to get out your ideas are very helpful to be able to do for any kind of designer. Hope that helps! Best of luck to you :)

[@natasha2786]

Design Gal - Christine Maggi Thankyou so much :)

[@brandonlw7264]

Can I ask that what is between the interior design, multimedia design and graphic design

[@DesignGal]

Interior design is design for the physical inside of a building, house, etc. Graphic design is the design of visual graphics that can be applied to a variety of print or digital mediums. Mutimedia design can be a lot of things but typically involves using design in a variety of digital and technological mediums (video, motion, web, etc.). Hope that helps!

[@jesutofunmisamueloluwajuwo5869]

pleasant good

[@DesignGal]

why thank you!

[@suzi-ml8ep]

so if i like to "design" or do art for fun and for what I like does that mean I shouldn't do design as a career and just keep it as a hobby? How can I tell the difference of a interest becoming a hobby or career?

[@DesignGal]

This is a REALLY great question, Suzi. I don't think there is one answer for everyone. Some people have design as a hobby and end up making a career of it and it loses some of its fun (this happened to me). Not to say that it's bad because I still love what I do for my job and enjoy the challenges it brings and the satisfaction of helping a client or the end user. Some people have a day job as a designer and then come home and still want to design for themselves because they love it that much and they have the energy for it. It really depends. I think as creative people, we will always need a creative outlet, so whether you design as a job or design as a hobby, you are still fulfilling that need. Or you can be someone like me who does design for a living and finds other creative outlets outside of work. I'm not sure of your situation, but you can always do a couple projects for clients and see how you like it! I like to say to follow your interests because you'll be passionate about it whether it's for a job or not. Good luck, this might be a good topic for a video in the future! :)

[@suzi-ml8ep]

@@DesignGal ok thanks!

[@tzerca]

Can someone tell me clearly the difference between graphic design and art direction?

[@DesignGal]

Graphic design is design specifically for graphics (usually in print/branding applications or advertising). Graphic designers are the ones who actually do the hands-on design work themselves. Art direction is different in that it is not necessarily hands-on with the design work, but more giving guidance of how the design/art should look and feel for the particular project. In many cases, you will have a Creative Director who will oversee the overall creative vision and strategy of a campaign for instance (but it could be any project), then an Art Director who specifically guides/directs the graphic designers on their work in order to achieve this vision. The Art Director may not do the work themselves, or may only step in when necessary. Art Directors can also be used outside of graphic design. You will see them used in photoshoots and other creative projects where someone needs to guide the visuals. Hope that helps!

[@AlwaysDr3aming]

I would say my main question is this: would I be able to do graphic design and make a decent living off of it and provide for a family? I understand that when you're first starting out that you're not going to make all that much cash flow. I also understand that most beginner graphic work is freelance. I totally want to get into graphic design and I'm also interested in learning animation and multimedia in general. However, I'm concerned that I will not be able to do the kind of work I'm interested in and be able to make enough money alone to support a wife and 2+ kids in the future. I'm only 19 but I want to make a smart decision here. Anyone have any kind of advice they could give me? Thanks! :)

[@deen8100]

OfficialDr3am5tep i have the same question and it’s kind of frustrating cause it’s like the only thing keeping me away from this sort of job

[@DesignGal]

Hi there! You're only 19, way to think ahead :) The money you can make as a graphic designer depends on a lot of different things. I know graphic designers who aren't paid a whole lot, and some that are. It depends on the company you work for, what clients you have, how much the company charges, how much you charge if you freelance, where you live and what the going rate is for design in your area, etc. I would suggest looking at rates for designers in your area if you plan to stay there, and look at salary data for the area as well. I know a lot of designers who have families and do just fine! At this stage in life, I wouldn't worry about the money too much-follow your passion and do what excites you and the money will follow. The industry changes SO often that it's hard to even predict where design will be going even in the next 5 years. When I graduated I had never heard of UI/UX and expected to only ever make half as much as I do now... it's really crazy! If making a lot of money is your #1 concern, I would try to follow where tech is going. UI/UX or product design is very lucrative right now and that is definitely where the money is moreso than traditional graphic design. HOWEVER, emerging technologies like AR/VR etc. could prove to be very lucrative as well, especially if you can get into it early and gain experience while it's still new. AR/VR would be great for you too if you are interested in animation/multimedia. Just see what's out there and what people are doing and follow your interests. Design is getting better and better paid as time goes on so I have no doubt you'll be fine. I hope that helps!

[@DesignGal]

Hey dina, see my response to the original question below!

[@CookieZ3353]

You should add this to your video content (can it still be called video even though it's all digital?)

[@rant5664]

Me too.. Initially i choose graphic design. But now I am confused between design and programming, since i know that programmers' salary just like double compares to graphic designers' salary. I'm 17, looking for an university to apply.

[@kishichi6060]

May I ask? How much money do you usually receive?

[@DesignGal]

I did a video about this recently, check it out: kzbin.info/www/bejne/o2m3fGN_iJlmaNk

[@gtillustrated2304]

I would have to kindly disagree on the art not being design part. Even though design is more structured and has rules, I tend to see both of them interchangeably. I'm in my senior year as an undergrad in design school. Currently taking a UI/UX design class, thinking about leaning more towards that direction not only because of the higher salary, but because of the high demand in the industry. Thank you for your videos.

[@DesignGal]

You are 100% entitled to your opinion! Thanks for the comment, and you're right.. UI/UX is where the higher salaries and larger demand is these days. Good luck!

[@darshan0098]

Hi can I email u for some questions related design ?

[@DesignGal]

Sure, [e-mail]

[@arguscore1122]

Isn't design just organized and planned art?

[@DesignGal]

In a sense I suppose you could put it that way, but to me it serves a greater purpose of solving a problem that moves it beyond art. Thank you for your perspective!

[@CookieZ3353]

Great topics. Smile more and get more animated in front of the camera.

[@DesignGal]

Thanks for the comment, Carolyn. This was actually my first video so hopefully I'm getting better at being in front of the camera! It's harder than you think :)

[@-Love-Emma]

Jeez you’re a frickin jerk

[@CookieZ3353]

and you are....a youtube troll??? getting your thrills from passing judgement on a complete stranger???? are you perfect???? if you are, please let me have the pleasure of meeting such a being!!

[@proprioiox-7004]

Graphic design for Intp?

[@DesignGal]

All personalities can be a designer, just play to your specific strengths :)

[@alissay98]

I am scared I am not creative or talented enough to go into design. Does anyone else feel this way?

[@DesignGal]

This is a really common feeling and it is really easy to compare yourself to others. But guess what.. we almost ALL feel this way at one point or another! It helps me to only compare my work with my previous work. Your only competition is yourself, if you think about it. The more you practice, the better you become. We all start at the very beginning and improve over time. It's hard when you see a lot of amazing work out there, but know that they didn't start out making that level of work.. they were able to do it over a long period of time! I don't always feel "creative" but design is less about creativity and more about solving problems. Anyone can be a designer if you work towards it! I hope this helps

[@alissay98]

Thank you so much! This did really help.

[@DesignGal]

I'm so glad! You can do it Alissa!

[@CookieZ3353]

There's always going to be people who think they are bigger shots than they are in any industry, and the women in Design, such as what's-her-name out of NYC--Bring in Da Funk--who can be SO intimidating, but this is the way that I think at 60 years of age going into this industry as a change of career...I am uniquely me, and you are uniquely you. You may have better skills than I do, but I bring a totally different viewpoint to the genre and maybe, just maybe, someone will appreciate my years of experience growing up in the '60's etc. that a Millennial cannot bring to the table. Believe in yourself and don't compare yourself to the 'giants' in the industry. They started at the bottom, too. Louise Fili is a great role model for women.

[@user-dy7ip8qq3e]

If there is no art in graphic designing ,then there will be no graphic designers...Everybody will do the work by themself

[@NEHA-kl9qs]

I am not so creative and I cant draw by myself but if some1 gives me a picture and ask me to draw , I can draw it . Can I be a graphic designer???

[@DesignGal]

Graphic design typically does not involve a lot of realistic drawing unless you are incorporating illustration. Design is a much broader discipline with a set of skills that somewhat overlap with art, but are applied differently.

[@debrapontes6781]

The answer is simple: NO Ainda mais no Brasil, só emprego lixo que paga mal

[@vatch958]

it is hell

[@DesignGal]

hah! I'm curious, why do you say that?

[@vatch958]

Personal reasons.. my creativity isn't full time on and very often i have to force something on paper.

[@Jhihmoac]

You certainly _DO NOT_ need to waste time and useless student loan money securing a degree in this field any longer! Everything you need, including apps, tutorials, and even those puke-inducing "art history and common theories" that were at least a year's time wasted worth of college requirements - are all available either free of charge, or for dirt cheap via the internet, and you can learn at your own leisure!

[@OmegaTech1010]

Annoying voice lol but good video !

[@mohammadjavadsadeghinegad3634]

Not useful👎

[@DesignGal]

Sorry you feel that way, but thanks for watching!

[@mohammadjavadsadeghinegad3634]

Design Gal - Christine Maggi I think that you are disappointed of graphic design Creativity and working on projects for others can't be hard for a designer And also I think that graphic design is absolutely kind of art, cause creating creative designs what looks great can't be easy for anyone But thanks for your video ✊

[@CookieZ3353]

Boo.