Graphic design is a constantly evolving industry. There are always new things to be learned, even if you have been doing it for many years. You can find a wide range of guides, books and lectures. It’s worth trying them out. This article looks at 13 tips to improve as a graphic designer.
But they aren’t your only option. We have put together a list with 13 tips for improving your craft. Not only will you be able produce better work, but also manage client work more effectively.
1. Explore Art Styles
You’re constantly changing your methods of working and techniques as a graphic artist. Your success depends on it.
It’s recommended that you experiment as much as possible. It may be difficult at first, but since you will be doing this by yourself, it is okay to fail.
You should not limit yourself to just trying new styles. It is important to master the styles. You won’t have the time to test everything. Make a list and study popular styles that you may need.
2. Change your grid style
Grids are the foundation for your work. Grids can influence what you are able to do.
can experiment with different grids. You will be able expand your horizons.
3. Choose A Niche
You could specialize in a particular style, even though learning new styles would allow you to handle more clients. You’ll be more efficient if you become an expert.
This will also allow you to improve your craft. You can use this to get your name known when you are good at something.
How can you choose a niche? You will have a powerful arsenal if you choose a niche that is in demand. however, make sure that you choose as your specialization will bring in work for your clients. You know that some specialties are more in demand than others.
Photographic work, for example, has seen a rise.
4. Styles: Be upfront with your style
There are three main categories of graphic design. There are:
- Photographs
- Image
- Type-based
You can select from a variety of art styles to specialise in. Having experience in several art styles is also useful. Before they begin, the best graphic designers consider their style so that they can avoid trial and error.
5. Create detailed drafts
Before you start a project, you probably draft a few ideas. How do you make them? A pen and paper for quick drafts will be faster than digital software.
Make them as detailed as possible. This would allow you to fully explore your ideas before investing in anything that does not work.
It is a good idea to make thumbnails for the design that you are aiming for, and to place the colours in a rough order. This would help you to visualize what your vision will look like.
6. Work with someone who is more skilled
Why not work together with people you have met in the industry? You can add contacts to your portfolio. It is important to show clients you are a good networker, and collaboration will allow you to refine your craft.
You can collaborate with someone who has more experience. You will learn new skills and get out of your comfort zones. In the process, you’ll also learn their techniques.
The collaboration will also open your eyes to the expert’s point of view.
7. Apply for an Internship
It is possible that this point does not apply to all designers. If you are a beginner, it is advisable to apply for an internship. But don’t go anywhere. Be sure the company is well-respected.
You will be taught by experts on the subject. You will also be taught how to deal with the business aspect of the industry.
The work environment is important, too. You can get a better idea of what you should expect if you do some research on a company. In a toxic workplace, you won’t be in a position to take advice. Unfortunately, the bigger names are often like this.
8. Upgrade Your Gear
The tablet that you own directly influences the quality work you will be able to create. If you need to plug your tablet into a monitor for it to work, then an upgrade is needed. There are some standalone models available.
Be sure to know the release date. The newer standalone drawings tablets have better RAM, vibrant displays, comfortable styluses and drawing apps like Procreate. These are the best ones.
Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is a good option. It can be used as a minicomputer by plugging in a keyboard. The processor and memory of the device would allow you to load Photoshop software efficiently.
9. Upgrade Your Software
You should be aware that software can affect your designs, especially if you are a beginner. Software is constantly updated, such as Adobe Photoshop Elements 2020, which will be released soon.
Some of these programs, such as Adobe Illustration and sketch, are excellent for designing logos and user interfaces. Photoshop is best for photo editing. It has been mentioned that switching between different software and creating art would be easier if you had a tablet.
10. Manage Tasks
You can use project management software to make your life easier, whether you have a lot of work or not. There are a lot of project management software around. Scoro is the best. Asana and Workzone also come in at a close second.
You will be able organize projects based on their due dates and be always on top of the situation. This would be a great tool for clients.
11. Extend Your Portfolio
Your portfolio will determine your success. might not be enough, even if you have a lot of work. The client can be very picky and will want to see everything.
The art world is aware that styles can change, and what you choose to display may not reflect what you are capable of doing today. Try to update the as little as possible.
Your work will attract more attention if it is more diverse.
12. Redo Your Portfolio
What is your available time? Try to redo your Portfolio if you have the time. You should put your best work in your portfolio. You can learn a lot by looking back at your work and analyzing what you did well.
It is good to do it every now and again. How often should you do it? As mentioned, your art style might change over time. At the end of every year, you can review your art.
13. Do Variants
It won’t improve your skills or workflow, but it will satisfy your client. Isn’t it this that matters most at the end?
Create two or three options for them so they can choose the best one.
You will save time by not having to re-do the request.
Final Thoughts
Graphic design is a field that changes every few years. There are many things you can learn, whether you’re a professional or a beginner. You will not only be able handle business better, but also improve your craft.
To improve your skills, you should be more adventurous. You can try out new projects by learning new styles. Grid-work is another option that will allow you to work on different things.
It is also important to consider the quality of your tab. How did you achieve great results with a poor-quality tablet? You can attach keyboards to standalone devices like the Surface Pro and iPad Pro, making them computers. With the Surface Pro, you’ll have no problem using professional design software such as Illustrator and Procreate. You can also use editing software such as Adobe Photoshop.
Make sure the tab is brand new. New ones would have better memory and processor.
Do not forget to critique yourself and continue improving your skills. While you’re at the same time, expand your portfolio and redo your best work. This would help you greatly improve and make you stand out. It can help you to attract more clients.
