Graphic design is a very large umbrella that encompasses several different fields. The main thing to know is that they use visuals and text to communicate ideas. They use typography, color, imagery, and layout to engage with an audience in some way such as persuading, entertaining, or informing. Their main job is figuring out how to make something look good and work effectively for its purpose.
When you hire a graphic artist, whether that be remote or in person, you would need to communicate what type of design you want. It doesn’t need to be a fully fledged idea just a direction and the graphic designer can help you from there.
This video is a great explanation on the reach of graphic designers and all they do:
Posted Nov 29, 2012 by PBSoffbook
Here are just a few of the different fields that a graphic designer can specialize in:
Packaging Design
Brand Identity/Logo Design
Web Design
User Interface/Experience (UI/UX)
Print Design (posters, business cards, brochures)
Advertising and Marketing Design (ads, social media)
Graphic designers can also make a few different forms of income:
One main form is commission work, this means being hired on a case-by-case basis to do different design projects. A designer can specialize in one type but can also be versatile.
Another main form is a full time position, this means being hired by a company as a designer and doing design work for them, usually for a specific field.
Monetizing their personal art by selling art prints or merchandise such as pins, bags, and shirts. This is more common for illustrative designs.
Creating a snail mail club. This is a reoccurring form of income as it is subscription based. Usually includes an art print or postcard, stickers, and other goodies such as bookmarks or small calendars.
Conventions and convention booths. Another place to sell physical art, but can also get their name out there to a receptive audience fast.
Digital products. Some examples include digital downloads, procreate brushes, and Canva/Photoshop templates.
Niche design services such as stream packages for Twitch/YouTube or character sheets for Dungeons & Dragons.
