How to Start Earning Online Doing Graphic Design

Fancy yourself an artist? You could be earning some cash online!

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Graphic design is the art and practice of creating visual content to communicate information and ideas. This includes using typography, images, color, and layout to create designs for a variety of mediums such as websites, advertisements, logos, packaging, books, and more. The purpose of graphic design is to convey a message or idea in an effective and visually appealing way. It is a field that requires creativity, technical skills, and a good eye for design.

The demand for graphic designers has been steadily increasing over the past few years, and it is expected to continue growing in the future. This is due to several factors, such as the rise of digital media, the need for businesses to have a strong online presence, and the importance of visual communication in marketing and advertising. With more companies and individuals looking to create eye-catching designs for their products and services, there is a high demand for skilled graphic designers who can bring their ideas to life. As a result, graphic design has become a popular career choice for those interested in art and technology.

Why graphic design is a good career choice 

Graphic design is a great career choice for various reasons. Here are some of the most significant reasons:

1. High demand: The demand for graphic designers is high and continues to grow as businesses seek to create strong visual identities and engaging marketing materials.

2. Creative expression: Graphic design offers opportunities for creative expression, allowing individuals to express themselves artistically while also solving communication problems through effective design solutions.

3. Flexibility: Graphic designers can choose to work in a variety of industries and settings, from advertising agencies to in-house design departments, giving them the freedom to find a niche that aligns with their interests.

4. Advancement opportunities: As a graphic designer gains more experience, they can advance to positions such as art director or creative director, leading teams and overseeing larger projects.

5. Technology-driven: Graphic design is a technology-driven field, which means that it is constantly evolving and offers ongoing opportunities for learning and growth.

Graphic design is an excellent career choice for individuals who enjoy being creative, solving problems, and working with technology.

Skills needed for graphic designing 

A. Knowledge of design software 

One of the most essential skills for graphic designing is knowledge of design software. Graphic designers use a wide range of software tools to create designs, manipulate images and graphics, and produce digital artwork. Here are some of the most commonly used design software:

1. Adobe Creative Suite: This suite includes a number of different software programs, including Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and others that are essential for creating and manipulating digital graphics.

2. Sketch: This popular software tool is often used by web and mobile app designers to create user interfaces and other digital designs.

3. CorelDRAW: This software is often used by graphic designers to create vector graphics, such as logos or illustrations.

4. Canva: Canva is an online design platform that allows users to create a wide range of graphic designs, from social media posts to marketing materials.

It's important for graphic designers to have a strong understanding of the capabilities and limitations of these software tools in order to create effective designs. Along with technical skills, graphic designers also need to have a good eye for design and be able to think creatively to come up with unique and engaging visual solutions.

B. Understanding of color theory 

Having a solid understanding of color theory is an essential skill for graphic designers. It allows them to create designs that are visually appealing and effective in communicating their intended message.

Some of the specific skills related to color theory that graphic designers should possess include:

1. Knowledge of color properties: Graphic designers should be familiar with the properties of different colors, such as hue, saturation, and brightness. This knowledge can help them choose the right colors for a project and adjust them as needed.

2. Color mixing: Understanding how to mix colors is another important skill for graphic designers. They should know how to combine different hues to create new colors, as well as how to adjust the saturation and brightness of each color.

3. Color psychology: Knowing how different colors can affect people's emotions and behavior is crucial for creating effective designs. Graphic designers should have a basic understanding of color psychology and how it can be used to communicate certain messages.

4. Color contrast: The ability to create contrast between different colors is key to making designs stand out. Graphic designers should understand how to use complementary colors, analogous colors, and other techniques to create effective contrast in their designs.

Having a strong foundation in color theory is essential for any graphic designer looking to create impactful designs that resonate with their audience.

C. Creativity and attention to detail 

Creativity and attention to detail are two critical skills that all successful graphic designers must possess. These skills allow designers to take a concept or idea and transform it into a visually stunning design that meets the client's expectations.

1. Creativity: Graphic designers must have a creative mind to come up with unique ideas for every project they work on. They should be able to think outside the box and create designs that stand out from the competition. A designer's creativity is what makes their work engaging, memorable, and effective.

2. Attention to Detail: Attention to detail is another crucial skill that graphic designers must possess. Designers need to pay close attention to every element of their design, including typography, layout, color, imagery, and more. Even the smallest mistake can negatively impact the overall design, so designers must be meticulous in their work and strive for perfection.

3. Problem Solving: Graphic designers are problem solvers by nature. They need to take a client's vision and translate it into a visual solution that meets the client's needs while still being aesthetically pleasing. Often this requires thinking creatively to overcome challenges such as budget constraints, tight deadlines, and technical limitations.

Creativity and attention to detail are essential skills for any graphic designer. A combination of these skills, along with strong communication and technical abilities, can help designers produce high-quality work that exceeds their clients' expectations.

D. Communication skills 

Communication skills are critical for graphic designers, as they work closely with clients, team members and other stakeholders throughout the design process. Strong communication skills can help designers understand their clients' needs, clarify project requirements, and collaborate effectively with others.

Here are some reasons why communication skills are vital for graphic designers:

1. Understanding client needs: Designers must have excellent communication skills to understand what their clients want. By actively listening to their clients and asking thoughtful questions, designers can gain a better understanding of the project's goals and objectives.

2. Collaborating with team members: Graphic design projects often involve multiple team members working together. Strong communication skills can help designers collaborate more effectively with copywriters, illustrators, photographers, and other professionals involved in the project.

3. Presenting design concepts: Designers need to explain their design concepts and ideas to clients and other stakeholders. Good communication skills can help designers articulate their vision effectively, showcase their design solutions, and receive constructive feedback.

4. Managing feedback: Constructive feedback is crucial for creating successful designs. Designers must be able to receive feedback from clients and stakeholders without becoming defensive or dismissive. With strong communication skills, designers can manage this feedback more effectively and make the necessary adjustments to their designs.

Communication skills are essential for graphic designers to succeed in their profession. By developing excellent communication skills, designers can better collaborate with team members, understand client needs, present design concepts, and manage feedback to produce high-quality work that meets client expectations.

Building the necessary equipment 

A. Computer 

A computer is a critical piece of equipment for graphic designers, as most design work is done digitally. Here are some specifications and considerations when building or selecting a computer for graphic design:

1. Processor: A powerful processor is essential for handling complex design software and multi-tasking. Look for a computer with a fast processor such as Intel Core i7 or i9 or AMD Ryzen.

2. RAM: Graphic design software can be memory-intensive, so having enough RAM (Random Access Memory) is crucial. Typically, 16GB or more is recommended.

3. Graphics card: A dedicated graphics card is necessary for running design software smoothly and efficiently. Look for a graphics card with at least 4GB of VRAM (Video Random Access Memory), such as Nvidia GTX or AMD Radeon.

4. Storage: Large files, such as high-resolution images and videos, require ample storage space. Consider a computer with an SSD (Solid State Drive) for faster file loading times.

5. Display: A high-quality display is necessary for accurate color representation and detailed image editing. Look for a monitor with a resolution of at least 1920 x 1080 pixels and a wide color gamut.

6. Peripherals: Other important peripherals include a comfortable keyboard, a quality mouse, and a graphics tablet for precise drawing and sketching.

A powerful computer with adequate RAM, a dedicated graphics card, ample storage, and a high-quality display is necessary for graphic design work. Consider these specifications when building or selecting a computer for your graphic design needs.

B. Design software 

Design software is a critical component for graphic designers, as it allows them to create designs on a digital platform. There are several design software programs available in the market, each with its unique features and functionalities. Choosing the right software can be challenging, but it is essential to ensure that the software meets your needs and requirements.

Adobe Creative Suite is one of the most popular design software suites used by graphic designers worldwide. It contains industry-standard applications such as Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and more. These tools provide designers with the ability to create and edit images, vectors, and layouts, making it an excellent option for designing print, web, or mobile-based projects.

Sketch is another popular design software program that is gaining popularity among designers. It is a vector-based design tool that offers a streamlined interface and intuitive features. Sketch includes an extensive library of plugins, symbols, and customizable grid systems, making it easy to tailor designs to specific needs.

Figma is a cloud-based design tool that allows designers to work collaboratively on projects. It offers excellent collaboration features such as commenting, version history, and real-time editing. Figma also offers a prototyping feature, allowing designers to create interactive prototypes for their designs.

Affinity Designer is a vector-based design tool that provides professional-grade features such as non-destructive editing, customizable brushes, and export options. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy to learn and use, making it an excellent option for beginners and professionals alike.

CorelDRAW is another vector-based design tool that provides many of the same features as Adobe Illustrator. The software also includes bitmap editing tools, making it a versatile option for designers working on both vector and raster-based projects.

Selecting the right design software is crucial for graphic designers. Adobe Creative Suite is the industry-standard, but other options such as Sketch, Figma, Affinity Designer, and CorelDRAW can also be excellent alternatives depending on the designer's needs and preferences.

C. Graphic tablet 

A graphics tablet is a specialized input device that allows graphic designers to draw, sketch, and paint directly on a digital canvas. Here are some factors to consider when building or selecting a graphics tablet:

1. Size: Graphics tablets come in various sizes, ranging from small 6 x 4-inch tablets to larger 12 x 9-inch tablets. Consider the size of your desk and how much space you have available for the tablet.

2. Pressure sensitivity: The pressure sensitivity of a graphics tablet determines how accurately it can detect different levels of pressure in your strokes. Look for a tablet with at least 2048 levels of pressure sensitivity for more precise and natural drawing.

3. Connectivity: Graphics tablets can connect to a computer via USB or wirelessly. A wireless connection can offer more flexibility and freedom of movement, while a wired connection may be more reliable.

4. Compatibility: Ensure that the graphics tablet is compatible with the design software you use. Most tablets work with popular programs such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator.

5. Brand: Popular graphics tablet brands include Wacom, Huion, XP-Pen, and Apple. Each brand offers a range of tablets with varying features and price points, so research and compare before making a purchase.

A graphics tablet is an essential piece of equipment for graphic designers, allowing them to sketch and draw digitally with precision and ease. When selecting a graphics tablet, consider the size, pressure sensitivity, connectivity, compatibility, and brand to find the best fit for your needs and budget.

D. Internet connection 

An internet connection is an important aspect of building the necessary equipment for graphic design. Here are some factors to consider when selecting an internet connection:

1. Speed: A fast internet connection is crucial for downloading large files, collaborating with clients and team members, and streaming online tutorials or webinars. Consider a connection speed of at least 25 Mbps for smooth and efficient work.

2. Reliability: A reliable internet connection is essential for uninterrupted work. Look for a provider with a good track record and minimal downtime.

3. Data limits: Some internet plans have data limits, which may be problematic if you regularly download or upload large files. Consider an unlimited data plan if you frequently work with large files.

4. Security: Cybersecurity is critical for protecting sensitive client information and personal data. Ensure that your internet connection has adequate security features, such as firewalls and antivirus software.

5. Cost: The cost of an internet connection can vary widely depending on the provider, speed, and data limits. Compare plans from different providers to find the best balance between cost and features.

Creating your portfolio 

A. Selecting your best works 

When creating a portfolio, selecting your best works is crucial. Your portfolio is essentially a showcase of your skills and expertise, so it's important to choose the projects that demonstrate your strengths in the areas of design you specialize in. However, it's also essential to show diversity in your selection to demonstrate your versatility as a designer.

It's important to focus on quality over quantity when selecting your best works for your portfolio. While you may have worked on many projects, not all of them will be your strongest work. Be sure to carefully curate a selection of projects that truly showcase your skills as a designer.

When choosing which projects to include in your portfolio, consider your target audience. If you're looking to attract clients or companies in a specific industry, tailor your selection to showcase your experience and skills in that area. For example, if you specialize in branding, choose projects that highlight your ability to create effective and visually appealing brand identities.

It's also essential to keep your portfolio up to date by regularly adding your latest and best work. Remove older or outdated projects that no longer represent your current skills and style. This ensures that your portfolio remains relevant and showcases your most recent and impressive work.

Finally, seeking feedback from peers, mentors, or other professionals in the industry can provide valuable insights into your portfolio. They can provide constructive criticism, suggestions for improvement, and help you select the best works that truly showcase your skills and expertise.

B. Organizing and presenting your portfolio

Organizing and presenting your portfolio is just as important as the content of your portfolio itself. Here are some tips on how to effectively organize and present your portfolio:

1. Choose a format: Decide whether you want to present your portfolio in print or digital format. Digital portfolios have become increasingly popular, as they are easily accessible and can be shared electronically.

2. Order your work: Arrange your work in a logical order that makes sense to your audience. This may be chronological or by theme, depending on the type of work you are showcasing.

3. Label your work: Make sure all of your work is clearly labeled with titles, dates, and any other pertinent information.

4. Provide context: Provide a brief explanation of each piece of work, including what it is, why you chose to include it, and what you learned from the experience.

5. Include a table of contents: If your portfolio contains multiple sections, consider including a table of contents to make it easier for your audience to navigate.

6. Keep it concise: Your portfolio should showcase your best work, but don't overwhelm your audience with too much content. Keep it concise and focused on quality over quantity.

7. Design with care: Whether in print or digital format, the design of your portfolio should be visually appealing and professional. Use consistent fonts, colors, and formatting throughout.

Remember that your portfolio is a representation of your skills and expertise. Put time and effort into organizing and presenting it in the best possible way to help you stand out to potential employers or clients.

C. Creating a personal brand 

Creating a personal brand is important for anyone looking to establish themselves in their industry or field. This involves defining who you are, what you stand for, and how you want to be perceived by others. Your personal brand should reflect your unique value proposition, personality, and expertise.

To create a strong personal brand, start by identifying your strengths and values. What are the skills and qualities that set you apart from others? What drives you to do what you do? Use this information to craft a personal mission statement that communicates your purpose and goals.

Next, consider your online presence. In today's digital age, having a professional online presence is essential for building a personal brand. Create a website or blog that showcases your work and expertise, and use social media platforms to connect with others in your industry.

Networking is also a key component of creating a personal brand. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with other professionals in your field. Be sure to present yourself professionally and consistently across all channels.

Finally, remember to live your brand. Your personal brand should be an authentic reflection of who you are and what you stand for. Consistently demonstrate your expertise and values through your work, interactions, and behavior to build a strong and memorable personal brand.

Finding clients 

A. Networking with other designers 

Networking with other designers is an important part of finding clients in the design industry. By building relationships with other professionals in your field, you can learn about new opportunities, collaborate on projects, and share knowledge and resources.

One way to network with other designers is to attend industry events such as conferences, workshops, and meetups. These events provide a great opportunity to connect with other professionals in your field and learn about new trends and best practices.

You can also join professional organizations such as AIGA or Graphic Artists Guild. These organizations offer networking events, resources, and job boards that can help you find new clients and build your reputation in the industry.

Don't underestimate the power of social media for networking. Connect with other designers on platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter, and engage with their content by commenting and sharing. This can help you build relationships and establish yourself as an expert in your field.

B. Joining freelancing websites 

Joining freelancing websites is another effective way to find clients as a designer. These platforms connect freelancers with clients looking for design services, making it easy to find new projects and build your portfolio.

Some popular freelancing websites for designers include Upwork, Fiverr, 99designs, and Freelancer.com. Each platform has its own unique features and fee structures, so it's important to do your research and choose the one that best fits your needs.

When setting up your profile on these sites, be sure to showcase your skills and experience in a clear and compelling way. Use keywords relevant to your niche or specialty to make it easier for clients to find you.

Once you start bidding on projects or receiving invitations from clients, it's important to communicate clearly and professionally throughout the project. Be transparent about your rates and timeline, and deliver high-quality work on time to build a positive reputation and attract repeat business.

C. Using social media platforms 

Using social media platforms is another effective way to find clients as a designer. Social media allows you to showcase your work, build your brand, and connect with potential clients all in one place.

Start by creating profiles on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and use them to share your work and connect with other professionals in your field. Use hashtags relevant to your niche or specialty to make it easier for clients to find you.

You can also leverage social media advertising to reach a larger audience. Platforms like Facebook and Instagram allow you to create targeted ads that reach people based on their interests or demographics. This can be a cost-effective way to advertise your services and attract new clients.

Another way to use social media to find clients is to join groups or communities related to your industry. These groups provide a great opportunity to connect with other professionals and learn about new opportunities or projects.

Managing projects and client relations 

A. Setting expectations 

Setting expectations is an important part of managing projects and client relations as a designer. By being clear and transparent from the start, you can ensure that both you and your client are on the same page and working towards the same goals.

Start by defining the scope of the project in detail. What exactly will you be delivering? What is the timeline for the project? Be sure to clarify any limitations or restrictions that may impact the project, such as budget constraints or technical limitations.

Next, be clear about your role in the project and what you expect from the client. Will you be responsible for all aspects of the project, or will the client be providing input and feedback? Clearly define each party's responsibilities and set expectations for communication and feedback throughout the project.

It's also important to establish clear boundaries and policies around revisions, changes, and additional work. Clearly communicate how many revisions are included in your fee and what your policy is for additional work or change requests.

B. Communicating effectively 

Communicating effectively is essential for managing projects and client relations as a designer. Clear and timely communication can help build trust, manage expectations, and ensure that the project stays on track.

Start by establishing a regular communication schedule with your client. This could be a weekly check-in call or email update, depending on the scope of the project. Be sure to communicate any updates, changes, or challenges as soon as they arise, to avoid surprises or delays later on.

When communicating with your client, be clear, concise, and professional. Use plain language instead of industry jargon, and avoid using technical terms that may not be familiar to your client. When sharing designs or concepts, include explanations or context that help your client understand your thought process or decision-making.

Be responsive and available to your client throughout the project. Respond to emails or messages in a timely manner and be available for meetings or calls as needed. This helps build trust and confidence with your client and ensures that the project stays on track.

Overall, effective communication is a critical component of successful project management and client relations as a designer. By being clear, responsive, and proactive, you can establish a strong relationship with your client and ensure that the project is a success.

C. Delivering quality work 

Delivering quality work is essential for managing projects and client relations as a designer. Your clients are relying on you to deliver work that meets their needs and exceeds their expectations, so it's important to focus on delivering high-quality results.

Start by understanding your client's needs and goals for the project. Ask questions and seek clarification to ensure that you have a clear understanding of what they're looking for. Use this information to guide your design process and ensure that your work meets their specific requirements.

Pay attention to details throughout the project. Check your work regularly to ensure that everything is accurate, error-free, and consistent. Be sure to follow any brand guidelines or style guides provided by the client to ensure that your work aligns with their brand identity.

Be open to feedback and critique from your client. Listen carefully to their feedback and use it to refine your designs and make improvements. Be responsive and respectful in your communications, even if the feedback is critical or challenging.

Be proactive in making sure that your work is delivered on time and within budget. If there are any delays or issues that arise, communicate them to your client as soon as possible and work together to find a solution.

Pricing your work 

A. Determining your hourly rate 

Determining your hourly rate is an important part of pricing your work as a designer. Your hourly rate should reflect your skills, expertise, and the value you provide to your clients.

To determine your hourly rate, start by calculating your total business expenses for the year, including overhead costs like rent, software subscriptions, and equipment maintenance. Divide this number by the total number of billable hours you expect to work in a year, based on your availability and desired income.

Next, consider your level of experience and expertise. Designers with more experience or specialized skills may be able to charge a higher hourly rate than those just starting out. Research industry standards and compare your rates to other designers with similar experience and skill levels to ensure that you're pricing competitively.

Consider the scope and complexity of the project when setting your hourly rate. Projects that require specialized skills or extensive research may warrant a higher rate than simpler projects.

Finally, be transparent with your clients about your hourly rate and how it's calculated. Provide a detailed breakdown of your fees and make sure that they understand what's included in your quote.

C. Offering packages 

Offering packages is another approach to pricing your work as a designer. Packages can provide clients with a clear understanding of what they'll receive for a set fee, and can help simplify the pricing process for both you and your client.

When creating packages, consider the different types of services you offer and the needs of your target market. For example, you might create a branding package that includes logo design, business card design, and brand guidelines, or a website design package that includes website development and ongoing maintenance.

Be sure to price your packages fairly based on the value you're providing to the client. Consider the time and resources required to complete each service included in the package, and factor in any additional costs such as stock photos or software subscriptions.

Make sure that your packages are clearly defined and easy to understand for your clients. Provide a detailed breakdown of what's included in each package and what the client can expect to receive. This will help avoid confusion or misunderstandings down the line.

Finally, be open to customization or additional services as needed. Clients may have unique needs or preferences that aren't covered by your standard packages, so be flexible and willing to adjust your offerings accordingly.

Continuously improving your skills 

A. Learning new design techniques and trends 

Learning new design techniques and trends is essential for continuously improving your skills as a designer. The design industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies and trends emerging all the time.

To stay up-to-date with the latest design techniques and trends, start by reading industry publications and blogs. Subscribe to design magazines, follow influential designers on social media, and attend conferences or workshops to learn from experts in your field.

Consider taking online courses or tutorials to learn new techniques or software programs. Platforms like Skillshare and Udemy offer a wide range of design courses that can help you expand your skillset and stay current with the latest trends.

Another way to learn is through experimentation and practice. Take on personal projects or challenges that push you outside of your comfort zone and allow you to try out new techniques or styles. This will not only help you improve your skills but also build your portfolio and showcase your versatility as a designer.

Seek feedback and critique from other designers or mentors. Sharing your work with others can help you identify areas for improvement and get new ideas and perspectives.

C. Receiving feedback from clients 

Receiving feedback from clients is a crucial component of continuously improving your skills. By listening to and analyzing feedback from clients, professionals can identify areas where they can improve and make adjustments accordingly. This can lead to increased client satisfaction, improved performance, and ultimately better outcomes for all parties involved. Additionally, seeking out opportunities for professional development and continuing education can also help professionals stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices, further enhancing their skills and abilities.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, as a designer it's important to not only create high-quality work, but also to effectively manage your projects and client relationships. This includes setting clear expectations, communicating effectively, delivering quality work, and pricing your services fairly.

Networking with other designers, joining freelancing websites, and using social media platforms can all be effective ways to find new clients and grow your design business. By building a strong personal brand and establishing yourself as an expert in your field, you can attract new opportunities and build a loyal client base.

Ultimately, successful project management and client relations require a combination of technical skills, creativity, and professionalism. By focusing on these key areas, you can build a successful career as a designer and make a positive impact through your work.