Graphic Design Career

If you're interested in art, technology, and problem solving, a career in graphic design may meet all your requirements. Incorporating both creative and practical skill sets, a job in the graphic design world can be well paying and satisfying. On the other hand, do realize that any art-related profession can be competitive, and there may be many rungs on the corporate ladder, too.

Traditional graphic design jobs include layout artist and photographer, but thanks to the advancements in computer technology, there are many fields to choose from today. For example, technical illustrator is a fairly new profession, with applications in both the "old" arts, such as filmmaking, and newer ones such as video game design. As with any graphic design job, a technical illustrator aims to find visual solutions in a particular medium.

A tech illustrator may be asked to create three-dimensional images for TV commercials, ads, movies, or--more than ever before--video games. They may also create set designs or storyboards for plays, films, or web-based animations. In this profession, you will be expected to have training in two- and three-dimensional design, layout design, and perspective. Working in digital formats, you must also be versed in computer-based illustration.

A ballpark salary for a technical illustrator is $50,000-$65,000, depending on a number of factors. You may find steady work with a design firm, or, like many other graphic designers, work freelance for ad agencies, publishing houses, or other companies in need of an adjunct illustrator. This field is growing and many positions in film, advertising, television, or video game design can be extremely lucrative.