Graphic design is the profession of using visual content and compositions to solve problems with their target audience. Messages are communicated through color, form, line, shape, size, space, texture, typography and imagery. Graphic designers usually receive direction from branding strategies and marketing teams.
Graphic design exists in both print and digital worlds. Work can be found in packaging, business cards, logos, posters, fliers, email marketing, websites, etc. The visual identity (logo) is usually the starting point of a graphic design job. From there emotion, story, color palettes, images and other design guidelines are used to build a consistent brand.
The next step is to market the idea/ product. Traditionally this was done with printed materials such as newspapers, magazines, and flyers. Nowadays designers also use social media, email campaigns, Internet browsers and other online websites. The internet has provided many ways to create ads and get feedback from the users. UI/UX designers also market to their clients by creating games, apps, motion graphics, film, trailers, GIF’s and various web banners.
There are many areas of interest for graphic designers to specialize in. Publication designers create layouts for books, newspapers, catalogs and magazines. They use different forms of typography and imagery to help pull the audience into their story. Packaging designers create physical products for consumers. Then there is environmental design. Architecture is combined with landscapes to create ecological and aesthetic harmony using murals, exhibition displays and signage.