Where to learn
There are excellent University and College facilities in the Perthshire
and Tayside area that will provide training in your area of interest.
Courses range from part-time/evening to full-time university degrees.
There are options to diversify into animation, video production and 3d design.
Sh*t copies Talent borrows Genius steals (continued)
Choosing
a graphic designer: Many companies have difficulty choosing a graphic
designer, simply because they are not sure what to look for. Good design
is not about the graphics and page decorations it is about achieving measurable
business goals. For example, increasing profit, customers and reputation.
A formal education is important. Graphic design is a creative art with basic principles that have a direct impact on the effectiveness of how they deal with printed communication. The designers software or choice of computer has little impact on their ability to translate your corporate image or product to print. A competent graphic designer will have variety in their portfolio. The imagery, fonts and layout should be appropriate for each project. For example, large type and colourful images for a children's book. Check their portfolio for evidence of free-riding.
The practise of free-riding occurs when the designer is using the key elements of another original design. Reproducing the design concept with minor changes. This can take the form of recycling work previously produced by the designer or alternatively passing-off another designers ideas as their own. The new client is now paying for costs and development of a previously produced idea. It is possible with this practice the client company will experience customer confusion. Your brand identity has been compromised. Also watch out for designers that deliberately stretch pictures, the photographer spent time framing that image as he intended. Ask why the picture needed to be pulled out of shape.
Personality goes a long way. You choose who you'll work with, work with somebody that makes you feel comfortable and understands your objectives.
