Graphic designers and illustrators (NOC 5241)

Graphic designers and illustrators conceptualize and create images to communicate information.

Want to learn more? Watch this WorkBC Career Trek video and see what it’s like to work in this type of career.

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Graphic designer

WorkBC's Career Trek

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Graphic designers:

• work with clients to establish the overall look, graphic elements and content of communications materials
• determine strategies and the media best suited to produce the desired visual effect and the most appropriate communication materials
• prepare sketches, layouts and graphic elements using traditional tools, multimedia software and image processing, layout and design software
• estimate the cost of materials and time to complete graphic design projects
• use either existing photograph and illustration banks and typography guides, or hire and act as creative directors of illustrators or photographers
• coordinate all aspects of production for print, audio-visual or electronic materials, such as websites, CD-ROMs and interactive terminals
• may also conduct marketing and public relations work, coordinate and manage sub-contracting, and supervise other graphic designers or technicians
• develop the graphic elements that meet the clients' objectives
• establish guidelines for illustrators or photographers

Illustrators:

• work with clients to establish the nature and content of illustrations required
• develop and produce realistic or representational sketches and final illustrations, by hand or using computer-assisted design (CAD) software, for printed material such as books, magazines, packaging, greeting cards and stationery
• research illustration concepts and employ traditional methods such as pen and ink or watercolour for book illustrations
• help develop storyboards for electronic productions such as multimedia, interactive and digital products, and television advertising and productions
• produce 2-D and 3-D animated drawings or computer illustrations

Graphic designers and illustrators usually work in studios or offices, but increasingly work from home. Work hours tend to be Monday to Friday; however, some jobs demand more flexible hours or overtime.

Self-employed graphic designers or illustrators may be required to work longer hours, in part because they want to establish themselves or because they cannot afford to hire assistants or clerical staff. They may also adopt flexible hours in order to meet with clients in evenings or on weekends.

Because graphic artists and illustrators often spend a significant amount of time on computers and do work that requires intense concentration and hand-eye coordination, eye and wrist strain are possible.

Graphic designers and illustrators frequently work hard to meet deadlines, so they need to be able to handle stress.

Most job opportunities will arise within urban centres, where employment is typically more common. Digital animation continues to be a large and growing field. The television and film industry employs a large number of animators. In the illustration field, there is an expanding demand for digital artists; however, there is currently a surplus of artists to fill these positions.

An increasing desire for visual and “brand” appeal for information, goods and services means that graphic designers and illustrators will be wanted by product designers and by advertising and marketing firms. As a result, more and more designers are undertaking marketing and public relations work.

Specialized services in urban centres, including Flash web designers, Web 2.0, dynamic web developers, and in particular, sustainable design practitioners, are in demand. Sustainable design practice is relatively new, but growing quickly, so there is currently a demand for knowledge in this area for consultants and designers alike.

Many short (one year or less) training programs are offered. However, graduates from these programs do not fare as well in the labour market, since candidates with more extensive education have a greater chance of being hired.

Individuals beginning a career as an illustrator may wish to consider joining an illustrator or graphic arts organization for access to workshops, peer mentoring and opportunities for employment-related networking.