What Is Graphic Design?

You may ask yourself, “what is graphic design,” and have some idea, but many are unaware of its importance in marketing. Graphic design is an art form, but there is a level of science behind the field of study. Generally speaking, graphic design is the process of communicating through graphic elements that are also aesthetically pleasing.

Graphic design is critical when it comes to marketing because businesses want to attract consumers with the right graphics and messages. If just one element is off, then it could tarnish the entire message or scare consumers away. For that reason, graphic designers have to consider a wide range of features that many businesses might skim over.

What Do Graphic Designers…design?

Graphic designers create a variety of graphics for several different mediums. Everywhere you look, you can see evidence of graphic designers at work. There are many types of graphic designers too. Some specialize in product packaging, while others restrict themselves to an entirely digital medium such as websites and phone apps.

Regardless of the medium, the overall reach of graphic designers immense. Below are just a few examples of what graphic designers can dip their toe into:

• user interfaces
• mobile applications
• video game menus
• logos
• billboards
• commercials
• newspaper columns
• movie posters
• terms of service agreements
• letterheads
• magazine covers
• road signs

Each of the mediums above display specific messages to the reader or consumer. The graphic designer needs to find a balance between the message and the design. Using the wrong design approaches for a specific medium results in a failed design. Either the design could overshadow the purpose of the medium or fall short of its expectations.

For example, the graphic design of a contract is going to be more reserved than that of a magazine cover. The design efforts that go into the magazine are strides away from that of a contract or another formal document. The purpose of the medium is a serious consideration for graphic designers. These two different mediums show that exceptionally well.

Considerations When Designing Graphics

Designers have a lot to consider when it comes to creating graphics. As we have already stated, the medium will determine what exactly goes into the design. Below, you can find a list of elements graphic designers consider when approaching a project.

• Typography: The style of the text or written language that is being presented to the reader. Typography requires consideration of line spacing, letter-spacing, typefaces, sizes, and fonts.
• Iconography: Visual symbols or images used to represent a specific image. The National Park Service uses a symbol library to represent a specific message, such as a cross for first-aid or a capital P for parking.
• Illustration: Development of a visual concept that represents a text, action, or concept. Think of illustration as in a child’s book; the images are created after the text to create a visual element that helps the reader understand the story.

Another element graphic designers consider when developing graphics is photography. The manipulation of photos and pairing them with graphics is also within the range of graphic designers. There is a lot to consider when it comes to photography. Plus, the amount of editing you can do with a photo is unrivaled by almost any other visual medium.

It is also important to note that the above concepts have each of their own considerations. We listed the many considerations typography has on design. Iconography, illustration, and photography also have their subcategory of factors designers need to think about.

Stop Asking “What Is Graphic Design” and Start Benefiting

Now that you know what graphic design is, you can start taking advantage of what it has to offer your business. One of the first things you can experience soon after you start your graphic design efforts is consistency across your entire business. Many find themselves with varying graphics and qualities across different mediums. A business may use a lot of stock photos on its website, while everything on its social media is original content. Graphic design can create consistency across all your social channels and online presence.

As your business becomes consistent graphically, it can start establishing an identity that is recognizable by customers. A brand helps you deliver a consistent message and visuals throughout the entire internet. Typically the branding starts at the logo. A great logo is then accompanied by graphics that accent it and compliment the design. At the same time, these graphics should translate well into other mediums like videos, social media posts, and newsletters.

At the beginning of this blog, we told you that graphic design sends a message, and your graphics should certainly meet that criterion. Graphics should present the viewer with a message that the text cannot provide alone. You can use graphics to highlight a specific message or take attention away from another. In either case, graphics have the ability to communicate with your customers, which helps your business gain their interest.

It’s Time to Hire a Graphic Designer

The importance of a graphic designer cannot be overstated. Your business will see several benefits of hiring a designer for your online presence. Google has stated it doesn’t like stock photos so that you can increase your SEO with a skilled designer. If you are in need of graphic design services, then please contact ASAP Marketing Solutions. Our designers work closely with you to develop original and pleasing graphics that also send messages to consumers. Contact our team today for a free consultation and to learn more about our services.