How to Become a Self-Taught Graphic Designer 🚀

Summary

This video is a comprehensive guide for aspiring graphic designers, offering valuable resources and tips. It covers three key topics: learning the basics of graphic design, finding free online courses, and building a strong portfolio. The speaker suggests various YouTube channels, websites, and platforms like CreativeLive, Alison, and Canva to learn design skills. Additionally, viewers are encouraged to practice by replicating designs, modifying them, and using platforms like Behance and Dribbble to showcase their work. The video also provides a roadmap for beginners to learn, practice, and succeed in graphic design.

Takeaways

• 😀 Start by learning the basics of graphic design, which includes understanding principles and fundamentals.
• 😀 Learn tools like Photoshop and Illustrator through accessible resources such as tutorials and courses.
• 😀 Practice is essential for improving skills, so focus on building a portfolio through hands-on projects.
• 😀 Recommended channels include GF Mentor, Pixel Perfect, Dope Motion, and Rajeev Mehta for high-quality graphic design tutorials.
• 😀 'The Future' and 'Will Paterson' offer in-depth content on design concepts, branding, and tools like Figma.
• 😀 Sary Graphics is a great resource for logo design tutorials with advanced content not often available in courses.
• 😀 CreativeLive offers free courses on topics like color theory, time management, and design patterns for graphic designers.
• 😀 Websites like Kaypro and Canva offer free courses and tutorials, while Canva's own design school is a valuable resource.
• 😀 Alison.com provides free courses with certifications and diplomas, offering a comprehensive learning platform for graphic designers.
• 😀 Building a portfolio involves practicing by copying existing designs, modifying them, and creating new designs based on brief requests from platforms like Good Brief.
• 😀 Platforms like Behance and Dribbble are excellent for showcasing portfolios, potentially leading to client opportunities.

Q & A

What are the main topics covered in the video?

The video covers three main topics: 1) Free resources for learning graphic design, 2) How to practice graphic design, and 3) How to build a portfolio as a graphic designer.

Why is it important to start with the basics in graphic design?

Starting with the basics is essential because it helps to understand fundamental principles and tools. This foundation is crucial for effective design and ensures that more advanced concepts can be grasped easily later.

What are some recommended YouTube channels for learning graphic design?

Some recommended YouTube channels include GF Mentor, Pim Perfect, Dope Motion, Rajeev Mehta, The Future, Will Paterson, and Saru Graphics. Each channel provides a variety of tutorials on design tools, principles, and concepts.

How can one practice graphic design to improve their skills?

To practice graphic design, one should work on creating a portfolio. Start by copying designs from experts, then modify them to make them unique. This allows for learning by doing, and as you improve, your designs will become more original.

What are some websites where you can learn graphic design for free?

Some free resources for learning graphic design include CreativeLive, Canva Design School, Pro.com, and Alison.com. These platforms offer free courses and tutorials on various aspects of graphic design.

How does CreativeLive help in learning graphic design?

CreativeLive offers a variety of design courses, including topics like color theory, design patterns, time management, and specific tools like Illustrator and Adobe InDesign. These classes are taught by industry experts and are available for free.

What is the significance of building a portfolio as a graphic designer?

Building a portfolio is crucial for showcasing your skills to potential clients or employers. It allows you to display your best work and helps in attracting new opportunities in the graphic design field.

Where can you showcase your graphic design portfolio?

You can showcase your portfolio on platforms like Behance and Dribbble. These websites are widely used by creative professionals to display their work and connect with potential clients or collaborators.

What is the 'copy and modification' method in practicing design?

The 'copy and modification' method involves copying an existing design to understand how it works, then modifying it to reflect your unique style or ideas. This method helps build skills while encouraging creativity and originality.

How can you get feedback on your design work?

You can get feedback on your design work by sharing it on portfolio platforms like Behance or Dribbble. Engaging with other designers and clients can provide constructive criticism that helps improve your designs.