Aspring Graphic/Web Designer: Advice

talk design
1

Hi everyone,

I’m an aspiring Graphic/Web Designer and I’d like to get involved in Graphic/Web, Animation and Logo design.

So far on my resume I have Photshop, Illustrator, Flash, Dreamweaver, FrontPage under my belt, but I need to know if I need other programs that are essential to building a career in these fields. (I have a BA in CS and minor in Computer Art/Graphic Design and graduated last May 2005)

To be honest, I haven’t gotten into PHP or MySQL as much as I should. What exactly are these programs needed for (I’m thinking they are used for data management such as messageboards, log-ins, etc.). Any background information about these programs and why I may need this would be insightful.

Plus I need a portfolio…Any self-proclaimed graphic designer needs a portfolio and I was wondering if anyone can give me any ideas as to what I need to display on my website in order to stand out.

Websites: Generally,what is the minimum required websites you need? I’ve completed one website (all in flash) and I’m in the middle of doing another website, so that’ll make it two.

Logos: What’s the approach here? Do I make up my own logo designs just to show I have the concept and talent in this area? I’ve created logo designs for two websites, so can I use those as examples?

Animation: I like to do animation (in fact it one of my favorite areas to work in) and I have a one that I am working on right now in Flash.

Anyway, any tips and advice on how to get started and how to prepare, would be much appreciated.

Thanks!

2

ddd i like ur coming soon page. quite intuitive(too tired to spell).

3

Networking is very important as well, through networking I was able to find freelance work and build up my resume. Joining internet groups around your city help too. (ie: mitx.org)

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there ya go

5

well php and mysql arent programs…just stick with html
simple as it is, it works fine. and if you want to php would be easyier to learn.
I think if you know photoshop and flash your set. lol
just come up with a company name design the best portfolio you can add sections of your work like, group them into Photo,vector,logos,websites
and add all of you best work! then advertise in forums and wait for the cash to roll in. good lck

6

I have a choose at the moment wether to choose a more design oriented course or coding.

As my tutor said coders have more jobs and more money than designers.

I think I will go down the more code, route.

I recon as people say, strengthen your coding and have a wizzy interesting site which makes you get noticed.

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Im also just building up my portfolio at the moment!

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Yes they are. They’re just installed and executed on the serverside, and don’t have a GUI :wink:

And yes, learn them. At least PHP. It’s easy, and it’s worth it :slight_smile:

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yes, you need to make a portfolio where you showcase your skills.