I create visual concepts, by hand or using computer software, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, or captivate consumers. I develop the overall layout and production design for advertisements, brochures, magazines, and corporate reports. Graphic design is important in the sales and marketing of products and is a critical component of brochures and logos. Therefore, graphic designers, also referred to as graphic artists or communication designers, often work closely with people in advertising and promotions, public relations, and marketing.

I combine art and technology to communicate ideas through images and the layout of websites and printed pages. I use a variety of design elements to achieve artistic or decorative effects. I work with both text and images. I often select the type, font, size, color, and line length of headlines, headings, and text. I also decide how images and text will go together on a print or webpage, including how much space each will have. When using text in layouts, I collaborate closely with writers who choose the words and decide whether the words will be put into paragraphs, lists, or tables. Through the use of images, text, and color, graphic designers can transform statistical data into visual graphics and diagrams, which can make complex ideas more accessible.

Frequently, I specialized in a particular category or type of client. For example, some create the graphics used in packaging for various types of retail products, while others may work on the visual design used on a book jacket. I also need to keep up to date with the latest software and computer technologies to remain competitive. Some individuals with a background in graphic design teach in design schools, colleges, and universities. For more information, see the profile on postsecondary teachers.