A graphic designer impacts more of your daily life than you probably realize. Every time you read a magazine, use the internet, or even shop at the grocery store, you encounter their work. Designers are responsible for organizing various kinds of material into a package that is both eye-catching and informative.

A graphic designer may work in a variety of fields, including print design (such as magazines or newspapers), website design, advertising, product development, logo design -- even sign-making. Computer programs such as Adobe Photoshop or Quark XPress are often used to facilitate the process.

There are two basic kinds of designers -- "in-house" or freelance. An "in-house" graphic designer is an artist that works for a specific company and is paid by that company for their work. A freelance graphic designer works on a job-by-job basis, and is responsible for seeking out his or her own clients and negotiating a contract for payment. Approximately one-third of all professional designers fall into the second category.

Graphic design is a very competitive field, and many people who pursue work in this field go to college in order to learn the basics of the job and build a portfolio. However, several years of experience working in the field is an acceptable alternative to a degree. An impressive portfolio, consisting of work created either in classes or for clients, is crucial to the success of a graphic designer. Samples of work show prospective employers that a graphic designer is creative, competent, and able to meet the needs of the client and communicate to different groups of consumers. Another important skill is the ability to meet deadlines.

While many fine artists use graphic design as a way to pay the bills, it differs greatly from the realm of fine arts due mostly to the commercial aspect of the field and the frequent need to change the work at the request of the client. However, many fine artists have contributed to the evolution of this field, including Andy Warhol, Piet Mondrian, and the Russian Constructivist artists of the 1920's.