How To Become A Graphic Designer In India: A Comprehensive Guide

Graphic design is a creative and rewarding career option for anyone who has a passion for visual communication. Graphic designers use color, illustrations, fonts, and layout to create logos, websites, posters, flyers, magazines, and more. They work in various industries and sectors, such as advertising, publishing, education, entertainment, and e-commerce.

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If you are interested in becoming a graphic designer in India, you might be wondering what steps you need to take to pursue this profession. In this article, we will guide you through the process of becoming a graphic designer in India, from the education and skills required to the salary and trends in the field.

Types of Graphic Designers

Graphic design is a broad field that encompasses many different types of design. Some of the common types of graphic designers are:

Art directors: They are responsible for overseeing the overall visual style and direction of a project or a campaign. They work with other designers, photographers, illustrators, and writers to create a cohesive and consistent look and feel for a brand or a product.
Web designers: They are responsible for designing and developing websites and web applications. They work with HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and other web technologies to create user-friendly and responsive interfaces that work across different devices and browsers.
Industrial designers: They are responsible for designing and developing physical products, such as furniture, appliances, toys, and packaging. They work with materials, shapes, colors, textures, and ergonomics to create functional and aesthetic solutions that meet the needs and preferences of the users.
Product designers: They are responsible for designing and developing digital products, such as apps, games, software, and platforms. They work with user research, wireframes, prototypes, and testing to create user-centric and engaging experiences that solve problems and achieve goals.
Graphic designers: They are responsible for creating visual content for various media, such as print, digital, social media, and video. They work with typography, layout, color theory, imagery, and graphics to convey messages and emotions effectively.

These are just some examples of the types of graphic designers that exist. Depending on your interests and skills, you can choose to specialize in one or more of these areas or explore other niches within graphic design.

Steps to Become a Graphic Designer

To become a graphic designer in India, you need to follow these steps:

1. Complete higher secondary education in any stream

The first step to becoming a graphic designer is to complete your higher secondary education (10+2) in any stream from a recognized board or institution. You can choose any subjects that interest you or that are related to graphic design, such as art, computer science, or mathematics.

2. Pursue formal education in graphic design from a recognized institution

The next step is to pursue formal education in graphic design from a recognized institution. There are various courses available in graphic design at different levels, such as certificate, diploma, undergraduate (B.Des), postgraduate (M.Des), or doctoral (Ph.D.). You can choose the course that suits your goals and budget.

Some of the eligibility criteria for admission to these courses are:

For certificate or diploma courses: You need to have completed your higher secondary education (10+2) in any stream with a minimum percentage of marks (usually 50% or above) from a recognized board or institution.
For undergraduate courses: You need to have completed your higher secondary education (10+2) in any stream with a minimum percentage of marks (usually 50% or above) from a recognized board or institution. You also need to qualify an entrance exam conducted by the institution or a national level exam such as UCEED (Undergraduate Common Entrance Examination for Design).
For postgraduate courses: You need to have completed your undergraduate degree (B.Des) in graphic design or a related field with a minimum percentage of marks (usually 55% or above) from a recognized institution. You also need to qualify an entrance exam conducted by the institution or a national level exam such as CEED (Common Entrance Examination for Design).
For doctoral courses: You need to have completed your postgraduate degree (M.Des) in graphic design or a related field with a minimum percentage of marks (usually 60% or above) from a recognized institution. You also need to qualify an entrance exam conducted by the institution or a national level exam such as GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering).

Some of the admission processes for these courses are:

For certificate or diploma courses: You need to apply online or offline to the institution of your choice with the required documents and fees. You may also need to appear for a personal interview or a portfolio review.
For undergraduate courses: You need to apply online or offline to the institution of your choice with the required documents and fees. You also need to appear for an entrance exam conducted by the institution or a national level exam such as UCEED. Based on your performance in the exam, you will be shortlisted for a personal interview or a portfolio review.
For postgraduate courses: You need to apply online or offline to the institution of your choice with the required documents and fees. You also need to appear for an entrance exam conducted by the institution or a national level exam such as CEED. Based on your performance in the exam, you will be shortlisted for a personal interview or a portfolio review.
For doctoral courses: You need to apply online or offline to the institution of your choice with the required documents and fees. You also need to appear for an entrance exam conducted by the institution or a national level exam such as GATE. Based on your performance in the exam, you will be shortlisted for a personal interview or a portfolio review.

Some of the duration and fees of these courses are:

For certificate or diploma courses: The duration of these courses can range from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the institution and the course. The fees of these courses can range from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 2,00,000, depending on the institution and the course.
For undergraduate courses: The duration of these courses is usually 4 years, divided into 8 semesters. The fees of these courses can range from Rs. 2,00,000 to Rs. 10,00,000, depending on the institution and the course.
For postgraduate courses: The duration of these courses is usually 2 years, divided into 4 semesters. The fees of these courses can range from Rs. 1,00,000 to Rs. 5,00,000, depending on the institution and the course.
For doctoral courses: The duration of these courses can vary from 3 to 5 years, depending on the institution and the course. The fees of these courses can range from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 3,00,000, depending on the institution and the course.

Some of the top graphic design colleges in India and their rankings are:

National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad
Industrial Design Centre (IDC), IIT Bombay
Department of Design (DoD), IIT Guwahati
Srishti Institute of Art, Design and Technology (Srishti), Bengaluru
Pearl Academy (PA), Delhi

3. Build a portfolio of graphic design work

The next step is to build a portfolio of graphic design work that showcases your skills and creativity. A portfolio is a collection of your best work that demonstrates your style, abilities, and achievements as a graphic designer. A portfolio can include projects that you have done as part of your course work, internships, freelance work, or personal work.

A portfolio is essential for applying for jobs or freelancing opportunities in graphic design. It helps you stand out from other candidates and impress potential employers or clients. A portfolio also helps you improve your skills and learn from your mistakes.

To build a portfolio, you need to follow these tips:

Choose quality over quantity: Select only your best work that represents your strengths and interests as a graphic designer. Avoid including work that is outdated, irrelevant, or poorly executed.
Organize your work: Arrange your work in a logical and coherent order that tells a story about your skills and experience. You can categorize your work by type (such as logo design, web design, etc.), by industry (such as education, entertainment, etc.), or by client (such as ABC company, XYZ organization, etc.).
Showcase your process: Include sketches, wireframes, mockups, and feedback that show how you developed your work from concept to completion. This will help you demonstrate your problem-solving skills and creative thinking.
Provide context and details: Include brief descriptions and captions that explain the purpose, objectives, challenges, and outcomes of each project. Also mention the tools and software that you used to create your work.
Update your portfolio regularly: Keep your portfolio fresh and current by adding new work that reflects your latest skills and achievements. Remove any work that is no longer relevant or representative of your style.

You can create your portfolio online or offline, depending on your preference and convenience. Online portfolios are more accessible and convenient for potential employers or clients who can view them anytime and anywhere. Offline portfolios are more tangible and personal for face-to-face interactions with potential employers or clients who can appreciate the physical quality and details of your work.

Some of the online platforms that you can use to create your portfolio are:

Behance: A popular and free platform for showcasing and discovering creative work. You can upload your work, get feedback, and follow other designers.
Dribbble: A leading and invite-only platform for sharing and exploring design work. You can upload your work, get likes, comments, and views, and join communities.
Wix: A user-friendly and customizable platform for creating and hosting your own website. You can choose from hundreds of templates, add your own content, and use various features and tools.
Squarespace: A professional and elegant platform for creating and hosting your own website. You can choose from a range of templates, add your own content, and use various features and tools.
WordPress: A versatile and powerful platform for creating and hosting your own website or blog. You can choose from thousands of themes, plugins, and widgets, and customize your site to your liking.

Some of the offline formats that you can use to create your portfolio are:

PDF: A simple and universal format that can be easily viewed, printed, or emailed. You can create a PDF portfolio using software such as Adobe Acrobat or InDesign.
Book: A traditional and tactile format that can be printed or bound. You can create a book portfolio using software such as Adobe InDesign or Blurb.
Folder: A flexible and portable format that can be easily updated or changed. You can create a folder portfolio using materials such as paper, cardstock, or plastic sleeves.

4. Apply for jobs or freelancing opportunities in graphic design

The final step is to apply for jobs or freelancing opportunities in graphic design that match your skills, interests, and goals. There are various ways to find graphic design jobs or projects, such as:

Online job portals: You can use online job portals such as Naukri, Indeed, Monster, or LinkedIn to search for graphic design jobs in India or abroad. You can filter your search by location, industry, experience level, salary range, etc. You can also upload your resume and portfolio on these portals and get notified of relevant opportunities.
Online freelance platforms: You can use online freelance platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer, or 99designs to find graphic design projects from clients around the world. You can create your profile and portfolio on these platforms and bid on projects that suit your skills, rates, and availability.
Networking: You can use networking to find graphic design jobs or projects through your contacts, such as friends, family, classmates, teachers, colleagues, or clients. You can also attend events, workshops, seminars, or conferences related to graphic design and meet new people who might offer you opportunities or referrals.
Social media: You can use social media to find graphic design jobs or projects by following or interacting with graphic design pages, groups, communities, influencers, or hashtags. You can also showcase your work on social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or YouTube and attract potential employers or clients.

When applying for graphic design jobs or projects, you need to follow these tips:

Research the employer or client: Before applying for a graphic design job or project, you need to research the employer or client and understand their background, vision, values, needs, and expectations. This will help you tailor your application and portfolio to their specific requirements and preferences.
Write a cover letter: A cover letter is a brief and professional introduction of yourself and your graphic design skills. It should highlight your relevant experience, achievements, and motivation for applying for the job or project. It should also showcase your personality and enthusiasm for graphic design.
Prepare your resume: A resume is a concise and structured summary of your education, skills, work history, and achievements as a graphic designer. It should highlight your most relevant and impressive information that matches the job or project description. It should also be easy to read and formatted properly.
Send your portfolio: A portfolio is a crucial part of your application as a graphic designer. It should showcase your best work that demonstrates your skills and creativity as a graphic designer. It should also be relevant and customized to the job or project that you are applying for.
Follow up: After applying for a graphic design job or project, you should follow up with the employer or client to show your interest and professionalism. You can send a thank-you email or message expressing your gratitude for the opportunity and reiterating your suitability for the role. You can also ask for feedback or updates on the status of your application.

Graphic Design Tools

Graphic design tools are essential for creating visual content as a graphic designer. Graphic design tools are software or applications that help you design, edit, manipulate, and enhance images, graphics, typography, layouts, and other visual elements.

There are various graphic design tools available in the market, each with its own features, functions, and advantages. Some of the essential graphic design tools that every graphic designer should know are:

Photoshop: Photoshop is one of the most popular and powerful graphic design tools that allows you to create, edit, and manipulate images and graphics. You can use Photoshop to crop, resize, rotate, adjust colors, apply filters, effects, layers, masks, and more. You can also use Photoshop to create logos, icons, illustrations, posters, flyers, banners, etc.
Illustrator: Illustrator is another popular and powerful graphic design tool that allows you to create vector graphics. Vector graphics are images that are made of mathematical shapes and curves that can be scaled without losing quality or resolution. You can use Illustrator to create logos, icons, illustrations, charts, diagrams, infographics, etc.
InDesign: InDesign is a professional and versatile graphic design tool that allows you to create layouts for print and digital media. You can use InDesign to create magazines, books, brochures, newsletters, catalogs, flyers, etc. You can also use InDesign to format text, images, graphics, and other elements in a professional and consistent manner.
SketchUp: SketchUp is a simple and intuitive graphic design tool that allows you to create 3D models and designs. You can use SketchUp to create buildings, landscapes, furniture, products, and more. You can also use SketchUp to add textures, colors, lighting, shadows, and animations to your 3D models and designs.
Blender: Blender is a free and open-source graphic design tool that allows you to create 3D models, animations, games, and visual effects. You can use Blender to create characters, environments, objects, and more. You can also use Blender to sculpt, rig, animate, render, and edit your 3D models and animations.
Procreate: Procreate is a popular and powerful graphic design tool that allows you to create digital paintings and drawings on your iPad. You can use Procreate to create sketches, illustrations, comics, concept art, and more. You can also use Procreate to choose from hundreds of brushes, colors, layers, masks, and effects to create stunning artworks.
ProofHub: ProofHub is a collaborative and productive graphic design tool that allows you to manage your graphic design projects and teams. You can use ProofHub to create tasks, assign roles, set deadlines, track progress, share files, communicate feedback, and more. You can also use ProofHub to integrate with other tools such as Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, etc.

These are just some examples of the graphic design tools that you can use to create visual content as a graphic designer. Depending on your needs and preferences, you can choose to use one or more of these tools or explore other tools that are available in the market.

Graphic Design Skills

Graphic design skills are the abilities and knowledge that you need to have as a graphic designer. Graphic design skills are a combination of technical skills and soft skills that help you create effective and appealing visual content.

Some of the graphic design skills that you need to have as a graphic designer are:

Creativity and innovation: Creativity and innovation are the skills that allow you to come up with original and unique ideas for your graphic design projects. You need to have creativity and innovation to express your vision and style as a graphic designer. You also need to have creativity and innovation to solve problems and overcome challenges in your graphic design projects.
Visual communication and aesthetics: Visual communication and aesthetics are the skills that allow you to communicate messages and emotions through visual elements such as images, graphics, typography, layout, and color. You need to have visual communication and aesthetics to create visual content that is clear, attractive, and engaging for your target audience. You also need to have visual communication and aesthetics to follow the principles and guidelines of graphic design, such as contrast, alignment, balance, hierarchy, etc.
Typography and layout: Typography and layout are the skills that allow you to choose and arrange fonts and text in your graphic design projects. You need to have typography and layout to create visual content that is readable, legible, and appealing. You also need to have typography and layout to understand and apply the concepts and rules of typography, such as font types, sizes, styles, weights, kerning, leading, etc.
Color theory and harmony: Color theory and harmony are the skills that allow you to choose and combine colors in your graphic design projects. You need to have color theory and harmony to create visual content that is expressive, harmonious, and impactful. You also need to have color theory and harmony to understand and apply the concepts and rules of color, such as hue, saturation, value, temperature, complementary, analogous, triadic, etc.
User interface and user experience design: User interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design are the skills that allow you to design and develop interfaces and experiences for digital products, such as websites, apps, games, software, etc. You need to have UI and UX design to create visual content that is user-friendly, intuitive, interactive, and enjoyable. You also need to have UI and UX design to understand and apply the concepts and methods of UI and UX design, such as user research, wireframes, prototypes, testing, feedback, etc.
Problem-solving and critical thinking: Problem-solving and critical thinking are the skills that allow you to analyze and solve problems in your graphic design projects. You need to have problem-solving and critical thinking to create visual content that meets the needs and expectations of your clients or users. You also need to have problem-solving and critical thinking to identify and overcome the challenges and limitations in your graphic design projects.
Collaboration and communication: Collaboration and communication are the skills that allow you to work effectively with others in your graphic design projects. You need to have collaboration and communication to create visual content that is consistent and coherent with the vision and goals of your team or organization. You also need to have collaboration and communication to communicate effectively with your clients, users, colleagues, managers, or stakeholders in your graphic design projects.

These are just some examples of the graphic design skills that you need to have as a graphic designer. Depending on your type and level of graphic design, you may need to have other skills as well. You can also learn and improve your graphic design skills by taking courses, reading books, watching videos, practicing projects, or seeking feedback.

Graphic Design Salary

Graphic design salary is the amount of money that you earn as a graphic designer. Graphic design salary can vary depending on various factors, such as education, experience, location, industry, type of employer, etc.

According to PayScale, the average graphic designer salary in India is Rs. 3,05,535 per year as of April 2023. However, this is just an estimate and the actual graphic design salary can be higher or lower depending on the factors mentioned above.

Some of the factors that influence the graphic design salary are:

Education: Education is the factor that determines your qualification and knowledge as a graphic designer. Generally, the higher your education level, the higher your graphic design salary. For example, a graphic designer with a postgraduate degree (M.Des) can earn more than a graphic designer with an undergraduate degree (B.Des).
Experience: Experience is the factor that determines your skills and expertise as a graphic designer. Generally, the more experience you have, the more graphic design salary you can earn. For example, a graphic designer with 5 years of experience can earn more than a graphic designer with 1 year of experience.
Location: Location is the factor that determines the cost of living and the demand and supply of graphic designers in a particular area. Generally, the more developed and urbanized the location, the higher the graphic design salary. For example, a graphic designer in Mumbai can earn more than a graphic designer in Patna.
Industry: Industry is the factor that determines the type and scope of graphic design work in a particular sector. Generally, the more profitable and competitive the industry, the higher the graphic design salary. For example, a graphic designer in advertising can earn more than a graphic designer in education.
Type of employer: Type of employer is the factor that determines the size and reputation of the organization or company that hires you as a graphic designer. Generally, the larger and more established the employer, the higher the graphic design salary. For example, a graphic designer in Google can earn more than a graphic designer in a startup.

Some of the graphic design salary ranges for different types of graphic designers in India are:

Art director: Rs. 4,00,000 to Rs. 20,00,000 per year
Web designer: Rs. 2,00,000 to Rs. 10,00,000 per year
Industrial designer: Rs. 3,00,000 to Rs. 15,00,000 per year
Product designer: Rs. 4,00,000 to Rs. 18,00,000 per year
Graphic designer: Rs. 2,00,000 to Rs. 8,00,000 per year

These are just some estimates and the actual graphic design salary can be higher or lower depending on the factors mentioned above.

Graphic Design Trends

Graphic design trends are the current and emerging styles and techniques that are shaping the graphic design industry and influencing the work of graphic designers. Graphic design trends are constantly changing and evolving with the times and the tastes of the audience.

Some of the current and emerging graphic design trends that are popular and relevant in India are:

Minimalism and simplicity: Minimalism and simplicity are the trends that focus on using less elements and more space to create clean and elegant designs. Minimalism and simplicity help to create designs that are easy to understand and appreciate. Minimalism and simplicity can be seen in logos, websites, posters, flyers, etc.
Retro and vintage styles: Retro and vintage styles are the trends that use old-fashioned or nostalgic elements to create designs that evoke a sense of nostalgia and charm. Retro and vintage styles help to create designs that are unique and memorable. Retro and vintage styles can be seen in logos, illustrations, typography, packaging, etc.
Geometric shapes and patterns: Geometric shapes and patterns are the trends that use simple or complex shapes and patterns to create designs that are dynamic and eye-catching. Geometric shapes and patterns help to create designs that are modern and stylish. Geometric shapes and patterns can be seen in logos, icons, illustrations, infographics, etc.
Gradients and duotones: Gradients and duotones are the trends that use smooth or sharp transitions of colors to create designs that are colorful and vibrant. Gradients and duotones help to create designs that are expressive and impactful. Gradients and duotones can be seen in logos, backgrounds, images, typography, etc.
3D and animation: 3D and animation are the trends that use three-dimensional and motion elements to create designs that are realistic and immersive. 3D and animation help to create designs that are interactive and engaging. 3D and animation can be seen in websites, apps, games, videos, etc.
Social media and memes: Social media and memes are the trends that use humor, irony, or satire to create designs that are viral and relatable. Social media and memes help to create designs that are fun and entertaining. Social media and memes can be seen in posts, stories, stickers, gifs, etc.

These are just some examples of the graphic design trends that are popular and relevant in India. Depending on your type and level of graphic design, you may need to follow or create other trends as well. You can also learn and explore new graphic design trends by following blogs, magazines, podcasts, or influencers related to graphic design.

Last Words!

In this article, we have discussed how to become a graphic designer in India. We have covered the types of graphic designers, the steps to become a graphic designer, the graphic design courses, the graphic design tools, the graphic design skills, the graphic design salary, and the graphic design trends in India.

We hope this article has helped you understand the process and requirements of becoming a graphic designer in India. If you are interested in pursuing this career option, we encourage you to follow your passion for graphic design and explore your creativity.