For me design is like choosing what I’m going to wear for the day-only much more complicated and not really the same at all. –Robynne Raye
Previously I talked about how designers need to be careful to not get too focused on one stereotype and as a result get stuck in a style rut. I thought it would be good to identify what some of these stereotypes are surrounding graphic design and jobs related to it. It is good to know what people think about designers. It is also important to know these stereotypes and identify when you are in a rut. Here are some of these stereotypes surround Graphic Designer and how your can get your self out of a design rut.
Graphic Designers are trendy, hipsters.
Designers come in all shapes and sizes and styles. Often though some Designers do lean towards a trendy look not all Designers are like that. Be careful not to limit yourself to one style remain open to other styles in order to find inspiration from everywhere.
Graphic Designers always have a cup of coffee in their hand.
Graphic Designers and many people in the professional world love their coffee. Having a Starbucks in your hand does not make you a Designer or define you. Try changing things up and finding inspiration elsewhere. Instead of Starbucks go to the café you always pass but never stop at. Change up your routine and get inspired.
Graphic Designers love their Apple products especially their Macs.
There has always been a battle of the Mac vs. PC either is better or worst. Every person has their own personally preference. Though many Designers do favour Apple products this does not make them better. There are Designers who use Macs and there are designer who use PCs. If you find yourself l
eaning towards an Apple product the next time
Graphic Designers love to wear black.
Some do say black is an artist’s colour but not all Designers dress in all black. A lot of Designers like to add colour to their wardrobe and be creative with what they wear. If you find yourself gravitating towards black find something with a little colour to change things up. Changing up your wardrobe can inspire you in your designs.
Graphic Designers can finish a huge project in an hour.
If this were true then Designers would be super heroes. The creative process does take time, you have to meet with the client, make tweaks and overtime it becomes a finished piece. A good Designer doesn’t just throw their work together at the last minute, they are strategically designed. Sometimes Designers do leave projects to the last minute giving themselves only an hour to finish it. If you find yourself doing that plan out a timeline to help give you the time you need to complete the project.
Graphic Designers are always stressed out and tired.
A design career is full of deadlines, dealing with clients and long hours to get the job done. At times Designers are stressed but this comes with any profession. Everyone finds points where they are tired, worn out and stressed. If you find this happening to you on a regular bases try to do one thing a day that makes you happy.
Graphic Designers have an easy job.
Many people think Graphic Design is an easy job where you get paid to be creative and make stuff look good. Graphic Designers do get to be creative and make stuff look good but it takes a lot of work. Everything in a design has a reason for being there. This takes work and time. If you can’t identify why you are designing things the way you are look at it and think about what lead you to make those choices.
There are many stereotypes surrounding people. Everyone has a mold that they fit into. It is important as Designers that we don’t let stereotypes define us and confine us. Break free of the mold and be inspired today.
Illuminating By Design 