Although graphic design has evolved throughout recent years, many still believe common myths about this ever-changing art form. Graphic design is more than just creating logos or print materials, it now spans digital and even virtual reality creations. Here are a few common misconceptions about design and clarification of the common myths. 

1: Graphic design has to be trendy.

Keeping up with the latest trends is an important part of successful branding for a business, but these trends do not define professional graphic design. Trends may inspire you or push you to use new methods and develop new skills, but they shouldn’t be the main focus of your design. Designs that incorporate trends can look outdated a few months down the road, and therefore will not have a powerful impact on your audience in the long run.

2: You need fancy tools for graphic design.

Most professional graphic designers use design software like the Adobe Suite or a tablet with a stylus for freehand design elements. These resources give the designer more freedom with their designs, but the technology can be expensive and take some time to master. If you’re looking to create graphics, many free tools are on the market, including Canva, that make graphic design easier for the average person. Either way, using a form of graphic design software can help give your brand an elevated and professional look. 

3: Graphic design is about making things pretty.

Even though aesthetics are part of the graphic design process, that’s not something you would specifically ask a graphic designer to do. Graphic design is the art of creating visual content to communicate a message or tell a story for your brand. To do that successfully, the graphic designer has to think about what will shock the viewer, prompt thought, or even make the audience angry depending on the purpose of the design.

4: You have to be born creative to be a graphic designer.

There’s no doubt that some graphic designers are just born with artistic and creative skills, but that doesn’t mean you can’t learn the art of graphic design. Anyone is capable of making effective designs or building a career in graphic design with the appropriate schooling, training, and consistency. 

5: Graphic design is about creating 100% original designs every time.

Originality is important because it sets you apart from other brands or competitors. However, this does not mean that you have to create 100% original designs from scratch every time you make some form of visual material. Many graphic designers set up templates for when they create a similar asset on an ongoing basis. This template ensures that the graphics will have consistency across all brand collateral.

Did you have graphic design myths to share? Let us know in the comments!