How to Become a Layout Artist
Performing freelance copy work or working an internship while you’re a student is a great way to get a head start on your career as a layout artist. Working an internship or a series of freelance jobs will give you the experience you will need to become a layout artist, and will help you make valuable contacts.
Performing a traditional job search may work for you, as job postings for layout artists can commonly be found on internet job boards, employer websites, trade magazines and in newspapers. You may also consider meeting with a recruiting agency, as they may be able to help place you with an organization.
If a traditional job search isn’t yielding any results, try applying for an entry level job with an organization that utilizes layout artists. Layout artists are mainly employed by publishing companies, newspapers, advertising agencies, public relations firms and manufacturing companies.
If you choose to be a freelance layout artist, you will need to have a solid marketing plan and portfolio in order to attract clients. A good start is to develop a website that gives potential clients a multi-tiered example of your best work.
Layout Artist Job Description
A layout artist is responsible for collecting and assembling type styles and images including photographs, illustrations and drawings in order to create a visual design on paper on using a computer aided design program.
Layout artists are often specialized graphic designers who deliver ideas and information through visual communication. Many layout artists work for advertising or publishing companies or design studios, while others work as freelancers.
Typical Job Duties
• Meet with clients or managers to discuss creative vision and requirements of the project
• Determine colour and size of the layout as well as the illustrations to be included
• Work with computer aided design software and page layout software such as InDesign, PageMaker and Quark
• May prepare final design for the printer or for the web
• May be required to develop the design, or to simply produce the graphic designer’s concept
• Seek final approval of design
