Just about everyone is familiar with Apple’s iPhone ads, but have you ever noticed the fact that on every product photo it’s always 9:41?
We’ll get into the interesting story behind this unique branding move—plus—we’ll dive into how your smartphone—yes that thing that’s suppose to make your life easier and more productive—may actually be hindering your productivity.
Also, I’ll cover a listener-submitted question about how to begin the process of learning Graphic Design. We’ll provide resources for learning design and web development whether you’re wanting to become a pro or just learn some of the basics.
Here’s our listener question:
Hello!
I have been preparing to start off on a side career in graphic design (emphasis on book covers, logo design, and hopes to start learning web design with WordPress) for the last year. I have some fine arts training and some graphic design training from college although I dropped out in my junior year.
I have been inspired by others who have gone the “self taught route” and that is why I have been reading books, web pages, tutorials to start on the side of my full time job, with the hopes of being able to go full freelance in the future. It seems silly to me to get a BA in Graphic Design when I can save the money and learn on my own.
My issue now is that I have seen reports that show positions such as U/I, U/X designer, email marketer designer, etc. acquired with degrees show salaries at least of $70,000.
My question is, would it be better to commit to going back to school for BA degree programs in these specific fields that seem to pay well (with all the costs and 2-4 year time commitment of a college degree) or are these skills one could learn on their own?
Maybe it depends on if a person is wanting to work for a company and then go freelance, or if someone wants to just go freelance?
Sorry for the wall of text. I hope my question makes sense and has merit in being asked. Great podcast and resources! Thank you for all you do!
-Gabriel
The topics we’ll cover in this episode:
- Deciding between college and a self-learning solution
- The difference between learning design and learning to become a designer
- Start with the principles—The Non-Designer’s Design Book
- Treehouse
- Stay up-to-date with design trends and best practices (Episode 10)
- Recommended Reading over at A Book Apart
- Stay informed with Smashing Magazine and CSS Tricks (Episode 13)
Recommended Reading
