Graphic Design theory

[werthers]

Hi everyone,

I'm currently working as the only DTP/Graphic designer in a company but was wanting to move on

The only problem is I never did graphic design at university (i did animation) I've been making it up as I go along, which is ok for this current job but I have never learnt any proper graphic design principles, I have the technical skills and the job experience but I don't have the theory to go with it.

So I was wondering what's the best way to learn graphic design theory? What good books are there out there? Should I go on a short course or is that a waste of time? Also I don't have to much money what with the crunch and everything.

Thanks in advance for any help

Tom

[werthers]

bump

[Totem-Media]

If you have the time and money to take a class, I think it's a good idea. The professor can give you hints, tips, and ideas not covered in books.

If books are the way to go, I picked up books on universal design principles, design layouts, color theory, graphics ideas (for inspiration only), and meanings of signs and symbols. They have been helpful. Also, hanging out here has helped me learn "insider secrets."

[lanternlad]

Your portfolio should speak for itself, regardless of where you went (or didn't) go to school. I've known designers who graduated from very good schools who couldn't design their way out of a wet paper bag. I know of others who make a comfortable living designing who never went to school. The long and short of design is: you can either do it, or you can't. If you can't, no school can teach you. Arts are funny that way. Technical skill can only get you so far. If you can't find anyone to hire you because you don't have a degree, freelance. Build up your portfolio. In the end, its your work that gets you paid.

[Tea]

I think there is a thread here with a sticky and graphic design books.

I have Design Basics by Jim Krause. Simple, straightforward and good basic info.

It's a small investment to get you talking the lingo. Most you already know, this will help define it.

[werthers]

Thanks for all the replies, i'll definitely take on board what you guys have said

[simplicity]

Design Basics by Krause is a good book to get started, you might also want to pick up some typography books. A good book to get you started with type is Thinking with Type by Ellen Lupton.