How to Become a Freelance Graphic Designer Without a Degree

While some designers pursue a college education to enter the creative industry, it is not necessary. Many organisations look at a designer's portfolio and experience rather than their educational background when hiring new employees.

So, you're interested in becoming a freelance graphic designer but don't have a degree? Don't worry. Many professional graphic designers started their careers without a degree. You can establish yourself as a successful freelance graphic designer with some hard work and patience.

This article will discuss the steps you need to take to become a successful freelance graphic designer. We'll also provide tips for marketing your services and building your portfolio.

Here are some tips to help you get started.

‍

1. Start by learning the basics of graphic design

You're artistically gifted and passionate about art and design. That's fantastic, but becoming a graphic designer entails more than that.

It will help if you're also well-versed in design fundamentals. Scale, color, perspective, and balance are all examples of art fundamentals.

You'll also need to know how to put together successful arrangements and how to use typography because the graphic design includes both text and images.

You can't build a solid foundation if you don't know the basics. Learning them will help you become a talented and well-rounded graphic designer.

These guidelines will teach you how to build visually appealing designs. Spend some time on the basics, and you'll be glad you did. It also doesn't need to be expensive. You can enroll in some free graphic design classes to get started.

‍

2. Experiment with different software and tools to find what works best for you

While a degree isn't necessary for employment, you must be familiar with the software.

As a result, becoming an Adobe expert is necessary. It would help if you had a basic understanding of Photoshop and Illustrator, at the very least. You'll need to be comfortable with them and know what you can do before using them.

The good news is that learning these applications does not have to be expensive. On platforms like Udemy, there are a variety of low-cost graphic design classes for each app. These classes are excellent for understanding the ins and outs of these applications and how to utilize them effectively.

However, YouTube has several free tutorials for practically any subject you can think of.

Experiment with different software programs until you find the one that you're most comfortable with. Once you find a program that works for you, stick with it and master it.

‍

3. Take on small projects to gain experience and build a portfolio

Experience is critical in the graphic design industry. Many employers will want to see your portfolio before offering you a job or project.

Start by taking on small projects for family and friends. Once you have some experience under your belt, look for paid opportunities.

There are many ways to find paid work as a freelance graphic designer. You can search job boards, work with a talent agent, or contact companies directly.

No matter how you find work, make sure that you're happy with the final product before adding it to your portfolio. You want your portfolio to showcase your best work and highlight your skills and abilities.

‍

4. Network with other designers and professionals in your field

In addition to building a portfolio, it's also important to network with other designers.

One way to do this is to join professional organisations. Membership in these organisations gives you access to job boards, networking events, and other resources to help you find work.

Another way to network is to attend industry conferences and trade shows. These events are excellent opportunities to meet potential clients and employers.

Online networking is also possible, especially since the pandemic. Some communities host regular activities and online summits, and other events.

Responding to queries and sharing your knowledge in a Facebook group could also work. People will remember you if you are helpful and have evident competence. They might even bring you their next project or hire you.

‍

5. Use social media to market your services and connect with potential clients

Nowadays, having an online presence is a must to find clients. Even if you have a website, people will not find it by accident. Instead, you should use social media to communicate with others.

You should have an online presence on social media sites like Facebook and Instagram. Pinterest, LinkedIn, and perhaps TikTok are more alternatives. Decide which ones will work best for you by conducting research.

You'll want to use a visual platform to show off your work as a designer. You may give people a taste of your work this way.

It's also a means to let people know who you are, what you do, and how you can help them.

Make sure that your profile is professional and up-to-date. Include a link to your portfolio, and make it easy for people to contact you.

‍

6. Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques in graphic design

Whether you have a formal design degree, maintaining up to date on industry trends and software processes is critical for anyone looking for a new job. Because technology is continually changing, the software can alter each more recent version every year. Taking software refresher classes or learning optimal graphic design methods will help you keep updated in the business and differentiate yourself from other applicants.

‍

7. Sign up as a Dzyn Space Freelancer

Showcase your skills and provide users with your innovative digital services. Make extra money by doing what you enjoy.

You can provide any creative digital service if Dzyn Space consumers request it. The following are some of the most often requested services:

-Social media graphic design

-Design of business cards

-Photography

Dzyn Space makes it simple for you to earn money and find work. Dzyn Space is one of the best online graphic design programs and it’s more than just a design tool. It enables freelancers to network with other creatives and to be discovered by potential employers.

How does it work? Simply sign up as a Dzyn Space Freelancer, fill out your profile, and list your services. You'll then be paired with users and begin earning.

‍

Conclusion

Becoming a freelance graphic designer without a degree can be a challenge, but it is not impossible. With the right tools and resources and hard work, and persistence, you can reach your goal of becoming a successful freelance graphic designer.

One of the best online graphic design programs Dzyn Space, provides freelancers like you with the opportunity to showcase your talent and skills to the world. You get to post your portfolio online for free without paying for website hosting or a domain name. Plus, you have the chance to be discovered by other professionals who may be interested in working with you.

And if that's not incentive enough, you also get to earn a commission each time someone uses your work on our platform.

Sign up today and start your journey to becoming a freelance graphic designer without a degree.

‍