Graphic Design is not an easy field to get into. It requires years of training and practice and even then, if you don’t have the natural talent or creative flair, it can be trick to get off the starting line in terms of a career or successful projects.

That being said, there are a few tools which can make life easier when you delve into the world of graphic design. Don’t get me wrong, there are teaching which can help you insurmountably about colour matching, techniques etc, but these physical tools will really help you on your way to success.

Mac Desktop

This first one will divide many people in the design world, but I truly believe that Mac computers are the only way forward for people int he graphic design profession. Big, beautiful screens with high definition is the perfect platform for getting perfect designs and editing done to a high standard. They’re a little on the pricey side but so worth it for the ease of use and the end results. Some designers swear by Windows, but I find their operat6ing system clunky and not as streamlined. Not great for an industry that is based in sleekness and polished products.

Adobe Photoshop

The pinnacle fo graphic design software. Photoshop is essential for editing photos and creating images. You can work with images or vectors and nearly anything can be created with the tools provided. It takes some getting used to and I would always suggest formal training to learn the tips and tricks that will make this work. That being said, you can teach yourself (as I did!) and still get to know the software and how it works, this will just take a bit of extra time.

Shutterstock

Shutterstock provides royalty free images (for a price) which are great for editing and making your own for flyers, promotional materials and as backgrounds for websites etc. You can also find vectors on here that can be used, these are good for creating icons and small, cartoon-ey creations.

Hard Drive

ALWAYS BACK UP YOUR WORK. Computers fail. Sometimes work doesn’t get saved. Losing hours upon hours of work is devastating and can really put a halt on production. Don’t make the mistake of only having one copy of all your work. Hard Drives can cost as little as £20 but can save your entire portfolio.

Sketchbook

Sometimes, it’s easier to be creative when you put plain old pen to paper. This can allow for freehand that is sometimes just not possible online. Sketchbooks of varying sizes are perfect for sketching out vague ideas and brainstorming designs/patterns/layouts. Keep a small one in your bag or pocket at all times – inspiration can strike in the strangest of places!

Good Desk Chair

Graphic designers spent a painstakingly long time in front of their screen. Hunched over a keyboard and working on intricate details and designs. A good desk chair will help to reduce the damage this does to your back and can prevent any long-term injuries from bad posture or repetitive hand movements.