How to Get Into Web Design

With the growing role that technology plays in our daily lives, the web design field is becoming more popular than ever. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment prospects of web developers are estimated to grow 8% from 2019 to 2029, which is more rapid than the average occupational growth.

In order to get into web design as a fun hobby or future job, this guide will briefly explain what skills and career options you have. This includes gaining knowledge of design theory, basic coding, and design programs. 

Explore the role of a web designer

Web designers combine creativity and practicality into one package. Their goal is to build websites and pages that appeal to both business owners and consumers and are both visually engaging and easy to navigate. 

Before getting into web design, it’s important to learn about some of the aspects it involves, such as:

• Understanding the basics of graphic design (using color, font, layout, and imagery to appeal to a target audience)
• Creating a positive user experience and user interface design
• Learning how to design a website that leads to greater clicks and conversions
• Knowing the aspects of digital marketing (SEO, social media marketingThe use of social media platforms to promote products or services, engage with audiences, and build ..., and copywriting) 
• Maintaining and troubleshooting of websites 

Understand basic web design theory 

As a web designer, knowledge of what makes good visuals is the foundation for website creation. Some key web design features include easy-to-read fonts, prominent brandingThe process of creating a unique name, design, and image for a product or service in the consumer's ..., proper placement of contact details, and more. Learning how to adjust color schemes to create visual depth and clarity takes time. 

Along with staying true to brand identityThe visible elements of a brand, such as color, design, and logo, that identify and distinguish the ..., web design theory involves balancing key elements like products and descriptions without compromising the quality of other shapes, patterns, and borders. 

Learn how to use standard design programs

Just like any other job, web designers need to learn the right tools for their trade. Building a website can be done on a web browser, but industry-standard applications like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator are also crucial to your role. When it comes to designing logos, images, mockups, and editing photos, these are commonly used by most agencies. 

Study the basics of HTML and CSS 

Although you may not need an extremely detailed knowledge of code, knowing the basics of HTML and CSS can go a long way towards helping you create a basic website. These languages are the building blocks of every website and help determine what users see.

HTML is linked to things like headings, bullet points, and hyperlinks, while CSS controls things like fonts, colors, images, and layouts you can manipulate to get the look you’re after. 

Once you’ve learned the basics, it’s time to showcase your skills on a virtual platform. Create a portfolio section on your website to highlight your work from clients, including any volunteer work or mockups you have made. 

Whether you plan on making it on your own as a freelance web designer or searching for a large agency to work with, the field of web design is in constant flux so there’s always something new to learn in terms of design and user experience.  

If you need some help designing and developing your own website, reach out to us at Bliss Drive today!