How Do I Become a Broadcast Designer?

Broadcast designers are part of a team of professionals that produce television, motion picture, and print graphics. A college degree in fine arts is typically required for employment in this highly competitive profession. You will also need to participate in an internship before you become a broadcast designer. A portfolio of your previous work and membership in a professional organization can also improve your employment prospects. After you become a broadcast designer, employment can usually be found with a number of television, print, and motion picture production companies.

There are several different educational paths that can be taken to become a broadcast designer. While many employers prefer you to have a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, some may accept an associate’s degree in graphic design. A college degree in computer animation or digital media may also be suitable to begin this career. Your formal education should include instruction in drawing, painting, and photography, as well as animation and multimedia. Additional classes in storyboard development, color theory, and motion graphics will help to prepare you for this profession.

If possible, participate in some type of college internship before you become a broadcast designer. This on-the-job training program will allow you to gain valuable work experience before graduating from college. College internships typically consist of one or two years of part-time, entry-level work in a studio environment. Many employers prefer candidates who have some type of practical work experience in this field in addition to a college degree. An internship is also a good way to begin building a professional portfolio of your artistic creativity and talent.

You must stand out from the crowd to find employment in this highly competitive profession. A professional portfolio of your previous work is required by most employers to determine your overall skills and artistic creativity. It might be a good idea to market your services as a freelance graphic artist to help increase the size and quality of your portfolio. Membership in a professional organization, such as the American Institute of Graphic Arts or PromaxBDA, may also give you a hiring advantage. These organizations provide members with online portfolio presentations, job boards, and educational scholarships, as well as discussion forums and mentoring opportunities.

After you become a broadcast designer, employment can be found in several different industries, including television, print, and motion picture production. You will typically work with a team of other professionals, including artistic directors and technicians, writers, and producers. This team is responsible for conveying messages to an audience in the most cost-effective and innovative way possible. Your team will also be responsible for producing a finished product within strict time and budget constraints.