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Many people think being a graphic designer is an easy job, but this is not always the case. Graphic designers will need to be at a desk all day long in front of a computer screen. This is not a job for everyone or those that get a little stir crazy being in one spot all day. You may find yourself wondering do they need to sot all day long.
Some graphic designers do sit at their desks in front of a computer all day, however, graphic design can be done anywhere with a computer, so in most cases you can work remote.
While you will need to be glued to your computer or other devices you will not need to sit at a desk all day long. There are many options on how you can work as a graphic designer. In this article, you will find out what a graphic designer will do in a day and ways to stay comfortable while working.
What Type of Desk Set Up Should a Graphic Designer Have?
Graphic designers can use any type of desk they feel comfortable working at, but many prefer a stand-up desk. Choosing a desk is all about your preferences. Some people are not able to stand for long periods, so a multifunctional desk is ideal. There are many creative options to use as a desk. Some ideas for desk setup are:
- Stand up desk
- Traditional desk
- A desk that mounts your monitors allowing them to move closer to you
- Ergonomic desk
- Desk with plenty of shelving for storage
- Wide desk for holding multiple monitors
Some graphic designers will only be able to use what their office supplies but for those that work at home the options are endless when it comes to your desk. Many graphic designers even choose to work out of the home and office. A coffee shop and park can change up your environment helping you to become more productive. Keep in mind that you can do most of your graphic design projects anywhere you can bring your computer.
How Many Hours a Day Do Graphic Designers Work
Graphic designers’ hours will vary depending on where you work. Larger companies may have graphic designers work well over forty hours for them while freelance graphic designers can choose their hours. Hours can vary from a few a day to ten hours days the larger the company the more clients it may have.
Another thing to take into account is your company’s turnaround time may need to be faster to keep up with clients. If this is the case then you may need to work longer hours to keep up with the company’s needs.
If you work as a freelance graphic designer, you will be able to pick and choose what client you would like to work with. It may be more difficult to get a list of clients in the beginning but after a while, you will have your pick of clients. You can take on jobs to work around your life, not the other way around.
How to Stay Active as a Graphic Designer
If you are worried about sitting all day there are options to stay active while working. You can choose a stand-up desk to go back and forth between sitting and standing. If you would rather work a little harder some days you can:
- Bounce/sit on a workout ball to ease your lower back muscles and strengthen your core
- Take a break and take a quick walk
- Take time each day to focus on your mental health, it is often too easy to get so caught up in work that you forget to eat and drink.
- Use a portable treadmill to walk while working
A simple ten-minute workout can do wonders for your body when you have a job that requires you to sit for extended periods.
How Much Does a Graphic Designer Make?
Graphic designers can make anywhere from $25,000 up to $70,000. It is important to know that every job is not created equally some may pay much lower for simple work while elaborate work will have higher pay. Depending on the company you work for you may get paid by the hour or by the intensity of the job.
As a freelancer, you will be able to set your rates however this doesn’t mean that people will be willing to pay those rates. You may want to do a few free or reduced designs to build up your portfolio to eventually get higher-paying jobs.
Graphic Designers Stand at Desk While Working
While you may need to stare at a screen to do your job you will not need to sit at a desk all day as a graphic designer. You can use a standing desk, walk on a portable treadmill, or take your computer on the go. The best thing about being a graphic designer is anywhere you can take your device you can work.
