Why I Love Graphic Design

Graphic design is more than just a career for me—it’s a passion that fuels my creativity and brings me joy every single day. It’s a field where art meets purpose, where creativity solves problems, and where imagination transforms into something tangible and impactful. Here are some of the reasons why I love graphic design and why it holds such a special place in my heart.

One of the things I adore most about graphic design is its ability to tell a story without words. A single image, logo, or layout can evoke emotions, convey messages, and spark connections. It’s incredibly rewarding to create designs that resonate with people and communicate ideas that words alone cannot fully express.

I first was first introduced to graphic design through desktop publishing, as it is called. I worked on my junior high and high school year book staffs, making it to be Editor my senior year. Back then the technology is no where near what it is now, but I was able to learn the basics and fundamentals, that helped me understand the industry as it evolved.

Graphic design offers endless opportunities for creativity. From choosing color palettes to experimenting with typography and layouts, there are no boundaries to what you can create. Each project is a blank canvas waiting to be transformed into something beautiful and meaningful.

After I tried a stint as a reporter for the Daily Citizen, in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, I knew I as never going to get promoted to the copy desk. So I left the newspaper and went back to school to get my official certificate in Graphic Design. It was there than I learned more about photography, print production and pre-press document preparation.

At its core, graphic design is about problem-solving. Every project comes with a challenge to overcome. I had a lot of creative opportunities when I served as the Editor for LPA Today, the quarterly newsletter for the national advocacy organization, Little People of America. I find immense satisfaction in crafting solutions that not only look great but also serve a purpose. Designing LPA Today required balancing accessibility with aesthetics—ensuring that the content was both visually appealing and easy to read for its audience.

Graphic design is everywhere. It’s on the products we buy, the websites we visit, and the advertisements we see. Knowing that my work contributes to the visual world around us is incredibly motivating. Design has the power to influence decisions, inspire action, and even brighten someone’s day. Whether it’s a thoughtfully designed newspaper layout or a visually engaging newsletter spread, design has the ability to bring joy and make everyday moments a little more special.

This particularly comes into focus in public relations and marketing. When I freelanced I worked hard to make sure I could bring my clients vision to life, therefore helping their business or organization stand out from the pack.

Graphic design is a collaborative process. Whether I’m working with editors at the newspaper, collaborating with LPA members on newsletter content, or engaging with readers who appreciate the final product, there’s a deep sense of connection that comes from sharing ideas and bringing visions to life.

I cherish the relationships I’ve built through design, as well as the opportunity to help others achieve their goals through my creative skills. There’s nothing more fulfilling than seeing someone light up when they connect with a design I’ve created.

Lastly, the world of graphic design is always evolving. New tools, trends, and techniques are constantly emerging, which means there’s always something new to learn. I’ve grown so much as a designer by embracing this evolution, from experimenting with layouts in high school to mastering the design process for professional publications.

Graphic design isn’t just something I do; it’s who I am. It’s a blend of art and strategy, creativity and practicality, passion and purpose. Through design, I get to express myself, solve problems, and make a difference in the world around me. And that’s why I love it.

Jody Yarborough

Graphic designer, blogger, vlogger, disability advocate based in Silicon Valley.

https://www.jodyyarborough.com
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