Professional Graphic Designers: Using Pre-Made Illustrations or Creating Art from Scratch

When it comes to professional graphic design, there is a common misconception that designers always start from scratch. However, the reality is more nuanced. Professional graphic designers often use pre-made graphics and illustrations to enhance their projects while maintaining a balance in the overall cost and design quality. This article explores when and why these designers use pre-made illustrations and vector designs, and how they differ from creating art from scratch.

The Value of Pre-Made Designs in Graphic Design

Using pre-made vector designs is a prevalent practice in the graphics industry. These designs offer designers a way to add value to their projects without incurring the high costs associated with custom artwork. Additionally, pre-made graphics can be sourced from various stock photo and illustration services, such as iStockphoto, which are cost-effective.

Stock photo collections provide designers with access to high-quality images that might otherwise be difficult to obtain. These resources can save time and provide a wide range of options to choose from, allowing designers to focus more on the overall design concept and less on sourcing individual elements.

Cautions and Best Practices for Pre-Made Illustrations

While pre-made illustrations offer convenience, it is essential to be mindful of their limitations. Not all illustrations are created equal, and designers must consider whether these elements are appropriate for the project at hand.

For example, when creating a logo, it is crucial to avoid using copyrighted artwork or clipart. Using these elements can lead to issues of trademark protection and copyright infringement. A well-designed logo should be original to ensure that it can be legally protected and owned by the designer or the client.

Professionalism vs. Amateurs: Using Pre-Made vs. Custom Art

Professional graphic designers excel in knowing which parts of a project require their attention and which can be easily addressed using pre-made designs. While it is ideal to design every aspect of a project from start to finish, using pre-made illustrations and vector designs can streamline the process without compromising the final product's quality.

Professional designers are adept at mixing and matching different elements to create unique and visually appealing designs. They can leverage pre-made illustrations for inspiration or as a foundation, while still adding their own creative touch to ensure the final output is distinctive and tailored to the client's needs.

Case Studies and Examples

Consider the difference between a magazine designer and a logo designer. A magazine designer might insert a pre-made map into an 80-page publication, which is a relatively straightforward task. On the other hand, a logo designer may need to create a custom design, which involves brainstorming, sketching, and refining the logo to ensure it is unique and appropriate for the brand.

Some designers even use vector packs because these designs are quick to produce and can save time. However, they often rely on illustrations created by other artists, which they can customize and integrate into their projects. This approach allows them to maintain quality and efficiency without sacrificing originality.

Using pre-made illustrations and vector designs can be a valuable tool in the arsenal of a professional graphic designer. It is essential to understand the importance of balance and the differences between what a professional and an amateur designer might do. Whether starting from scratch or using pre-made elements, the key is to deliver a design that is both unique and tailored to the client's vision.