Whew.. it's like a never ending conversation about learning photoshop vs. being a graphic designer. I like to compare notes on this with photographers who dislike how everyone who picks up a camera thinks they're a photographer. The truth is that though the use of photoshop and digital cameras have hurt real graphic designers and photographers rates to a certain extent, the reality is that there is no real competition if your a good seasoned graphic designer or photographer.Here are couple reasons I came up with:
1. I don't know how many people have come to me saying "my friend said they'd do this flyer, business card, poster, logo, etc.... free (or extremely cheap) but never called me back." Time is money and your friend wanted you to know how cool they are for knowing how to use photoshop, but really have no interest in doing it for free for you. Besides, unless you don't mind the use of 5 fonts in 6 colors on a pixelated background with lens flare that is turned down by a printer who asks why your design doesn't include the bleed, you might want to try using someone who actually IS a graphic designer next time. (P.S. Freelancers do design for as cheap as your gonna find, "insert www.liquidreddesign.com plug" and also craigslist is there for you too!)
2. I've been to at LEAST 3 interviews for design jobs where they first showed me an average flyer design and asked "can you do this?" I of course said "yes" Followed by "oh because several people we interviewed said no right away." LOL! Don't embarrass yourself! My 8+ year design portfolio will destroy the flyers you did for your friends house party kegger. I admit, everyone has to start somewhere and it was really difficult finding jobs that wanted entry level designers in the beginning. But if you have never taken a design class, I suggest at least taking one or several because they don't just teach you photoshop believe it or not. They teach you what not to do, and the "secrets" to using fonts correctly and not making your design into a horrible piece of garbage.
3. You can't do everything! There, I said it. Though it's also hard for me to admit sometimes. You just have to suck it up and realize that even though you are really good at your current profession whatever it may be, you may want to leave print design, web design, and photography up to the experts so your business doesn't look cheap because you had your assistant design your flyer in word. I always look at the menu design when I go into a restaurant and decide on the quality of the food based on how well designed their menu is. If the menu looks cheap, I know not to go in if they want $19.99 for a turkey sandwich. This goes for every type of business. Everyone can tell that you "designed" your business cards on Vista Print and got them for free.
4. I admit, I've been stuck in a situation where the business I was designing for didn't have good photos or any photos and wanted me to shoot the product photos and/or photoshop the photos to look decent. Not only should (I) you be supporting the use of a professional photographer, but it really does look that much better when professional design is accompanied by professional photography. And vice versa to you pro photographers!
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