Graphic designers are trained in effective ways to get a message across through illustrations, photos, graphics and type. They assist printers by selecting the type of paper and ink for publications and reviewing for any errors before final printing. Graphic designers work as freelancers or for companies such as ad agencies, newspapers and magazines. Graphic designers must keep up with current trends since customers taste will constantly be changing. It is important to have a good portfolio to demonstrate both design and printing skills. Prospective employment for graphic designers is good. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2008 there were 286,100 graphic designers, and projected employment for 2018 is 323,100.
Fine artists may also be printmakers. Artists take their designs and etch them onto wood, stone or metal and then print them from a printing press onto fabric or paper. Printing original pieces of art allows an artist to sell more than one piece of his artwork. Competition in fine art is high: 60 percent of artists are self-employed, and most artists will hold more than one job. In 2008, 38 percent of artists worked as art directors, and 36 percent worked as multimedia artists and animators.
Desktop publishers create brochures, documents and other material such as manuals and magazines that can be used on the web or printed. Printed material needs a higher resolution than web material. Desktop publishers may print from their own equipment or they can send the material to a printer. Desktop publishers usually work in a clean environment, with various shifts and pending deadlines. Formal training is not required but desirable. Job prospects are declining since most office workers are familiar with desktop publishing. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2008 there were 26,400 desktop publishers, and this number is projected to go down in 2018 to 20,400.
Prepress technicians take printing jobs from customers and check for completeness. They are sometimes referred to as "preflight" technicians. These technicians do not actually do the print job but make sure that everything is ready before sending to the printer. They normally get a sign-off from the designer once an agreement is reached that everything is correct. Prepress technicians normally require formal education, and the job outlook is not good with the increased use of computers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, prepress technicians' positions are expected to decrease 18 percent. In 2008, there were 61,200 employees, and this number is projected to be 50,400 in 2018.