Where does a Graphic Designer noob begin?

learn everything at lynda.com m8, thats what i'm using but they charge a monthly fee, try youtube videos aswell

I really doubt you're going to find anything that will take you by the hand and say first, you do this and second, you do this.

There have been numerous threads here that ask "Where do I find images" with many people taking the time to post their favorite stock image sites.

There have also been numerous threads asking "How can find tutorials for Photoshop or Dreamweaver or CSS or HTML or JS or etc". Again, with Warriors responding with links to sites that can help you learn these applications.

Or Google "Photoshop tutorials" or "Dreamweaver tutorials" or "CSS toutorials". You'll get lots and lots of returns.

The information you're looking for is here and elsewhere on the internet - you just have to work a little to find it.

Before learning how to work with said software, you should learn the principles of good design, usability, color theory and everything needed to be able to use the tools in a effective way.

Do this first: graphic design theory - Google Search

Good luck with your quest,
Tyrus

Graphic design, I believe like any other other artform requires first inspiration, that will start you going I suggest you look at a lot of artwork it may not need be just graphic artworks it can be a painting or a photograph. Your instincts will tell you which artwork style you prefer and you can start creating stuff that you personally like, never mind what other people like first you can work on that latter on. While doodling around its good to know the theories behind graphic design and also or similar art, and you'll find out that they basically work around the same underlying principles and rules. You don't need to follow all these rules but least it would be nice to know which rules your breaking and then again you can slowly figure out along the way why your actually breaking these rules.

So start creating first I also suggest you copy other artworks first when your just starting to learn the softwares so at least you have a goal when doodling around, and then combine all those things you learned from copying the artworks to eventually creat your own "cool stuff".

I don't think such a thing exists...for me it was just A LOT of practice and playing around with Photoshop, etc. Probably not the most efficient way to learn the art but it worked for me.

Good luck!

Regards,

Chris

Try Tutorials - Online Training - lynda.com
They have a video tutorual in DVD for photoshop beginners. You can either buy it standalone, or become a paying member and get access to all their other tutorials as well.

Ive used some of their stuff and they are great.

Good luck!

Zoheb
www.eCoverCentral.com

You can also go through tons of tutorials online where they take you step by step, while showing you the screenshots. These range from absolute beginner to totally advanced, so youl have to spend some time searching for them.

Zoheb
www.eCoverCentral.com

I'll suggest a few sites... none of them are technically tutorial related but more inspirational.

www smashingmagazine com
www tutorial9 net
www psd.tutsplus com

I think those can get you started. It's a long hard road though, it wont be easy. As far as making you good at this, it comes natural, it's not something you can force. You either fall in love with doing what it is you're doing or you don't.

Good luck.

I'm with conversioncoach to some degree...
There's no shortage of free tutorials online about how to use PS or Indesign or illustrator.
The real rick is to take the time and read some theory.
My suggestion is to go to the library and pick up a few books on Design principles.
There are so many books on these topics... look for layout book, logo design books, line shape form books, etc...
Once you have a solid grasp of all these concepts, you will use them when designing without even realizing.
You're always welcome to hit me up if you need a hand. no catch.

best,
Pat

mess around with photoshop.

google tuts and things you don't understand.

you can get good at anything, just fiddle around and mess it up a few times.

You can start by taking a class online or get a certificate at a community college in web design. Once completed the course work will be used as your first working portfolio. This option is good when you don't have much money to get started. You can get a certificate in 4 weekends, plus have a portfolio created by you.

If you want the ultra free version, then yes there are some good tutorials on YouTube, or like the others have stated, you can just Google it. It will take work, ,but you can get it done, and it is easy to learn. Good Luck!!

The Freelance Squad

I have a great software program called XSite Pro. It's affordable compared to Dreamweaver, and easier to use, in that you don't need two semesters of community college to figure it out. It does take a moderate amount of skill, but the tutorials are really good. I can post a link yet, but you can go to my blog listed in my sig!
Good luck!