A graphic designer, also referred to as a graphic artist, is responsible for planning, analyzing, and creating methods for getting visual messages across to consumers.  This can be accomplished through film, print, or electronic media.  The graphic artist must be able to use a variety of methods for communicating the message.  This includes the use of illustrations, colors, animation, photography, and a variety of layout and printing techniques.

Graphic designers are typically responsible for developing the layout used with newspapers, magazines, corporate reports, journals, and a variety of other publications.  A graphic designer may also create the layout for service and product marketing brochures, promotional displays, and packaging.  As such, a graphic designer can be called upon to create logos for a company that are unique and distinctive.

With the continually growing use of the Internet, many graphic designers also work to create web sites and other multimedia projects.  In addition, a graphic designer may create the credits that show before or after movies and television programs.