While graphic design and illustration are often mixed up, both of them help create the images that attract and inform audiences. Whether you need infographics, product packaging, book or magazine illustrations, or marketing visuals, graphic design can help you stand out. And if you want to be more creative, custom illustrations can help convey your message or share your story. This article will explore the difference between graphic designers and illustrators to maximize the benefits of these professionals. Let’s get started! 

What is a graphic designer?

Graphic designers create visual concepts to communicate information to various audiences. They create a cohesive style that allows people to identify with a company, product, campaign, or event. Most graphic designers use specialized software or tools to combine images, texts, and other design elements into graphics. Sometimes, they also create artwork by hand.

Graphic designers assist their clients in telling stories, communicating values, and creating public interest. They create images and layouts for some of the following:

  • Brand identity (logos, typography, and color palettes)
  • Website or app user interface
  • Books, magazines, newspapers, and other publications
  • Product packaging
  • Advertisements
  • Signage for stores, transportation, stadiums, and event spaces

Graphic designers can work in many settings, such as:

  • Ad agencies
  • Web design firms 
  • Marketing firms
  • Print and online publications 
  • Online and brick-and-mortar retailers
  • Non-profit organisations

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What is an Illustrator?

An illustrator is a creative professional who translates concepts, ideas, and stories into engaging visual images. They provide clients with either artwork or multiple illustrations in a particular style. The following are some of the advantages of hiring illustrators: 

  • Engagement: Users often like to read visually appealing material. That’s why illustrations are made to break down text and make it more appealing to the desired audience.
  • Improved understanding: Illustrations help thoroughly explain complicated concepts and ideas. This is especially useful for people who are unfamiliar with the subject at hand.
  • Brand Identity: Illustrations help create a better brand identity by graphically reflecting the company’s principles and personality. This helps develop consumer trust and loyalty.
  • Experience: Illustrations can improve customer experience by making websites and applications more user-friendly and entertaining. This has the potential to enhance sales and customer happiness.

What are the distinctions between graphic designers and illustrators?

The primary difference between graphic designers and illustrators is the intention of their work. Graphic designers communicate on a client’s behalf. They aim to provide information quickly with visuals that represent the client’s needs and values.

Illustrators may serve a similar purpose, but often, clients hire illustrators because of their unique ideas and styles. Their artworks help clients by associating themselves with the meaning of the illustration.

The common roles of  graphic designers include:

  • Client consultation: Graphic designers gather as much information from clients as possible to deliver the design elements to satisfy them.
  • Conceptualization: Graphic designers begin by listening to clients’ wishes and combining style elements they think meet them. They propose multiple concepts and then develop whichever a client prefers.
  • Font design: Graphic designers often design fonts to enhance a client’s message.
  • Graphic creation: Once the client approves the visual style, the graphic designer creates the individual graphics for use across platforms. This includes making posters, brochures, web pages, or advertisements.

On the other hand, illustrators perform the following duties:

  • Project consultation: Illustrators meet with editors, graphic designers, marketers, and other clients who explain how they intend to use the artist’s work.
  • Contract negotiation: Illustrators enter relationships with publishers or companies for multiple works or a long time. They negotiate pay, timelines, and project details.
  • Research: Illustrators may research to create accurate and informative artwork. For instance, an illustrator working for a historical publication might need to research to recreate style while also making political commentary.
  • Sketch production: Final illustrations might require intensive work and time. Illustrators often provide clients with sketches for approval before creating the final version.

Graphic designer vs. illustrator: who to hire?

Now you know the difference between a graphic designer and an illustrator. Your next question would be: what types of projects can these professionals handle, and how do you pick the right one for a particular project?

Do you want to promote a product or service with various visual elements? If your answer is yes, you need a graphic designer.

A graphic designer is the right person who can improve your brand in many ways. Here are the most common contributions of a graphic designer:

  • Visual identity. Visual identity comprises logos, images, typography, and color palettes. Integrating these elements with customer research will create a unique brand personality that entices the audience.
  • Marketing assets. A graphic designer can design various marketing assets such as flyers, brochures, and digital banners. Whether digital or printed materials, a graphic designer is your guy!

Do you want artistic visuals explicitly drawn for your project? It would help if you considered working with an illustrator. Here are some projects that an illustrator could help you with:

  • Print media cover. One of the perfect examples of an illustration project is the cover of printed media like magazines and brochures.
  • Merchandise. Do you want to promote your brand using t-shirts, mugs, or caps? Slap a logo on! However, few people would want your merchandise if you’re not an established brand yet. A custom illustration can change that. Now that you have a unique t-shirt, cap, or tote bag with actual art, you can excite your audience.
  • Packaging. A graphic designer can create product packaging. But, if you want something unique and creative, custom illustrations are the way to go!

Double the Creativity: Why You Might Need Both

We hope this clarifies the distinction between graphic designers and illustrators. 

Typically, graphic designers offer a more comprehensive range of services, making them ideal for full-time roles and smaller businesses. Conversely, illustrators often specialize in specific projects, so hiring a freelancer who aligns with your project’s needs is often the best approach.

A traditional design agency might be the answer if you require both design and illustration. These agencies offer a team of professionals capable of handling diverse projects. However, be aware that such services can be pretty costly.

Are you afraid of sky-high design costs? Penji offers unlimited design at a fraction of the price. Get high-quality designs on-demand without breaking the bank. Our affordable design subscription starts at $499 a month and includes 80+ design services with only 1 to 2 days turnaround time. Ready to experience the Penji difference? Watch the demo, choose a plan, and let us handle the rest.