What is a production artist?
Imagine being the superhero who swoops in to make sure every visual piece of a project looks absolutely awesome before it goes out into the world—that’s what a production artist does! They work in cool fields like advertising, movies, and even video games, making sure everything looks just right.
Duties and responsibilities
Production artists are the last line of defense in the creative process. They take designs from the drawing board and prep them for the real world, whether that’s a film, a website, or a billboard. They fix any little glitches and make sure everything looks perfect, matching up with the original vision.
They’re wizards with tools like Photoshop and Illustrator, tweaking images and layouts until they’re spotless. Whether it’s sending designs off to be printed or making sure a movie graphic looks stunning, they’re the ones making it happen.
Work environment
You can find production artists buzzing around in advertising agencies, movie studios, or even in the marketing department of a big company. They mostly work at computers in cool office setups, armed with the latest graphic design software.
These creatives often collaborate with other team members like designers, writers, and project managers to bring projects across the finish line. And when a deadline is looming? They’re known for their ability to stay chill under pressure and get the job done.
Typical work hours
Most production artists stick to the usual 9-to-5, but in some gigs, like in advertising or film, hours can vary a lot more. Some might need to burn the midnight oil to meet a tight deadline or sync up with teams in other time zones. Freelancers might have the most flexible schedules, but they’re always juggling creativity with crunch time.
How to become a production artist
Dreaming of turning your creativity into a career? Here’s how you can become a production artist and get paid to make cool stuff!
Step 1: Finish high school
Start by nailing your high school diploma. Focus on art and computer classes because you’ll need those skills to shine in your future job.
Step 3: Master the tools of the trade
Get really good at using design software like Adobe Creative Suite. Skills in typography, layout design, and having a sharp eye for detail are super important. Spend time learning these inside out.
Step 4: Build a killer portfolio
Create a portfolio that shows off your best work. It can be a physical book, a set of digital files, or even a slick website. Make sure it highlights different styles and screams professionalism. This is what employers will look at when you apply for jobs!
Step 5: Gain real-world experience
Dive into the world of work with internships, volunteer gigs, or even starting with small jobs. This is where you’ll see what the job really involves and start to polish your skills in a real-world setting.
Step 6: Start job hunting
Armed with experience and a portfolio, start applying for jobs. Whip up a resume that highlights your education, skills, and all the cool stuff you’ve done so far. Remember, a positive attitude and persistence are key to landing your first gig.
Step 7: Never stop learning
The design world moves fast, so keep up! Read up on the latest trends, join workshops, and network with other creatives to keep your skills fresh and your ideas flowing.
How much do production artists make?
Production artist salaries vary by experience, industry, education, location, and organization size. The ability to perform technical tasks efficiently, in-depth knowledge of design software, and experience with different media types can significantly impact their compensation.
Highest paying industries
- Advertising and Public Relations: $66,900
- Specialized Design Services: $65,120
- Printing and Related Support Activities: $62,690
- Publishing Industries: $61,850
- Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services: $60,170
Highest paying states
- California: $72,480
- New York: $69,210
- Connecticut: $68,730
- New Jersey: $67,650
- Washington: $67,380
The average national salary for a Production Artist is:
$56,750
Types of production artists
Production artists can dive into lots of creative fields depending on what they love to create. Here’s a look at some awesome ways you can specialize:
Graphic design production artist
If you’ve got an eye for style, this could be your gig. These artists design everything cool like brochures, logos, and ads, using their killer sense of color and branding to make stuff that catches the eye.
Photography production artist
Love capturing moments? Photography production artists snap pics for everything from big ad campaigns to catalogs. Plus, they get to play around with Photoshop to make those images picture-perfect, focusing on the best lighting and angles.
Prepress production artist
This is for the detail-oriented folks. Prepress production artists make sure that before anything goes to print, it’s absolutely flawless. They fine-tune colors, layout, and everything else to ensure the print comes out just right.
Digital media production artist
Got a knack for digital stuff? These artists create cool graphics for websites, emails, and social media. It’s all about knowing what works online and keeping up with the latest digital trends to make eye-catching designs.
Video production artist
If movies or YouTube are your things, consider becoming a video production artist. They shoot and edit video content for everything from commercials to how-to guides, making sure every frame is engaging.
Top skills for production artists
Becoming a production artist means blending creativity with some serious tech skills. Here’s what you need to succeed:
Technical skills
Get ready to become a wizard with design tools like Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign. These programs are your bread and butter, helping you whip up everything from basic layouts to complex graphics.
Creativity
This one’s a no-brainer. You need a big imagination to dream up designs that not only look awesome but also do the job they’re meant to. Being creative means thinking differently and coming up with fresh ideas that stand out.
Attention to detail
It’s all about the little things. Spotting a tiny mistake before it causes a big problem is super important. This skill makes sure everything you produce is top-notch and exactly what’s needed.
Project management
Whether it’s meeting deadlines or juggling multiple tasks, managing a project smoothly is key. This means planning well, staying organized, and keeping everyone on the same page from start to finish.
Communication skills
Since you’ll be working with lots of different people, being able to chat clearly and effectively is crucial. Good communication means you can share your ideas, nail the project requirements, and keep everyone happy and informed along the way.
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Browse our national database of production artist job openings and apply today
Production artist career path
Starting as a production artist opens up a world of opportunities. Here’s how you can climb the ladder and explore different creative directions:
From beginner to boss
When you start out, you’ll spend a few years just getting really good at what you do. As you get better, you might move up to senior or lead roles where you’ll take on bigger projects and even guide newer artists.
Dive into design and direction
The skills you learn can take you into awesome areas like graphic design, where you create visuals that tell stories and grab people’s attention. Feeling more ambitious? Step up as an art director or creative director in marketing, steering the creative vision of campaigns that could be seen by millions.
Try different industries
The cool thing? Your skills fit in almost anywhere—from tech companies to media groups. This versatility means you can switch it up if you find something that sparks your interest even more.
Go solo with freelancing
After you’ve racked up plenty of experience, you might decide to be your own boss. Freelancing or starting a design consultancy lets you choose your projects and could mean better pay. Just remember, going solo takes a lot of self-discipline and a knack for managing your own business.
Similar job titles
Position trends and outlook for production artists
The world of production art is always on the move, especially with all the new tech that keeps popping up. Here’s what’s hot and what the future looks like for those in the game:
- Stay sharp with software: Being a top-notch production artist means keeping up with the latest digital tools and software like Adobe Creative Suite is essential. The best in the business are always learning new tricks to stay ahead.
- Know what’s in: Knowing what catches the eye helps these pros create stuff that not only looks good but also connects with people. This means you’ve got to keep your finger on the pulse of the market to keep your designs fresh and relevant.
Employment projections
Looking ahead, things are looking pretty stable for production artists. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reckons jobs for graphic designers, which include production artists, will grow by 3% through 2031. As long as there are ads to design, magazines to fill, and reports to beautify, skilled artists will be in demand. So if you’re planning on a career in this field, it’s a solid choice.
Production artist career tips
Master your tools
Knowing your way around design software like Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) is key. But don’t just stop there—keep up with the latest tech and tools to stay ahead of the game.
Beat those deadlines
In the fast-paced world of production art, deadlines are non-negotiable. Manage your time like a pro, communicate clearly, and develop efficient workflows to keep all your projects on track.
Details matter
Having an eagle eye for detail is a must. You might be the last line of defense before a design goes public, so catching any mistakes is crucial to avoid costly fixes later.
Network, network, network
Building connections can open doors you didn’t even know existed. Getting involved with groups can be great for staying in the loop and meeting fellow creatives.
- American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA)
- Graphic Artists Guild
- International Council of Design (ico-D)
Never stop learning
The design world never stands still, and neither should you. Take online courses, hit up conferences, and maybe even snag some certifications like Adobe Certified Expert (ACE). Staying fresh and skilled will keep you at the top of your game.
Where the production artist jobs are
Top employers
- Adobe
- Saatchi & Saatchi
- Publicis Group
- Wieden+Kennedy
- McCann Erickson
Top states
- California
- New York
- Illinois
- Florida
- Texas
Top job sites
- zengig
- Indeed
- ArtStation Jobs
- Behance Jobs
FAQs
What skills are essential for a production artist?
They must have strong technical skills in using graphic design software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. They should have an eye for design and the ability to follow design guidelines. Organizing and prioritizing work, communication, and teamwork are also important.
Are there typical industry sectors where production artists are needed?
They are needed in various industries, particularly those that require visual communication. This includes advertising agencies, graphic design firms, publishing companies, printing companies, movie and television studios, and more. Some corporations have in-house design teams that include production artists.
What is the role of a production artist in a typical project?
Once a project’s creative and conceptual part is complete, they step in. They take the original concept and create a mechanical quality final piece that can be delivered to the printer or manufacturer. They make sure the final product meets all the necessary specifications for printing or digital output. Their role ensures that each visual element is correctly placed and fixes any errors that might be present. Think of them as the last quality control step in a project’s creative process.
How much interaction does a production artist typically have with clients?
They often deal more with internal teams than directly with clients. They may, however, interact with clients when more detailed explanations of technical issues are required. This can happen if there’s a need to adjust a design due to constraints in production or printing capabilities, for example. Good communication skills can help them explain technical terms and conditions to non-technical stakeholders.
Do production artists need to have a good understanding of print processes?
Yes, understanding print processes is vital. They are often responsible for ensuring that designs can be correctly executed in print. This includes understanding color reproduction, print formatting, types of paper or other materials used in printing, and knowledge of different printing techniques. They make sure the designs are print-ready, which means having the correct color mode, resolution, and file format.
Is it common for a production artist to specialize in a particular industry or type of work?
While it’s common to work across different types of projects and industries, some may indeed specialize. For instance, one might focus on digital graphics for websites and social media, while another might excel in print production for books and magazines. Specialization allows them to develop deep expertise in specific areas, but it’s not always necessary. Sometimes, having a broad range of skills and experiences can be more advantageous, especially in smaller companies or agencies where they may need to wear many hats.
What difference does a portfolio make in the hiring process for a production artist position?
A portfolio can make a significant difference. Even though their focus isn’t necessarily on original creative designs, a portfolio showcasing the ability to execute high-quality, polished work can impress potential employers. Examples of past projects can demonstrate their understanding of various print and digital formats, color management, typography, and other elements of the role. A well-presented portfolio can often give candidates an edge in the hiring process.
What kind of education is usually required to become a production artist?
Many hold a bachelor’s degree in graphic design, visual communications, or a related field. These programs typically cover fundamentals like typography, color theory, graphic design software, and printing techniques. However, getting into the field doesn’t necessarily require a degree, especially with the wide availability of technical training courses and software tutorials online. What matters most is a comprehensive understanding of design fundamentals and software, the ability to deliver high-quality work, and a professional portfolio to show this off.
How does the role of a production artist differ from that of a graphic designer?
While both positions work in the design process, their focus is different. Graphic designers are often responsible for creative concept development. They generate original ideas, layouts, and illustrations, using their artistic skills to communicate the desired message. On the other hand, a production artist is more involved in the technical side of producing the final designs. After the graphic designer has created an initial design, the production artist prepares it for final output, either print or digital. They ensure everything is aligned properly, the colors are correct, and the design is overall ready for production.