Learning Web Design...

[Sarah24]

Hi

What should someone interested in becomming a web designer need to learn? Obviously HTML, Photoshop, but what else? What would be a basic foundation that could then be built on? Also, is it important to have done a proper course in web design or is it accepted by companies if you've learnt along the way?
I'm really interested in getting more involved and learning a lot more about web design with a view to getting a job doing it... any suggestions or advice would be greatly appreciated

Happy 2006 to everyone...

Sarah

[bumfluff]

If you're interested in doing good creative work, concentrate on the design side for now, not the software. The programs are a means to an end and no substitute for a thorough grounding in design principles. A good knowledge of how design works is what will set you apart from all the kids with a hooky version of photoshop and dreamweaver.

You CAN self-learn, but how feasible it is depends on a lot. If you're totally new to it all, I'd say take a recognised course in graphic design and then an introductory course in web design. A basic web course is all you'll really need, that should teach you a little about the software involved and you can build on that knowledge in your own time.

[numpty]

I would agree with bumfluff. Quality design will set you apart form the rest, however a good knowledge of HTML and css would be essential. Dont bother with the likes of Dreamwever yet, at the end of the day its only a HTML editor, though it does have time saving features its better to learn from doing HTML by hand.

[Brian Turner]

IMO, CSS is the really big part to develop, not least for accessibility purposes. There are a lot of designers out there, but the CSS-only crowd are an elite, IMO.

Also, be aware of Search Engine Optimisation issues - keep away from databases, unless you know how to make them work friendly.

[frluk]

Hi everybody.

I read this thread with great interest.

I have no experience in web design but I am considering returing to school.

When it was mentioned that a course in graphic design would be a good first base, what was meant by ' recognised' i.e. could anyone give me some example courses ?

Also would I have to consider university level or not.

Thanks and Happy New Year !

[Pete_Wailes]

For webdesign, I'd look at learning the following...
Dreamweaver, and NVU
Illustrator, Photoshop, PSP, Apophysis (cool for background stuff)
HTML, XML, CSS
and probably Flash too. It's lame, but showy, and companies (though not their customers) love it.
Pete

[bumfluff]

Originally Posted by frluk

When it was mentioned that a course in graphic design would be a good first base, what was meant by ' recognised' i.e. could anyone give me some example courses ?

Also would I have to consider university level or not.

There are a lot of places that offer graphic/web design courses that aren't really worth anything because the certification isn't recognised anywhere else. Look for a nationally recognised standard. That could mean a HND, degree etc.

As for university, a degree is good, it'll probably give you a head start when entering the job market, but I wouldn't say it's necessary because most places will judge you by your portfolio work rather than what piece of paper you have. If that sounds like it goes against what I said earlier, it doesn't - the reason to go with a nationally recognised course is because they generally have the better course content and you'll learn more.

[e-stonia]

I suggest to learn Ajalx... Web 2.0 is the future

[bumfluff]

Originally Posted by e-stonia

I suggest to learn Ajalx... Web 2.0 is the future

Until she learns the basics, Ajax really isn't going to help, is it?

[e-stonia]

Originally Posted by bumfluff

Until she learns the basics, Ajax really isn't going to help, is it?

Well, start from HTML definatelly but only with HTML