Exploring Computer Graphics: A Complete Guide for Beginners
Explore the various types of computer graphics, the software tools used for their creation, career opportunities in this field, and the steps to kickstart your journey into computer graphics.
What Are Computer Graphics?
Computer graphics is a technology that creates images on computer screens. This technology plays a vital role in areas like digital photography, film and television, video games, and various electronic devices, ensuring images are presented effectively to users. Essentially, computer graphics blends design with computer science, aiming to entertain and engage audiences.
You can see examples of computer graphics in many aspects of daily life. Notable instances include blockbuster movies, such as the 2009 hit Avatar, which features the Na’vi characters brought to life through facial motion capture technology. Additionally, the images and icons you encounter on your smartphone when using mobile apps, as well as data visualizations like charts and graphs you may encounter at work, all showcase the power of computer graphics in action.
Types of Computer Graphics
Raster Graphics
Raster graphics are 2D images created from a grid of square pixels arranged in rows and columns. Each pixel holds information about its color and hue, and when combined, these pixels form a complete image. The more pixels per inch (PPI) an image has, the higher its resolution. As a result, high-resolution raster graphics appear sharper and more lifelike compared to low-resolution images.
Vector Graphics
Vector graphics consist of shapes and lines defined by mathematical formulas. This allows vector graphics to be resized—either larger or smaller—without losing quality or distorting the shapes. Because of this scalability, vector graphics are ideal for illustrations and designs that require precision and clarity.
CGI (Computer-Generated Imagery) takes 2D vector graphics and transforms them into 3D representations, which can then be rendered as raster images. CGI is widely used in television, film, and video games to create characters, environments, and special effects, bringing visual storytelling to life.
Interactive Computer Graphics
Interactive computer graphics enable users to guide a computer in generating images. Here are some examples of what you can achieve with interactive computer graphics:
Automatic Zooming: Implement automatic zooming on an interactive scrolling interface to enhance the exploration of a 2D information space.
Digital Sketch Programs: Integrate automatic adjustments in digital sketch applications to easily capture ideas in 2D using digital ink.
Clothing Animations: Introduce a dragging feature for clothing animations, enhancing the experience of dressing 3D characters.
Motion File Generation: Utilize motion files from a 3D animation database to animate characters based on stick figure drawings.
Indoor Lighting Design: Create indoor lighting designs through a painting interface that controls a robotic lighting system.
Non-Interactive Computer Graphics
Unlike interactive computer graphics, non-interactive computer graphics do not give users control over how images are created. Common examples include images used on websites or mobile applications, as well as 3D animations and CGI in films.
Computer Graphics Software
Utilizing computer graphics software opens up a world of creative and technical possibilities, allowing you to fully explore your artistic potential. Below, we present a comparison of five software programs, detailing their costs and features, along with user ratings from G2—a platform for discovering and reviewing software. These ratings provide insights into user experiences regarding ease of use and the quality of support.
- ZBrush
Cost: $29.91/month
Features: ZBrush offers sculpting capabilities, a variety of brushes, topology tools, polygon modeling, flexible workflows, and remeshing options.
G2 Rating: 4.6 out of 5.
- Blender
Cost: Free and open source
Features: Blender provides tools for lighting, textures and shading, sculpting, modeling, and rendering.
G2 Rating:4.5 out of 5.
- Adobe Illustrator
Cost: $20.99/month after a free trial
Features: Illustrator includes ready-made templates, 3D effects, the ability to intertwine text and images, and real-time previews of color and opacity.
G2 Rating: 4.6 out of 5.
- Adobe Photoshop
Cost: $20.99/month after a free trial
Features: Photoshop allows users to install plugins, save documents as cloud documents, utilize neutral filters, improve selections, and create live gradients.
G2 Rating: 4.6 out of 5.
- Maya
Cost: $225/month
Features: Maya offers polygon modeling, rendering, cached playback, motion graphics, and 3D rendering and shading.
G2 Rating: 4.3 out of 5.
Computer Graphics Jobs
If you're considering a career in computer graphics, it's beneficial to understand the types of job opportunities that may be available. Below is a list of some common job titles, along with average total salary figures from Glassdoor as of January 2023, and insights into responsibilities and typical job requirements from Zippia and ZipRecruiter.
Use this information as a foundation for further research to choose a career path that aligns with your long-term goals.
Computer Graphics Designer
Average Salary: $59,518
Responsibilities: Computer graphics designers create graphics for interactive websites, develop visuals for both print and digital use, and utilize graphics software to meet the needs of stakeholders.
Qualifications: To excel in this role, candidates should have knowledge of graphics software, skills in graphic design and computer graphics, and typically an associate or bachelor’s degree in graphic design, computer science, or computer applications.
Digital Artist
Average Salary: $54,344
Responsibilities: Digital artists use computer software to create digital art and design graphic images. They work with a combination of illustrations, photography, and text to produce engaging visuals.
Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in visual or commercial art, graphic design, or a related field is typically required. Proficiency in graphics software and artistic talent are also key to success in this role.
Web Developer
Average Salary: $82,534
Responsibilities: Web developers design and maintain websites, test new code, evaluate web modules, optimize user-interface designs, and provide technical support to stakeholders throughout a project.
Qualifications: A bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science, IT, or computer engineering is usually required. Essential skills include knowledge of JavaScript, HTML, and CSS, as well as expertise in UX/UI design and front-end development.
Animator
Average Salary: $58,059
Responsibilities: Animators sketch scenes, create storyboards, and animate characters, props, and scenery. They often collaborate with other creatives to bring films and games to life through animation.
Qualifications: A strong background in animation, motion capture, storyboarding, and motion graphics is essential. Experience with animation software and an associate or bachelor’s degree in animation, graphic design, fine arts, or computer science is typically required.
Game Artist
Average Salary: $59,935
Responsibilities: Game artists create art and visual elements for video games, using software to build characters, objects, textures, clothing, and more. They collaborate with teams and stakeholders to successfully complete projects.
Qualifications: Candidates usually need an associate or bachelor’s degree in graphic design, animation, or fine arts. Skills in animation, sketching, and familiarity with software like Maya, as well as UI skills, are important for this role.
Graphic Engineer
Average Salary: $82,204
Responsibilities: Graphic engineers create integrated graphics and visual effects systems for software applications. They work closely with artists and graphic designers to develop motion graphics and visuals.
Qualifications: Skills in programming languages such as C++, OpenGL, Unity, and other relevant technologies are required. Animation skills and an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in graphic design, computer science, or drafting and design are typically needed.
How to Get Started in Computer Graphics
If you're eager to embark on your computer graphics journey, following these steps can help streamline your efforts:
Get a Computer Graphics Education
First, identify the career path you wish to pursue, the projects you want to complete, and the specific skills, education, and qualifications you'll need. Most jobs in computer graphics typically require a bachelor’s degree in design, computer science, or a related field. If you already hold a degree, consider enhancing your skill set by enrolling in courses or obtaining certifications in particular areas of computer graphics. For instance, if you aim to become a web designer, you will need to learn various programming languages and gain expertise in designing user experiences and interfaces on the front end.
Experience Graphics Software for Yourself
While developing your skills through coursework, it’s important to familiarize yourself with various graphics software programs. Gaining hands-on experience will allow you to apply what you've learned, initiate new projects, and determine which software best suits your needs. Use the information provided earlier to guide your research on software options. Evaluate each program based on its cost, features, ease of use, job requirements, and how relevant it is to your career goals.
Complete Computer Graphics Projects
Working on computer graphics projects is an excellent way to apply your newly acquired skills, clarify your long-term goals, explore your potential, and bring your creative ideas to life. Consider undertaking projects that encompass various aspects of computer graphics, such as designing and developing websites, creating animations for films, or developing assets for video games. This diverse experience will help you build a robust portfolio and demonstrate your capabilities to potential employers.
Create a Portfolio of Your Work
As you complete your computer graphics projects, compile them into an online portfolio or personal website. This portfolio will be a valuable tool when applying for jobs, pursuing contract work, or networking within the industry. Ensure that your portfolio showcases the visual elements of your work, highlights your skills, and demonstrates how your projects are utilized. Additionally, consider sharing your portfolio on social media, including it in your resume, and creating profiles on freelance platforms like Upwork or Fiverr to reach a wider audience.
Apply for Jobs in Computer Graphics
If your long-term goal is to build a career in computer graphics, gaining practical experience is essential. Seek out entry-level positions, freelance opportunities, contract work, and internships. As you search for jobs, take the time to carefully review each job description to understand the projects and tasks you will be responsible for, the qualifications required, and relevant information about the company. This thorough approach will help you identify roles that align with your skills and career aspirations.
