A typesetter creates text for printing, using software and knowledge of printers, scanners, and photo production. They work for publishing houses, printing companies, and specialty item producers, and need a keen eye for detail and artistic presentation. A bachelor’s degree in graphic design or fine arts is preferred, but industry experience and a quality portfolio can also be valuable.
A typesetter is a person who creates text on a machine to be stored and transferred to a printing engine that produces bulk materials such as newspapers and magazines. The process used to be done by hand, with each letter and symbol meticulously placed on a grid that was placed on a manually operated printer. This method was replaced by a movable type typography used in an electric printer. In modern times, a typesetter typically uses letterpress software to create documents for print projects. She typically works for a small press company as their sole typesetter or for a large publishing house as part of a team of typesetters.
Typography skills are required by a wide range of businesses and industries. In addition to the typical jobs at book publishing houses and printing companies, a typesetter is often hired by companies that produce specialty items such as memoirs, family histories, and unique pamphlets and brochures. Some typographers choose to work on their own and also work from home offices.
In addition to knowing how to use typography software, a person with this job also needs knowledge about printers, scanners, and photo production and enhancement equipment. As most types are accompanied by graphics, drawings or photographs, a typographer’s marketing normally depends on his experience in all these applications. It is also helpful for her to be educated on the different types of printers. Depending on the brand and type of printer that will be used for the final production, it may need to make technical adjustments to its type and layout to get the best results.
A successful typographer usually has a keen eye for detail and a flair for artistic presentation. She is regularly asked to preview a page before the type is set. Her ability to predict how text and images will blend together on the page is important when choosing fonts and font sizes for body text, captions, and headlines. Clients regularly require multiple versions and styles of the design to review before making their final determination. Your decision typically takes into account both aesthetics and budgets.
Some employers require a bachelor’s degree in graphic design, computer-aided design, or fine arts to apply for a typographer position. Others are open to hiring a candidate with a high school diploma or equivalent if the candidate has industry experience. Experience applying page layout, design or graphics software is an advantage. A diverse and quality portfolio of work is highly recommended for anyone seeking a position as a typographer.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
