Technical Illustrator Career Description
As manufactured products become increasingly sophisticated, there is a growing need for technical information to be presented in a form that is acceptable to both experts and lay people. One of the most efficient ways of doing this is to use technical illustrations. These illustrations must be prepared by professional technical illustrators.
What am I going to do in this occupation?
Technical illustration is the preparation of visual images to communicate factual information of any kind. Subjects covered by these illustrations range from the most complex power station or aircraft, to everyday items such as cameras, calculators or televisions.
Regardless of the type of illustration or the subject matter, technical illustrators must produce visual images that are technically accurate. Even though the work of different illustrators may vary slightly in style and presentation, they do not have the freedom to produce works of art on the scale as exhibited by either graphic artists or other artists.
Most technical illustrations are prepared in line form using pen and ink, but technical illustrators must be able to work in various mediums, using many different techniques. These techniques include the use of an airbrush to produce the most realistic images.
Requirements
What kind of personality do I need? Technical illustrators must have a keen interest in general aspects of engineering and a fascination for finding out how things are put together and how they work. They must also have an interest in learning the many drawing and painting methods that can be used to create images of technical subjects.
As the work is often highly detailed and time consuming, extreme patience, dedication and accuracy are needed. Technical illustrators must have the ability to work as individuals or as part of a team.
Where can I work?
Technical illustrators may be employed in the armaments industry, the automotive industry, the aircraft industry or any type of manufacturing industry.
Can I work for myself in this occupation?
Technical illustrators can work on a contract basis for companies in need of their services.
|
