Unconventional Creative Careers: Discover Your Path

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 18 July 2023 6 min read

Unearthing your unique path in the creative industry isn't always a straightforward journey. But fear not, there are plenty of unconventional careers waiting for you to discover them. This guide will illuminate some of these less-travelled paths, helping you align your creative passions with a fulfilling career.

1. Explore Graphic Design

Graphic design is a captivating intersection of art and technology. It's a versatile career path that can lead to jobs in various industries. Let's dive into some key areas to explore when considering this unconventional creative career.

Learn Photoshop

Photoshop is a game-changer in the realm of graphic design. Adobe's powerful software allows you to bring your wildest imaginations to life. From photo editing to digital painting, Photoshop offers a myriad of tools to create stunning visuals. Start by learning the basics: how to navigate the software, use layers, and apply filters. As your skills grow, you can experiment with more advanced techniques like masking, retouching, and compositing. Remember, mastering Photoshop is a process, so be patient with yourself—it's all part of your unique journey in the creative industry.

Practice Illustrator

Next stop on your graphic design journey: Adobe Illustrator. This software is your go-to for creating vector graphics—artwork that remains crisp and clear at any size. From logo design to typography, Illustrator is a powerful tool in any graphic designer's arsenal. Start by learning the pen tool, the heart and soul of Illustrator, which allows you to create clean, precise lines and curves. With practice, you'll be creating intricate designs and typography that can scale to any size without losing quality.

Experiment with InDesign

Last but not least, let's talk about Adobe InDesign. This is the industry standard for page layout and design. Think of it as the stage where you bring together the elements you've created in Photoshop and Illustrator. You'll use InDesign to arrange text, images, and graphics into a cohesive design. Whether you're designing a flyer, a brochure, or a full-fledged magazine, InDesign is your ticket to creating professional, print-ready materials. By mastering this trifecta of Adobe software, you'll set a solid foundation for your unconventional career in the creative industry.

2. Consider Photography

Photography is the art of capturing moments, emotions, and stories through the lens. This creative career offers endless possibilities to express your unique perspective. Here's how you can step into the world of professional photography.

Study Lighting Techniques

Lighting is a crucial element in photography—it can make or break an image. As a budding photographer, understanding different lighting techniques will help you create more striking and impactful photos. Start by studying natural light: how to use sunlight to your advantage, how to work with shadows, and how to capture the magic of the golden hour. As you progress, explore the world of artificial lighting: learn how to use a flash, how to set up studio lights, and how to manipulate light with reflectors and diffusers. Remember, every light source is a tool in your creative toolbox, so don't be afraid to experiment!

Invest in Quality Equipment

Quality equipment is a worthwhile investment for any serious photographer. But remember, it's not all about having the most expensive gear. Start with a reliable camera that suits your needs and a good lens. As you grow, you might want to invest in additional lenses, a tripod, a quality camera bag, and other accessories. It's all about having the right tools to bring your creative vision to life.

Build a Portfolio

Your portfolio is more than just a collection of your photos—it's a showcase of your talent, style, and growth as a photographer. Start by selecting your best work, but don't be afraid to include photos that show your progress and versatility. Remember, your portfolio is a living document. Continually update it as you develop your skills and explore new photography styles. Having a diverse portfolio will show potential clients your ability to adapt and deliver in various situations—advancing your unconventional career in the creative industry.

3. Examine Film Production

Film production is a fascinating field where creativity and technical skills intersect. If you're captivated by the magic of moving images, this might be your unique path in the creative industry. Here's how you can dive into film production.

Study Film History

Film history is a treasure trove of inspiration. It shows the evolution of storytelling techniques, the advancement of technology, and the birth of different film genres. So, explore the classics, appreciate foreign films, and analyze contemporary movies. You'll learn a lot from the masters of the craft—like Hitchcock's suspense, Kubrick's visual style, or Spielberg's storytelling. Studying film history is not just about looking back; it's about finding inspiration to create the future of cinema.

Learn Screenwriting

Screenwriting is the backbone of any film. It's where the story begins. If you're interested in writing, you'll find screenwriting an exciting challenge. The format is specific and the storytelling is visual, but the possibilities are endless. You could write a heartwarming drama, a thrilling mystery, or create a whole new world in a sci-fi script. There are many resources and screenwriting software available to help you learn the ropes. Who knows, your screenplay might be the next big hit!

Practice Editing

Editing is where the film comes together. It's the process of selecting, arranging, and refining the footage to create a cohesive and compelling story. As an editor, you'll need a keen eye for detail, a good sense of rhythm, and a lot of patience. Start by learning a video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro. Editing is a skill that requires practice, so start with small projects and gradually take on bigger challenges. Remember, in film production, every frame counts!

4. Delve into Fashion Design

Are you someone who enjoys transforming everyday fabrics into wearable art? If so, then fashion design could be your unconventional career in the creative industry. Let's explore how you can turn your passion for fashion into a fulfilling career.

Learn Sewing Techniques

Knowing how to sew is a fundamental skill in fashion design. It's like learning the alphabet before you start writing sentences. By understanding different sewing techniques, you can bring your designs to life. Start with basic stitches, work your way up to sewing buttons and zippers, and before you know it, you'll be creating your own garments. And don't forget, a good sewing machine is your best friend in this journey!

Study Fashion History

Fashion is more than just clothes—it's a reflection of society and culture. By studying fashion history, you can understand the influences behind different styles and trends. From the elegance of the Victorian era to the rebellion of the punk movement, each period has its unique fashion story. So grab a fashion history book and start exploring. Who knows, you might just find the inspiration for your next collection!

Create a Lookbook

A lookbook is a collection of photos showcasing your designs. It's a great way to express your artistic vision and attract potential clients. You can create a physical lookbook or a digital one on a platform like Instagram. Remember, a good lookbook tells a story, not just about your clothes, but about the people who would wear them. So think about the mood, the location, the models—all these elements play a part in creating a compelling lookbook. And most importantly, have fun with it! After all, fashion is about expressing yourself.

5. Try Architectural Design

Ever looked at a building and thought, "I could design something better than that!"? Or maybe you've always been fascinated by the way spaces are designed and used? If so, it might be time to consider a unique path in the creative industry: architectural design.

Learn CAD Software

First things first, you'll need to get familiar with CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software. These tools are a big part of how architects bring their visions to life. Software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, or Revit can help you create detailed, accurate designs. And don't worry if it sounds a bit daunting, there are plenty of online tutorials that can help you get started. So why not give it a go? Your future buildings are waiting for you.

Study Architectural History

Just like fashion, architecture tells a story about our society and culture. Studying architectural history can give you a deeper understanding of why buildings look the way they do. Plus, it can provide inspiration for your own designs. From the grandeur of Gothic cathedrals to the simplicity of modern minimalist designs, each architectural style has something to teach you. So grab an architectural history book and let the buildings of the past inspire your designs of the future.

Design your own Structure

Now for the fun part: designing your own structure. This could be anything from a treehouse to a skyscraper, the sky's the limit! Start by sketching your ideas on paper, then use your CAD software to create a detailed design. And remember, good architecture is about more than just looks, it's about creating spaces that are functional and enjoyable to be in. So what kind of structure would you like to design? Let your imagination run wild, and who knows, one day we might see your designs come to life!

If you're eager to explore unconventional creative careers in the fashion industry, don't miss Aaron J Hurley's workshop, 'Intro To The Fashion Industry: The Untraditional Route'. This workshop will give you a unique perspective on breaking into the fashion industry and help you discover your path in this exciting world of creativity.