As a graphic designer, there’s always a debate about using design platforms like Canva for specific projects. Some purists argue that it’s a less effective tool compared to Adobe programs. And I agree 100%. But I’ve been using Canva for a while now for some of my social media content work, and it hasn’t made me any less of a graphic designer.
But can Canva be compared with Adobe software?
No, It can not. Abobes software, like Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign (Adobe Creative Suite), is in a class for itself. I would go so far as to say that, Canva is shit compared with Photoshop and Illustrator. I have never used Canva for any big or advanced projects… Canva I use it only to create general Social media content and nothing too advanced. It’s an excellent choice to quickly create a sharp image for your Facebook or Instagram feed.
So, why do some graphic designers turn their noses up at using Canva? And why do I think it’s a legitimate tool for specific tasks? Let’s dive in.
1. Canva is a time saver.
One of the most significant advantages of Canva is the convenience it offers. It’s a very user-friendly platform that allows you to create designs quickly without needing advanced technical skills. As a graphic designer, sometimes you need to churn out designs rapidly. Canva simplifies the process and enables you to produce designs faster.
But graphic designers argue that Canva limits their creativity. They feel that the pre-made templates make it challenging to create something unique. But, Canva has thousands of templates you can easily tailor to your needs. Additionally, the platform allows you to edit templates and add or remove elements to customise them while saving you time. Again, this makes it perfect to quickly create something that looks ok for Facebook.
2. Cost-effective platform
Adobe Creative Suite is expensive compared with Canva. Still, no graphic designer with a class tries to save money and only using Canva would not survive as a graphic designer if we only used Canva. And If I were talking with someone that says they are a graphic designer and only use Canva, I would probably laugh.
3. Canva is great for social media graphics.
Social media graphics are highly visual assets that require exceptional design skills similar to what Canva offers. With Canva, creating social media graphics efficiently and quickly is easy, with stunning designs that meet the platform’s varied design parameters. Additionally, Canva offers you standard recommendations and trends on how to create excellent social media graphics.
4. Skills matter, not the tool
Finally, we should stop arguing over what tool is better, Any with some comment sense understands that Adobe programmes are so much better, but in the end, it comes down to your skills.
A graphic designer’s talent isn’t defined by the tools but rather by their ability to manipulate colour, typography, layout, and visual images to create striking designs. Canva is just a tool to help stir our creative process.
There’s no rule stating we should all stick to one tool; it’s about using the right tool for specific tasks.
Conclusion:
In summary, I firmly believe we can make good designs by using Canva for some projects, which doesn’t make us less of a graphic designers.
Canva is an excellent tool for some design projects, and just because we’re using it doesn’t mean we’re sacrificing on our creativity. We’ll create designs that stand out if we have the skill and creativity.
So, let’s take the time to appreciate the tools that make our creativity and work faster and more efficient.
