Mac is considered to be the best computer for graphic designers as they need to deal with heavy load apps that work amazingly on macOS. The latest Mac computers integrate the M1 Pro chip that is powered with a 10 core processor that extends to 32 cores on M1 Max models.
Apple is all set to release the next-generation M2 MacBooks in March 2022 with robust speed and efficiency improvements. Apart from that, Apple offers countless benefits that make it one of the most preferred devices among professionals in the design industry.
Why Do Designers Choose Mac?
- Sleek look, intuitive interface, simple user experience, and fastest processor make Mac the first option of graphic designers.
- Apple keeps things straightforward; you can learn macOS easily without worrying about device maintenance and updates.
- Although prices are high, the premium build quality makes it worth investing in the device. You hardly see any slowdowns and glitches on Mac.
- If you have multiple Apple devices such as iPhone and iPad, having a Mac makes more sense as it allows better sync and connectivity across devices.
Being a graphic designer, if you have to work on macOS, here are some easy-to-follow tips to make your work easier.
Take Scrolling Screenshot on Mac
Did you know you can take a scrolling screenshot of your Mac screen and share it with your friends and co-designers when you are working together on a complex project? On macOS Mojave, press Command + Shift + 5 keys simultaneously to capture a scrolling screenshot.
For capturing the entire screen, press and hold down Shift + Command + 3 keys. macOS also allows recording of a particular area of the screen. To do this, press Shift + Command + 4 keys on your keyboard, and the job is done. Save the screenshot anywhere on the computer.
Learn to Resolve Scratch Disk Error
Using Mac means dealing with the scratch disk full error, which is more or less related to Photoshop and other image editing applications. Scratch disk is the virtual space on the storage media that Photoshop uses to store temporary files.
When it reaches the stipulated storage limits, the app starts displaying scratch disk full error, and you need to free up storage by deleting temporary files, cache, and cookies, as well as apps that you no longer use.
Manage Storage to Perform Better
Every process on your computer demands sufficient storage space for smooth operation. If you are running anywhere lower than 15% on a hard drive, you can notice your computer underperforming.
To keep the storage aligned with your requirements, tap on the Apple menu on the top of the screen and select About This Mac. Select the Storage tab and click Manage to view the four options that allow you to optimize your hard drive space.
Update macOS & Apps Frequently
When was the last time you updated all the stuff on your computer, from the operating system to applications to drivers? Spending a little time on your computer will make it up and running smoothly for the next couple of months.
Keep track of the available updates and install them on your computer when they are available to get access to the new features. Navigate to the System Preferences and click Software Updates. Select Update Now to install the latest updates of the existing version, or select Upgrade Now to install a major release.
Disable Resource Hungry Processes
When your Mac starts slowing down suddenly, it’s annoying and intimidating as you can’t detect even a single problem that is causing the slowdown. Well, the background apps can be the culprits, and you need to quit them as most of them might be running unnecessarily only to consume system resources.
To disable the resource-hungry apps, press Command + Space keys to get to the Spotlight Search and enter Activity Monitor in the search bar. Now detect the apps that seem to consume maximum resources and quit them right away. This way, you can claim memory and other resources these apps have released.
Sign Up for Photoshop Tutorials
Online tutorials available as video clips or podcasts can be good sources of knowledge, particularly for Photoshop or graphic designing beginners. If you are new to the image editing profession, sign up for online study resources to polish your skills and knowledge.
You can get some of the best graphic design ideas from these tutorials and implement them when working on projects. Besides Photoshop, you should also learn other editing tools to become an all-rounder with these applications. You can also read blogs to stay updated with the current industry trends.
The Conclusion
Working as a graphic designer demands a smooth running computer, plenty of storage, ample memory, and topmost media editing skills. Once you perform a combination of or all the above-mentioned tricks on your Mac computer, you will see a significant boost in your computer performance.