Guide for an Art Director in Los Angeles

What types of companies are looking for an art director in LA?

Los Angeles is a major center for the entertainment, advertising, and media industries, and as such, there are many opportunities for art directors in the city. Some of the types of companies and organizations that hire art directors in Los Angeles include:

• Advertising agencies: Many of the world's largest advertising agencies have offices in Los Angeles, and they often hire art directors to help create advertising campaigns for their clients.
• Film and television production companies: The film and television industry is a major part of the Los Angeles economy, and many production companies hire art directors to help create the look and feel of their productions.
• Video game companies: Los Angeles is also home to many video game companies, and they often hire art directors to help create the visual elements of their games.
• Design studios: Many independent design studios in Los Angeles specialize in areas such as graphic design, web design, and branding, and they often hire art directors to lead projects.
• Marketing and public relations firms: Some marketing and PR firms in Los Angeles hire art directors to help create visual content for their clients.
• E-commerce companies: E-commerce companies in Los Angeles often hire art directors to create visual content for their online platforms and campaigns.
• Digital marketing agencies: Many digital marketing agencies in Los Angeles employ art directors to create visual content for clients' digital campaigns.
• Retail and consumer goods companies: Some retail and consumer goods companies based in Los Angeles employ art directors to create visual content for their marketing campaigns and packaging.

These are just a few examples of the types of companies and organizations that hire art directors in Los Angeles. As you can see, the opportunities are varied and the city is a great place to find a job as an art director.

How much money does an art director make in LA?

Art director salaries in Los Angeles can vary depending on factors such as the company, industry, and individual's experience and qualifications. According to data from Glassdoor, the average base salary for an art director in Los Angeles is around $89,000 per year. However, some art directors in the city can earn significantly more, with some earning over $150,000 per year.

The salary also varies based on the industry; art directors working in advertising agencies tend to earn more than those working in other industries such as video game companies. Also, the size of the company, a senior art director working in a large multinational company tends to earn more than a junior art director working in a small start-up.

Overall, salaries in Los Angeles tend to be higher than in other parts of the country due to the city's high cost of living. Additionally, many art directors in Los Angeles also receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and bonuses, which can add to their overall compensation.

Note: Salary is just one aspect of a job, and it's important to consider other factors such as the company culture, the type of work, and the location when evaluating job opportunities.

Here are some examples of average salaries for art directors in different types of companies in Los Angeles (according to Glassdoor):

• Advertising agencies: the average salary for an art director is around $96,000 per year.
• Film and television production companies: the median annual salary for art directors is around $112,000 per year.
• Video game companies: the average salary for an art director is around $115,000 per year.
• Design studios: the average salary for an art director is around $90,000 per year.
• Marketing and public relations firms: the average salary for an art director is around $95,000 per year.
• E-commerce companies: the average salary for an art director is around $104,000 per year.
• Digital marketing agencies: the average salary for an art director is around $91,000 per year.
• Retail and consumer goods companies: the average salary for an art director is around $88,000 per year.

But how to get an art director job in LA?

Here are some tips for getting an art director job in Los Angeles:

1. Network: Los Angeles is a large and competitive market, and networking is key to finding job opportunities. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with other art directors on LinkedIn.
2. Build a strong portfolio: Having a strong portfolio is crucial for getting hired as an art director in Los Angeles. Make sure your portfolio showcases your best work and is well-organized.
3. Research companies: Research companies in the area that are in the field you are interested in. Look at their portfolio, and see if they are hiring.
4. Apply to job postings: Check job boards and company websites for art director job postings. Tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific job and company.
5. Apply to agencies: Los Angeles is home to many advertising agencies, and many of them have art director positions. Research agencies that align with your interests, and apply to them.
6. Utilize social media: Utilize social media platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter to connect with companies and recruiters.
7. Take an internship: Internships can be a great way to gain experience and learn about the industry. Look for internship opportunities at companies or agencies in Los Angeles.
8. Be open to freelance or temp work: Freelancing or taking temp jobs can help you build your portfolio and gain experience.
9. Ask for referrals: Ask friends, family, or colleagues if they know of any art director job opportunities in Los Angeles.
10. Be persistent: Keep applying and networking until you find the right opportunity.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of finding an art director job in Los Angeles. Keep in mind that the job market is constantly changing and it could take time to land a job, but don't give up!