In order to become a production artist, a person needs a combination of artistic talent and knowledge about design. Simply being a talented artist is not enough to become a production artist, because this profession requires highly technical knowledge and the ability to work as a team. In terms of education, most companies prefer at least a bachelor's degree, although in some cases an associate's degree is sufficient. For upward mobility, it is usually a good idea to continue to hone your skills and talents by continuing to take classes even when employed.
The first step when attempting to become a production artist is cultivating artistic skill. This means not only an eye for good design and the ability to draw and compose art, but also the technical ability to create art in a variety of mediums. Currently, this includes learning how to create art in a digital form. Being comfortable with computer programs and all tools related to the job is an important step when trying to become a production artist.
In addition to cultivating talent, you must also acquire knowledge about graphic design, prepress operations, and all other steps that go into creating a finished file. A production artist is very similar to a graphic designer, but where a graphic designer's work is more creative, a production artist is responsible for making sure that art meets its intended goals. This position can be thought of as editing another's work or presenting that work in a professional way. Even though a production artist is an artist, he or she must be able to think about more than just the creation of an attractive design.
To become a production artist, a person needs to be able to look at requirements and translate those needs into a visual form. The production artist's job once involved cutting and pasting the work of other artists into a finished and polished piece. With modern programs, this process is highly digital and arguably more difficult. Technical knowledge is key to a production artist, and obtaining broad exposure to graphics software is essential. A graphic artist can be specific to an area, but a production artist must be flexible.
It is not always possible to obtain a position as a production artist without several years of experience. That experience may be as a layout artist or even as an assistant. Moving up to a position as a production artist can be easier if you establish a compelling portfolio. As a production artist, it is usually possible to move yet further up the ladder to being a concept artist or an art director.