If you're planning on becoming a professional Web designer there are some things you need, such as a computer, monitor and software. The equipment listed on this page is the minimum needed to get started as a Web designer, along with some books that will help you build your skills and your business.
1. Macintosh 15-inch PowerBook G4
This is a stylish computer with a nice setup for designers. The processor will give you lots of power for running your software and it's nice and light for travelling and client meetings.
2. Apple 20-inch Cinema Display
The Apple Cinema displays make it really easy to view your work with the wide-screen format. This monitor will make you look forward to going to work in the morning.3. Wacom Intuos2 4 X 5 Tablet
A tablet might not be the first thing you think of when you think of equipment for your new business, but you'd be surprised at how useful it can be. And the Intuos2 4x5 tablet is small and reasonably priced.4. CanoScan LiDE 20
This is the scanner that I have and I find that it meets my needs for getting photos from clients shots to my Web sites. It is easy to use and doubles as a copier when combined with a printer.5. Canon PowerShot S500
When your client asks you if their building can be featured on the Web site, this handy pocket camera can do the trick in just a few seconds. At 5 megapixels, it shoots large photos that can be easily cropped down to your Web site size or even used in print work.6. Macromedia Dreamweaver MX 2004
As a Web designer it's important to have good software to build your Web pages. Yes, it's possible to build Web pages in Notepad and other free software, but if you want to look professional, use Dreamweaver.7. Adobe Photoshop CS
Along with Dreamweaver, it's key that you have a good graphics manipulation package. Photoshop is somewhat expensive, but it gives you the power and tools you need to do nearly anything you want with a Web image.8. Macromedia Flash MX 2004
If you're going to build multimedia Web pages, Flash is essential. Again, there are cheaper products available, but Flash is what the pros use.9. Learning Web Design by Jennifer Niederst
This great book will take you through HTML and all the elements of Web design. It's a beginners guide, but it's great for non-beginners as well. It covers many elements of Web design, from HTML, to graphics, to layout.10. HTML Pocket Reference
This is a very small book, but it will get you out of jams where other larger books would fail.