We are surrounded by design; it exists everywhere we look – we just don't notice most of it.
Whether through print, motion or the web, graphic design is the art of visually communicating ideas or messages. Designers use typography, color, shape, photographs, illustrations and other graphic elements to create messages that grab viewers' attention for impact and engagement. Use this collection to elevate your designs and make a greater impact by expanding your knowledge in the following areas:
- Design guidelines and laws
- Design fundamentals
- Composition techniques and formats
Design Guidelines and Laws
It is critical to understand the guidelines for distributing the right information to the right audience and ensure you reach everyone in that audience. You play an important role in ensuring those who are supposed to receive the messages you create can perceive, navigate and understand them. 7 Universal Design Principals to Reach Audiences explains the importance of equal access in design. Understanding and implementing these seven principles will help you create media that seamlessly abides by Section 508.
Design Fundamentals
Design is the process of developing a plan for a visual product using visual language to communicate ideas, concepts and messages to a specific audience. A successful design connects the viewer and the message. Keep the three Cs of layout – composition, components and concept – in mind as you explore Design Concepts for Standout Visuals.
Graphic Design Fundamentals will guide you through the basics of line, shape, form, texture, balance and the rule of thirds. Learn how these fundamentals are applied to other design aspects in Graphic Design Fundamentals: Layout & Composition. With a better understanding of proximity, white space, alignment, contrast and repetition you can create projects that are not only striking, but functional and effective, too.
What is design without color? Colors have meaning and help communicate messages both on a visual and psychological level. Color Theory Basics will give an understanding of color properties, harmonies and temperatures. These fundamentals enhance projects to evoke emotion and drive impact.
Composition Techniques and Formats
Composition plays a vital role in capturing imagery accurately. Composition Techniques to Create Engaging Imagery and Composition: The Golden Ratio and the Rule of Thirds explain how to use creative elements in compositions. Being aware of basic composition techniques and knowing how to use them effectively can significantly improve the quality of your imagery.
Layout is another significant element of graphic design. Check out How to Produce a Layout in Graphic Design to discover ways design elements are arranged on a page. The design progresses through different stages during development. The product idea evolves with the designer's creativity and the client's input. Effectively using these stages in layout production can help you produce the best, most effective designs to communicate the intended theme and message.
As a visual communicator, it is your job to design the best, most professional products to deliver the right message to the right audience. Vector vs. Raster Images: Choosing the Right Format explains how to differentiate between image formats. Knowing how to discern between image types will allow you to format correctly and effectively.
Use this collection of resources to learn more about design fundamentals and principles. Understand how these elements come together in the design process so you can visually communicate your message with enhanced impact and engagement.
References
Digicast Productions. (2014, March 22). The Importance of Visual Communication. Retrieved March 10, 2021, from YouTube.
PBSoffbook. (2012, November 12). The Universal Arts of Graphic Design | Off Book | PBS Digital Studios. Retrieved March 10, 2021, from YouTube.