Principles of Graphic Design

Overview

• Sharing 20 years of experience in graphic design
• Fundamentals: layout, color, typography
• Compilation of valuable videos with over 1M views
• Aim: From beginner to familiar with essential principles
• Topics: Font selection, color selection, grids, design vocabulary, and tips

Nine Principles of Layout

1. Focal Point

   • Center of interest
   • Eye-drawing location, not center of layout
   • Example: White circle as the focal point even if not centered
   • Rule of thirds: More interesting composition when object placed along grid lines

2. Whitespace

   • Quiet areas for visual rest
   • Allows other elements to breathe and stand out
   • Example: Blurred background in a photograph focusing on a bird
   • Analogies to music: Dynamics in sound, requiring quiet and loud areas

3. Hierarchy

   • Prioritize most important elements
   • Orient and guide the user’s journey
   • Example: Headlines more prominent than body text
   • Practical use: Clear hierarchy in web design (headline, body copy)

Examples and Applications

• Effective use of principles in web and magazine layouts
• Incorrect use leading to cluttered and confusing designs
• Observing real world examples to train your eye

Additional Principles (Preview)

4. Grouping

   • Grouping related elements together
   • Example: Web navigation and clustered information on posters

5. Scale

   • Contrast in size for emphasis and interest
   • Example: Large headlines with smaller body text

6. Sequence

   • Cinematic flow of information
   • Example: User journey through the design layout

7. Alignment

   • Aligning items on vertical and horizontal axes
   • Importance of consistent alignment for a clean look

8. Balance

   • Visual balance without necessarily using symmetry
   • Example: Asymmetrical layouts

9. Grids

   • Structure and order through grid systems
   • Essential for achieving organized and professional designs

Conclusion

• Use these principles collectively to create effective and aesthetically pleasing designs
• Training your eye and practicing these principles will enhance your design skills
• Look for and correct poor design practices to continually improve your work