Graphic Design Basics Course Notes

Introduction

• Instructor: Laura Kyung
  • 15 years of professional graphic design experience
  • Design courses creator at Tuts Plus since 2018
• Definition of Graphic Design: Creation of visual content with a communication purpose. Differentiates design from art.
• Importance of graphic design:
  • Makes content visually appealing
  • Organizes complex information for clarity

History of Graphic Design

• Prehistoric Times: Cave paintings (~38,000 BCE) indicate early interest in visual communication.
• Early Written Languages: Sumerians (3000 BCE) developed logographic systems for trade.
• Printing Innovations:
  • Chinese printing methods using wood reliefs (200 CE)
  • B. Shen invented the first movable type printing press (1040 CE)
  • Gutenberg's printing press (~15th century) brought mass communication.
• Industrial Revolution (1760-1840): Technologies like lithography revolutionized design practices.
• Digital Era (Post-1950s): Emergence of web design, interactive design, UI/UX, and digital product design.

Basics of Graphic Design

• Key Components:
  • Basic design principles
  • Color theory
  • Typography
• Role of a Graphic Designer:
  • Applies design principles to communicate effectively through visual elements.

Basic Design Principles

1. Balance: Visual weight distribution (symmetrical vs. asymmetrical)
2. Unity: Harmony among design elements; avoids clutter.
3. Contrast: Difference between elements to create visual hierarchy.
4. Repetition: Consistent use of elements for coherence.
5. Pattern: Repetition of multiple elements.
6. Rhythm: Visual tempo through repeated elements.
7. Movement: Path the viewer's eye takes through a composition.
8. Emphasis: Drawing attention to specific elements.
9. Proportion: Relationship of sizes among elements.
10. Harmony: Cohesiveness among elements of a design.
11. Variety: Adding interest to engage viewers.

Color Theory

• Color Wheel: Sir Isaac Newton (1666) organized primary, secondary, and tertiary colors.
• Color Temperatures:
  • Warm colors (energy, action) vs. cool colors (calm, peace).
• Color Spaces:
  • RGB (digital) and CMYK (print).
• Color Qualities: Hue, saturation, and value discussed, including shade, tint, and tone.
• Color Harmonies:
  • Complementary, split complementary, analogous, monochromatic, triadic, and tetradic.
• Color Psychology: Colors evoke emotional responses impacting brand perception.

Typography

• Definition: Strategic arrangement of type for readability and appeal.
• Historical Evolution: From ancient engravings to modern digital typefaces.
• Type Anatomy: Key terms (serifs, ascenders, descenders, etc.) and their importance for design.
• Type Classification:
  • Sans Serif: Clean, modern fonts; versatile for various uses.
  • Serifs: Easy to read, good for body text.
  • Scripts and Display Fonts: Unique styling for specific applications.
  • Variable Fonts: Multiple styles within one file.

Design Disciplines

• Graphic Design: Solving problems and communicating ideas using design elements.
• Specializations: Marketing, branding, UI/UX, packaging, motion graphics.
• Design Workflow: Steps from the design brief to concept presentation and client feedback.

Design Tools and Assets

• Software: Industry standards like Adobe Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator) and alternatives (Canva, Affinity).
• Organizational Tools: Trello, Milanote for project management.
• Design Assets: Fonts, color palettes, stock images to enhance designs.

Impact of Technology on Graphic Design

• Evolution of Practices: Increased speed and quality of digital graphics.
• Remote Work Opportunities: Greater flexibility for designers.
• Emergence of New Disciplines: UI/UX as a result of the digital revolution.

Conclusion

• Graphic Design Purpose: Balancing visual appeal with clear communication of complex information.
• Course Summary: Overview of key concepts, principles, and tools discussed throughout the course.