11 basic principles of graphic design
Here are 11 basic principles of graphic design:
- Hierarchy
- Balance
- Alignment
- Emphasis
- Proportion
- Movement
- Negative Space
- Contrast
- Repetition
- Variety
- Unity
- Hierarchy
Visual hierarchy is an important part of good design. If all the objects present on the worksheet have the same importance, then nothing stands out. It is necessary to use visual language to tell people what is the center of attention first, second, third, etc.
Creating visual hierarchy can be done through scale (relative size of an element) and color. A typographic hierarchy can be created by using different font typefaces, sizes, and weights.
The point is to make sure the most important element stands out on the page compared to other elements.
2. Balance
Balance is the equal or balanced distribution of visual weight. Balance can be influenced by many things, including color, size, quantity, and space. The main purpose of this proximity principle is to make your work more organized and easier for the audience to understand.
3. Alignment
Alignment refers to how a text or graphic element is aligned on the page. Refers to alignment in relation to the entire composition (left, center, or right alignment) as well as alignment with one another.
4. Emphasis
Emphasis is the part of the design that grabs the user’s attention-in other words, the main point. Ideally, it should be the most important part of the design, whether it’s the headline, image, or CTA (Call to Action).
5. Proportion
Proportion, also referred to as scale, is the relative size of objects in a design. Elements that are larger in relation to others will stand out more and appear more important to the user. Smaller elements appear less important
6. Movement
Movement refers to the way the user’s eyes move in viewing the design composition. A dynamic design encourages a lot of eye movement, while a static design encourages less.
7. Negative Space
A design style where designers use color, blanking out or using a shape to create multiple meanings in a logo.
8. Contrast
A design style where designers use color, blanking out or using a shape to create multiple meanings in a logo.
Contrast has two very important uses. First, it allows elements to stand out from one another. A lack of contrast will result in a design that has only one background color with no other elements visible — not a functional design. A design where different elements are visible automatically has some level of contrast.
The second important use of contrast is accessibility. Adequate contrast between elements, especially text and its background, is essential for creating an accessible design. People with visual impairments may have difficulty reading text on screens that are too small or do not have adequate color contrast.
9. Repetition
Repetition refers to the use of the same or similar elements throughout a design, either in a regular or irregular pattern. It is used to reinforce certain elements while also giving a sense of unity and continuity to the design.
10. Variety
Variety is the spice of life, meaning that variety will make the design not look boring and look interesting to look at. Create variety by adding unique or unexpected elements to the design. Variety can be used to draw the user’s attention to certain elements or areas of the design, and make them stand out.
11. Unity
consistency, wholeness, and harmony of all design elements. By paying attention to the principle of unity, the work we create can be more cohesive and produce a strong theme.
How to apply the principles of design principles Learning and following established design principles in graphic design makes it possible to create a more cohesive design that pleases the user and offers a great user experience.
Ignoring these design principles should be done cautiously, and only after having a thorough understanding of the principles and the purpose they serve.