If you’re like me, I’m sure many of you reading this think you have a pretty good understanding of what graphic design is. Billboards, logos, magazines, video games, vector graphics, and raster graphics: are all things that come to mind when I think of the graphic design. But what is it, really? It’s a profession, yes, but if we dig a little deeper, it’s truly an art – an expression of one’s aesthetic – for many.
For those of you who prefer a technical definition, we’ve got that for you too: But believe it or not, graphic design isn’t a black-and-white concept. To fully grasp the concept of graphic design, it’s important to have a solid understanding of the elements and principles that make up the design.
Line – The most basic of the design elements. Lines can be curved, straight, thick, thin, two-dimensional, three-dimensional – whatever really! A line is simply an element of design that is defined by a point moving in space.
Shape – A shape is a two-dimensional defined area created by lines. Different types of shapes include geometric, abstract, and organic shapes, all of which are basic elements of design.
Color – Color is one element that is especially important in attracting attention because there is a psychology behind the feelings that color can evoke. There are three main characteristics to color: hue (the color family), value (how light or dark the color is), and saturation (the purity of the color).
Typography – Typography is the art of arranging type. This one is critically important as it can greatly affect the design’s messaging. Different weights (bold, regular, or light), combined with varied sizing, colors, and spacing, can add power to the concept the designer is trying to communicate.
Texture – Texture in design refers to how things look like they’d feel if they were to be touched. For example, texture can be rough, smooth, glossy, soft, hard, etc. The texture isanother element used to draw attention. It can be added to other elements like shapes, colors, images, and types.
Size – Size is simply how small or large something is. In design, size is used as an indication of the importance and it can also create visual interest in a design by using contrasting sizes.
Space – Space refers to the areas of the design that are left blank. These areas include any distance or areas between, around, below, or above other design elements. Designers intentionally place spaces in the design to add emphasis to areas of the design