layout & composition p.2 | graphic design tutorial

Key Concepts:

Layout, composition, decentralization, movement, unity, variety, simplicity, balance, contrast, proportion, hierarchy, rule of thirds, rule of odds, golden triangle, C-shaped composition, L-shaped composition, V-shaped composition, Goshal design theory (similarity, continuation, closure, proximity, figure-ground, symmetry/order (Prägnanz), common fate), image and text composition.

1. Introduction

Daria, a self-taught graphic designer, illustrator, and content creator, presents the second part of a theory session on layouts and composition. This session builds upon previous videos covering typography, color theory, and layout. The video aims to provide accessible resources for aspiring graphic designers.

2. Layout vs. Composition

While often used synonymously, layout is considered more technical, focusing on the arrangement and organization of visual elements, including placement, sizing, and alignment. Composition, on the other hand, has a deeper creative aspect.

3. Principles of Composition

• Decentralization: Avoid central alignment to create visual interest and movement, encouraging viewers to explore the design.
• Movement: Position objects closer or dramatically apart to add tension and visual interest.
• Unity vs. Variety: Introduce variation in color, shapes, and scale to avoid monotony, but limit variations (2-3) to maintain visual unity and avoid overwhelming the viewer.
• Simplicity and Balance: Create readable and attention-holding designs. Avoid overwhelming the viewer with complexity.
• Contrast, Proportion, and Hierarchy: These are non-negotiable. Contrast is crucial for decipherability. Proportion and hierarchy guide the viewer, create visual flow, and give meaning to each element.

4. Compositional Techniques

• Rule of Thirds: Divide the workspace into three rows and three columns, creating four intersections (hot spots). Use these hot spots to position key elements or position the key element in one-third of the grid, leaving the other two-thirds open.
• Rule of Odds: Use an odd number of elements (3, 5, 7, etc.) to create visual movement and tension. Create unity through shape, color, or proportion, and then introduce variety and movement. Example: Three shapes (circle, star, square) in the same color (red) provide unity, while the different shapes introduce movement.
• Golden Triangle: Create a diagonal in a rectangle. Draw a perpendicular line from one of the corners to the diagonal, forming three triangles. Position objects proportionally to these triangles (large, medium, small).
• C-Shaped Composition: Introduces continuous flow, guiding the viewer's attention from one object to another, culminating at the focal point.
• L-Shape Composition: Forms a relationship between vertical and horizontal objects. The vertical object is typically the focal point, while horizontal elements are secondary. It introduces white space and avoids clutter.
• V-Shaped Composition: Secondary objects guide the viewer's attention towards the central focal point.

5. Goshal Design Theory

This theory suggests that humans instinctively seek order and impose structure onto visual designs.

• Similarity: Similar elements appear more related. Use similar colors, shapes, and styles.
• Continuation: Viewers are more likely to see flowing rather than broken pathways. The eye follows the simplest path. Position elements in hierarchical order.
• Closure: We tend to fill in the gaps of incomplete shapes. Often used in logos.
• Proximity: Objects placed near each other appear more related. Helpful for creating visual hierarchy.
• Figure-Ground: The larger area is interpreted as the ground (background), and the smaller area as the figure (foreground). Use contrast and proportion correctly.
• Symmetry and Order (Prägnanz): People tend to simplify complex shapes. We perceive five overlapping circles instead of intertwining lines.
• Common Fate: Objects moving in the same direction appear to belong together, even if they differ in scale, color, or shape.

6. Image and Text Composition

• Avoid repeating the image context in the text. The text should communicate a deeper meaning beyond what is visually apparent. Example: Instead of saying "It's a red star on a yellow background," provide a definition of a star.
• Mirror image elements in the text or design. Use a color picker to determine colors for graphics, texts, and backgrounds. Imitating image details creates visual unity. Example: Use rounded corners in text boxes to mirror the soft shape of a star in the image.

7. Conclusion

Design involves creativity and fun, but understanding the foundations is crucial for professional practice. Experiment, break rules, and explore new possibilities to potentially create groundbreaking designs. The presenter encourages viewers to check out her previous videos and reach out on Instagram with questions.

8. Notable Quotes

• "Decentralization allows you to create that visual interest and movement within your design."
• "Contrast is key if you want your design to be literally decipherable."
• "Design is about being creative and having fun, but seriously, if you're a beginner graphic designer or any kind of designer, make sure to know the foundations."