Graphic Design is an art form that has been around for centuries. It is used in all forms of media, from print to digital, and its principles are essential to creating effective visuals. The five basic principles of Graphic Design are Balance, Contrast, Hierarchy, Emphasis, and Proportion.
Balance is the arrangement of elements on a page in order to create a sense of equilibrium. It can be symmetrical or asymmetrical depending on the design requirements.
Symmetrical balance is where elements on either side of the page are equal in size and shape. Asymmetrical balance is when there is a difference between the two sides but still creates a sense of balance overall.
Contrast is used to emphasize certain elements by making them stand out from the rest of the design. This can be done through using different colors, sizes, shapes, or textures. Contrast should be used carefully as it can make or break a design depending on how it’s implemented.
Hierarchy is the organization of elements within a design to establish importance and order. This helps guide viewers through the message that the designer wants to convey by indicating which elements should be seen first, second, third, etc. Hierarchy can be achieved through color changes or size changes between elements.
Emphasis emphasizes specific parts of the design by making them more prominent than other parts. It’s important not to overuse emphasis as this will make all elements appear equal in importance and disrupt the hierarchy established earlier in the design process.
Proportion is how different visual components relate to each other in terms of size and placement on a page or screen. Proportion helps ensure that all elements are visually pleasing and that they don’t overpower one another or disrupt each other’s effectiveness within the design.
In conclusion, these five basic principles are essential for any graphic designer looking to create an effective visual communication piece. Balance helps establish equilibrium within designs; contrast highlights certain components; hierarchy organizes elements into an order; emphasis focuses attention onto specific parts; and proportion ensures all components work together harmoniously.