Basics of Graphic Design: Layout and Composition

Layout and composition are fundamental to know before starting on graphic design. It will help to make your work structured and easier. It will navigate the margins from the sides to the content on it. Layout and composition matter if you want to make your design striking.

There are five basic principles that can be followed for beginner to transform the work and sharpen the eye, they are:

• Proximity

Proximity can be simply described as objects related are grouped together. It placed the close elements to be seen as a unit. For example, on design we are likely to see graphic elements and text are separated. Separating text and graphic elements make the work easier to decide whether the design would be made in purely text or more visually attractive. Another example is likely that most posters placed their websites or social media information in the bottom, those are the practice of proximity principle. 

• White Space

White space couldn’t be described as a literal white space. It refers to the negative space, such as spaces between the lines, between the content, or even margins. It will help to define and separate one to another sections. By giving a white space on the design, it will make the content having room to breath.

• Alignment

The alignment principle refers to lining up the elements on the design. For example, if there is text under the picture, align those two elements in the center. If there are three elements arranged parallel, make sure that one to another elements have the equal space and together in a line. Paying attention to the alignment helps to make design look well organized. 

• Contrast

It can be easy to define contrast as to make one to another elements have differences. The differences can be shown in the focus of design or some details that the designer is wanted to point out. The contrast will highlight the important part of the design. To create contrast it can use color, adjust the size, shape or visual weight of an object, or use contrasting styles of text. The contrast is closely tied to hierarchy which will navigate the viewers on your design. Point out the hierarchy by deciding which elements you want the reader to notice first and next, then make them stand out by creating contrast.

• Repetition

Simply, repetition means the designer repeating certain elements in a design. It will make the design have a consistent look and feel. For example, use a specific color palette, choose to use a special header style, choose a certain theme and carry it to your every single design. Besides it’ll make design look aesthetic, it’ll make the design also easy to read. Once the viewers know what is expected, they will focus on the content given. 

Well, this is the end for today. By giving a little attention to detail, especially in these layout and composition, you can create a beautiful and professional look on your design. Other than that, it will make your work easier. Thanks for your reading. Next time, we will give you another basics to improve your design. Stay tuned on this site and see you!

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