The Foundation of Graphic Design

Let’s start off with the most important question – what is Graphic Design?

“Graphic design is a craft where professionals create visual content to communicate messages. By applying visual hierarchy and page layout techniques, designers use typography and pictures to meet users’ specific needs and focus on the logic of displaying elements in interactive designs, to optimize the user experience.”

Examples of Graphic Design include the following:

• Corporate Designs
• Marketing and Advertising
• Packaging
• Publication
• Motion Graphics
• Art & Illustration
• User Interface
• Visual Identity
• Video Game Art
• Posters & Printed Materials

Graphic Design is an extremely broad term for several forms of art and design – and a lot more complicated than you think. Whereas basic art grants you the freedom to do whatever you wish, graphic design has rules that need to be followed since each design is intended for a specific use – most of the time to convey a clear and easily understandable message or to conform to the necessary standards in order to sellable.

Below, we discuss a few rules pertaining to Graphic Design in order to maximize its ability to stand out, be unique and appeal to the general target market:

Time allocation

Creativity is one concept that simply cannot be rushed. The greatest artworks weren’t created in a day and neither can anyone expect you to rush a piece of art that may be monumental for their brand. Irrespective of how simple or complicated a design may seem to the outside world, take the time to ensure that you put out your best possible work that you can be 100% proud of.

Colour Palette

We understand the concept of making your design stand out, however, that doesn’t mean that you need to use every colour under the sun. Keeping it simple means keeping colour to a minimum – usually, 3 colours working together harmoniously in order to create your desired effect.

The foundation of every piece of graphic design is black and white – with monochrome also being a very popular and powerful option.

Typography & Fonts

One of the biggest mistakes relating to graphic design is thinking that several fonts will make the specified wording stand out. In essence, it, unfortunately, does the exact opposite, with viewers not knowing where to look as nothing specific is standing out and creating a focal point that can be followed and interpreted accurately. Make use of headings with subtext to create order and structure, accentuating the words you wish to stand out. Also remember – some fonts simply do not work together, so choose wisely.

Effects & Filters

Even though it is 2021 and filters are the biggest craze – sometimes they’re not always your friend. When it comes to the authenticity of your graphic design, you need to convince others that what you put out is unique and unfortunately you won’t be too successful if someone spots your average Instagram filter being used. If a filter enhances the effect you’re going for – great. But try to keep your work as authentic and true to yourself as possible.

Foundation & Research

No great design magically falls out of the sky. Even with a sudden bout of inspiration, it is crucial to have a solid foundation for your design – which takes time to research and formulate. Being prepared and organized also means that you can more easily visualize your desired outcome and ensure that you create something that stands out above existing similar designs.