8 Ways To Achieve Hierarchy in Graphic Design
Graphic design is merely a tool to help visually communicate a message with your target audience. In addition to making something look pretty, you must consider how each element in a design implicitly communicates ideas and directs the viewer’s eyes to the most critical pieces.
People spend an average of eight seconds looking at any given design. To maximize those eight seconds, you can use the principles of hierarchy in graphic design to ensure you give weight to the most critical elements. To learn graphic design, pay attention to the following eight ideas.
1. Size and Scale
Adjusting the size and scale of various design elements helps the viewer understand where to look. The most important elements of your graphic design should be the largest, and less significant details should be smaller.
2. Color and Contrast
You can use contrasting colors to drive attention to a specific design element. The design element you want to draw the most attention to should have high contrast against the background and can also be a different color than the surrounding, less significant elements.
3. Typography Hierarchy
In graphic design, typography hierarchy refers to the different sizes, weights, and fonts used for different text elements. The main topic should be the biggest and boldest part. Furthermore, you should reserve decorative fonts for minor details and ensure the major ones are easy to read.
4. Spacing
Don’t underestimate the power of negative space in graphic design. You should give every graphical element enough room to breathe and use the space around it to make it “pop” off the page.
5. Proximity and Patterns
Patterns are repeating graphic elements that convey cohesion. Graphic designers love patterns because our viewers love patterns too. Grouping similar items together makes it easier for viewers to navigate our designs and extract the information they need.
6. Repetition
Repetition refers to using the same graphical element over and over again in a design. You can use repetition to create patterns and give your design more unity. Furthermore, you can repeat certain elements to create textures and patterns that make your design more interesting.
7. Leading Lines
As the name suggests, leading lines are lines that connect two elements in a design and direct the viewer’s eye from Point A to Point B. Rather than slap a literal line onto your graphic design, you can capture the essence of a line by arranging graphical elements in the same sort of shape.
8. Rule of Thirds
To apply the rule of thirds, you divide your canvas into three equal parts vertically and horizontally. Where vertical and horizontal lines meet dictates how the human eye moves across your canvas and is therefore where you should place the focus points of your design.
Hierarchy Makes It Easy To Learn Graphic Design
It takes years to master the art of graphic design, but we understand that it’s not always practical to hire a graphic design agency. For instances where you need a graphic, and you need it quickly, it may be easier to whip it up in-house. If you opt for that route, understanding the principles of hierarchy will instantly elevate your design and help your business look more professional.