Graphic Design Foundations: Layout and Composition
2h 4mBeginner2021-02-02
Authors

Sean Adams
Chair of Graphic Design at ArtCenter
Course details
Layout and composition are the building blocks of graphic design. A strong composition will attract attention, clarify understanding, and engage the viewer whether the project is a print- or screen-based project, a still or motion graphic, a 3D or 2D graphic. This course explains the elements, principles, and tools you will need to create a successful composition and layout. Author Sean Adams explains the elements of layout (from shapes to space), how to use principles such as scale and hierarchy, and teaches how tools like grids, proportions, and color can lead to more compelling compositions.
Skills covered
Layout and CompositionDesign BusinessDrawingSmall Business and EntrepreneurshipFoundationsGraphic DesignAnimation and Illustration
Concepts
Introduction
- Introducing the foundations of layout and composition
- What makes a successful layout
Layout Elements
- Using shape and line
- Color and its effect in layout
- Color and meaning in layout
- Making words work harder
- Why negative space is important
- Size matters - Choosing the right size
Composition Principles
- Creating interest - Balance and tension
- The most important ingredient - Contrast
- Using scale for dynamic layouts
- Using repetition as a tool
- How to create harmony
- Hierarchy and understanding
Proportion
- The beauty of symmetry
- The asymmetrical approach
- Square proportions and organization
- The magical golden section
- More golden section
- Applying the rule of thirds
Grids
- Defining the anatomy of a grid
- Identifying different types of grids
- How to choose the best grid format
- How to create a grid
- Working with a grid
Attributes
- Exploring simplicity in layout
- When excess is good
- Consistency - Risks and rewards
- Surprising the viewer
- Rhythm across multiple pages
Image and Words
- How cropping images impact layout
- Combining words and images
- Unintended meaning with imagery and words
- Using images as compositional guides
- Using sequence with storytelling
Conclusion
- Breaking the rules
- Conclusion