Graphic Design Foundations: Layout and Composition

Graphic Design Foundations: Layout and Composition

2h 4mBeginner2021-02-02

Authors

Sean Adams

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
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