5 Tips for How to Create Eye-Catching Graphics

Posted in: Branding and Graphic Design

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Graphics are a great way to share information. Breaking down large text blocks or sheets of data makes the information easily digestible. Because the information is easier to understand, businesses and individuals are able to reach a wider audience. But it’s not as simple as creating charts and graphs; there is more to consider when creating eye-catching graphics. You don’t have to be a professional to elevate your content, though—you just need to develop an eye for design.

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The easiest way to enhance your graphics is to learn the principles of design. Each principle helps set the foundation for a successful composition. Using them together creates clear, appealing arrangements. There is some debate over the number of principles, but here are five graphic design tips to get your designs going in the right direction.

1. Hierarchy

Before placing anything on the graphic, you need to rank the importance of your information. This determines your hierarchy. The title needs to stand out more than the subtitle, and the data needs to stand out more than the footnote. Determining the importance of each piece of information allows you to arrange accordingly.

2. Contrast

Contrast is the difference between elements. These differences reinforce the hierarchy. Create contrast through the use of different fonts, colors, or sizes. Designers may set the title in a big, bold font, then set the subtitle in a smaller, darker font. This contrast tells the reader that the title is the more important element.

3. White Space

White space or negative space is the space between your elements. Providing white space helps emphasize certain elements and reduces clutter. Balance in design refers to the visual weight each element carries. Spreading your information out provides white space and brings symmetry to the composition.

4. Repetition

The use of repetition reinforces your message to your viewer. In a range of graphics, repeating elements set a standard for the design. Using these standards to create unity allows you to communicate with the audience. For example, using the same background or header layout. This tells the viewer that each graphic belongs within the set. Similarly, be consistent with the typefaces you choose. Here are some typeface inspiration ideas if you’re stuck!

5. Color

It’s important to choose the right color palette for your graphics. Color sets the tone for your audience, so understanding the basics of color is helpful. Warmer colors such as red, orange, or yellow are more exciting; they invoke action. Cooler colors such as blue, green, and purple are relaxing and comforting to the viewer. You also want to choose a color palette with enough contrast, so viewers can easily tell them apart. There are many websites for creating color palettes. You can find some useful ones using these color tools.

Final Thoughts

Implementing each of these design principles will help you make your own eye-catching graphics. The more you understand them, the more you’ll see them all around you. Find designs that inspire you, and figure out what elements they’re using. Once you are comfortable using these principles with the text and charts, try adding more. Including imagery, such as photographs or illustrations, will make graphics even more interesting.

For both new and professional designers, these principles are important and can make a big difference in quality. Using them in new and exciting ways is what makes the graphics eye-catching. If you’re looking to up your design game, check out our website design agency services.

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