Raster vs vector images: which one will work for your project?

As designers, we can choose from an array of images to add interest to our designs: photographs, illustrations, patterns, etc. Each image will fall into one of two categories: raster vs. vector.

Raster images are made up of lots of square pixels, and can be high resolution or low resolution.

Vector images are mathematically defined, so your software program calculates the line resulting from the starting point to the ending point of your design. Vectors can be scaled up or down and will not change resolution.

Here's a quick clip to explain:

Learn to Kern!

A really important part of making a beautiful design is learning how to make your type look really good. You can do that by adjusting the LEADING, TRACKING and KERNING. Take a look at this quick clip to find out how:

Using color to make your layouts pop!

You can inject some fun into your layouts by playing around with color! Check out this quick clip to learn the basics of color theory:



You can combine colors in many ways, and adjust the HUE, SATURATION and VALUE. Take a look at Johannes Ittens' color wheel below to help you figure out your color scheme!

It's time to reflect on your work!

It's time to reflect on your work!

Today's class will consist of a critique in which we will all gather around and look at each other's flyer designs. We should think of critiques as time to reflect on what we have done, think of what we can do better so that we can make changes and improvements.

Check out this quick clip:

The art of choosing fonts

Fonts come in two basic varieties: serif and sans serif. Usually, they look best when there's a bit of contrast, so pairing a serif font with a sans serif font is a good way to start your design.
Take a look at some examples of serif and sans serif fonts using the links below:

• Examples of SANS SERIF fonts
• Examples of SERIF fonts

Check out this short clip which gives a few tips on design with fonts:

The five elements of a great layout

An eye-catching layout is the key to a well-designed piece! Take a look at this clip to get the hang of it...



Think about these 5 concepts when you get started with your layout:

• Proximity
• White space
• Alignment
• Contrast
• Repetition

You will also need to think about whether you have large or small MARGINS, if you CENTER, LEFT JUSTIFY or RIGHT JUSTIFY your type.

Welcome to Beginning Graphic Design - Fall 2017!

Welcome to all new students and also to those of you who are returning! In this class, we are going to learn to see the world through the eyes of a graphic designer. Many of you are probably thinking "What exactly does a graphic designer do?" Here is a short clip which answers that question; let's watch it and discuss!

Two really famous designers you should know about are Milton Glaser, who designed the I LOVE NY logo, and Massimo Vignelli, who designed the signage for the NY City subway system:

NYC Subway signage by Massimo Vignelli

The I LOVE NY logo by Milton Glaser