Desktop PublishingBasic Design Principles &

Elements

What is it?

• Ability to design and develop publications by combining text, graphics, and design elements.

• The purpose of design is to help convey a message.

Design Principles & Elements

• All designs have certain basic elements or building blocks chosen to convey the message — beyond the actual words or photos used.

• How we place those items on the page determines the structure and overall readability. Determines how well our design communicates the desired message.

• The principles of design govern that placement and structure. Different designers have their own idea about the basic principles of design, but most are encompassed in 6 principles.

Design Principles & Elements

Balance

Proximity/Unity

Alignment

Repetition/Consistency

Contrast

White Space

Line

Color/Value

Shape

Texture

Space/Size

Form

Design Principles Design Elements

Desktop Publishing Hazards

• Forgetting your audience• Irregularly shaped type• Excessive underlining• Too many fonts• Grammar and spelling errors• Inappropriate borders• Inappropriate headlines• Violating the copyright law

Good or bad design?

Inappropriate/Offensive Heading

Color?

How does the color in this design make you feel?

Which restaurant do you want to eat at?

Who would you be interested in interviewing first?