Category Archives: Graphic Design

The 10 Commandments of Graphic Design Arts – part 4

Continuing… Whether we are talking about scanning pictures, or shooting with a digital camera and editing in Photoshop, we should be aware from the beginning the use of images in order to have the correct file type. The same happens with linear files etc.

5. Thou shall not deliver a wrong dimensioned work

The first thing you should do before you even think of making a Graphic Design, is to consider the size of the paper, the geometry of the form, the cost. These things are pretty serious.

There are few times when a job is printed and then became confetti, because the production manager or the designer did not foresee the form’s use.

Let me explain: The choice of the paper dimension has three main rules: economy, implementation and aesthetics. In short, we are interested in a job whose shape and size will make it stand out from the competition. We are interested in the size of the form which reproduces in our printing so as to have the least possible wastage in paper and printing thus saving time and money of the client.

Finally, we must foresee the correct size paper, size consistent with the functionality of the form and conditions of use.

For example, a wrong choice of paper in a journal subscription can mean weight gain, which at some point after, this translates into higher costs of assistance due to packaging and shipping.

Even a simple business card, if designed with the wrong dimensions, will become large enough to not fit in any wallet. A book, if designed with a very large number of pages and a small width, cannot stand alone open on a table. Also, if the distance from the back is small, the reader cannot read the text correctly.

Beyond the issue of incorrect dimension of a document and the unsatisfactory margins, sometimes designers start with completely wrong dimensions when they create their documents. … Click to continue reading…

The 10 Commandments of Graphic Design Arts – part 5

Continuing…

6. Honor the links of your images

When we import various file types in our document, either is in a Graphic Design program, or a pager, we have two options:

• The first is these files to come into our document as a preview of formal quality (or high) of the original file – Link files.
• The second is to come and be integrated into our document – Embed files.

The problem occurs when the document (open or closed) arrives at the studio with some of these files missing.

Let’s first see what advantages and disadvantages each of the two cases have. When we have all our files as Link, then every time one of these external files undergone a diversification or a correction is reflected directly in our document either automatically or after we update the changes. Our document isn’t getting larger of all the files that we have introduced, and so is quite light, in result we do not burden the disk or system resources. On the other hand, if a file is accidentally deleted or moved or renamed, we have a problem. We must reconnect the file with the new name or new location with its reflection in our document. But if we lose or accidentally delete the document, then we cannot do anything anymore.

Assuming now that everything is Embed, this means that our records are all integrated into our document. Whatever happens to the external files, does not concern us, as it will not affect our work at all. Also, if you want to send the file open somewhere, this case is ideal because it will send a single file and not folders with Linked files.

In my view, usually the scenario with Linked files is what presents the most practical qualities, but needs to be careful, skillful and good classification and archiving files and documents. … Click to continue reading…

The 10 Commandments of Graphic Design Arts – part 6

Continuing… With the slightest mistake, the work will result in prepress with photos and lines missing. And here of course there is control on many stages to detect if something is missing. It is, therefore, a good knowledge of the possibilities the program we use has.

7. Thou shall not reduce the document’s bleeds

Every well-designed form must have bleeds, i.e. an area outside of the net, which is bounded by an imaginary line on which we must touch all objects, graphics, background, ribbed, pictures and anything reaching up to the edge of the paper that the client will keep in his hands in the final form.

It is inconceivable therefore to start designing something if we do not set the size of the page, we put borders and we do not put bleeds. And this is true whether we do posters, or magazine, or a simple card or a book. The bleeds in an one page document must be on all 4 sides.

So it is very important, before we set up our document, to talk to the printer and have agreed to the correct dimensions of the document and in particular the bleeds we will use. Want some advice? With the new Graphic Design and pager programs, we can put as many bleeds as we want. Of these, at the closing of the file, we can include only those we need. Consequently, it is better to have more bleeds even if we won’t need them, because we can cut them at the export to pdf, than to prove out that we had to use more. A typical bleed can range from 3 to 5 mm. Say, at least 5 to be covered, except in special cases where you may need more or less.

Control the work for proper bleeds and physical well-placed crop marks before it is sent. Do not forget that the crop marks must be offset. … Click to continue reading…

The 10 Commandments of Graphic Design Arts – part 7

Continuing….

8. Thou shall not print without an essay

Very often, either for reasons of ignorance, either for economic reasons or time frame reasons, we avoid asking for an essay before printing. In some cases we actually do with low budget work is partly justified. The only thing that can cover us and protect us is an essay. This is our color map in which we will be able to get right to the desired result. Moreover, the signature of the client in the essay, contract proof, constitutes contract and acceptance of the final result. It covers everybody, if it is right and if it is properly calibrated to the output.

9. Thou shall not use neither more, nor less analysis

A typical mistake that one encounters is the wrong analysis of the images. A picture should be no less nor more resolution than it should have. It all starts with the quality of the paper or printing material and the lpi.

For example, a newspaper to be printed to 90lpi needs maximum 180ppi images. Similarly, a coated paper to be printed offset in 150lpi will need maximum 300ppi resolution images.

     10.  Thou shall not avoid the truth of transparency

More and more often, because of the potentials of modern Graphic Design and paging programs, there are problems arising from the poor and imprudent use of transparency and lack of its management. However, things are very simple. Never use transparency over text. As simple as that!

And if we do not want our linear converted to bitmap, never use complex transparencies above linear.

Each technology has its limits and we should learn the capabilities of the tools we use to grope and technological limits of an option, such as the use of slides in a document.

For God’s sake, I do not try to prevent you from the use of transparency. Transparency is not a problem when used correctly and in moderation.

Detailed instructions are provided in each software, one might use to properly extract files in pdf.

Graphic Design of Text and Graphics logos

Design with inspiration and creativity, logos that have durability.

The logo is the most important element of a company that follows it forever. It is the unique “identity” that makes the first impression and its purpose is to create and transmit a first impression for a business. That is why the most important in the creation is to think about what impression you want a customer to form seeing the logo of your company.

The main types of logos are:

Text Logos

The text logo is based on a font associated with the appropriate colors and effects just like Coca-Cola. They create a sense of a great company but needs more time to be recognized by the general public.

Graphics Logos

Graphical logos are what their name says, based on a graphic example like eg. Apple. These graphics logos are identified so you do not need to be accompanied by the name of the company. But like the text logos so graphics logos need more time to be recognized by the general public.

Text Logos and Graphics

These logos are a combination of text which usually is the name of the company in conjunction with a graphic that refers to the services and products of a company. These logos are the most popular because they are more quickly identified and with no special advertising effort to be memorized by the public.

An important element in the creation of a logo should its simplicity (see all large companies), as well as it should be printed in all the range of materials and sizes as in monochrome black (definitely will need to be sent by fax or photocopy out sometime). You should also think about the length of time and not faithfully follow the latest fashions.

Logo Design Process

• Recording and studying of the object of your business
• Plan a series of draft logos based on your needs and preferences
• Presentation, evaluation and reporting of any comments
• Proceed and complete the logo according to your comments.

Logo Creation – Cost:

The cost of a logo’s Graphic Design is based on the time it will take to make the communication, design, market research, quantity and outline the changes.

Design your logo, brochures, promotional photos, the site colors and images, informative emails on the style and colors of the site and anything related to graphics.

In essence, you create your online identity.

The Graphic Design of a Good Product Package – part 1

How to Design a successful package?

A package is not just a box or a bag into which a product is transported. It also plays a role in the promotion of the product and the overall image. A nice Graphic Design or the use of quality materials will grab the attention of consumers to spend more time on the product. Designing a package is important to bear in mind the test of 2.6 seconds. This is the average time in which the package must win the consumer to distinguish one product from the shelf.

During this time the package should:

• Distinguish between a plurality of competitors
• Do the type of product understandable
• Grab the interest of the consumer to seek more information

After its goal of getting the product to the consumer’s hands is achieved, must:

• Facilitate the consumer to find the instructions and information of the product and contents of the pack
• Give evidence why the consumer needs the product
• Convince the consumer to buy

Key elements for an effective package

Beware of dimensions. Provided that the packaging is intended for a particular product, please refer to the size of the product and the packaging construct dimensions that serve a range of needs such as protection of the product during transportation, easy removal of the packaging and storage of a large number of packs.

Less is more! The more simple and minimalist the model is the more elegant and attractive is the packaging. Provide a strong element which is directly related to the identity of the product and avoid excessive use of unnecessary widgets.

• Limit information to the absolutely necessary. Most people do not like to read information in small print and won’t.
• Use short and concise sentences.
• Make sure that the Graphic Design and images you are using support the product’s features.

Click to continue for part 2

The Graphic Design of a Good Product Package – part 2

Continuing… Find the balance between Graphic Design, the combination of colors, texts and images. Although all of these are completely different elements is necessary to be combined in such a way that there is complete balance between them. All together must form a single image.

Ask the opinion of people you trust. A “fresh look” always gives a different and quite often successful aspect.

Retail Bags

A type of packaging quite widespread is retail bags. These bags serve both a utilitarian need, but they also illustrate the identity and character of a company. Their use is different from the product packaging. Retail bags are meant for the easy transport of products by consumers when buying from shops. These products may already have their own packaging or not. In any case, the bag will be constructed in such a size and with suitable materials to withstand the likely expense of the product and the shape of the package, to facilitate transfer by the consumer. Therefore by constructing a bag we should keep in mind the following:

• Type of products
• Product Size

Product Weight

Typically consumers, after carry with comfort the product purchased and provided that the bag remains in good condition they re-use it for different transport. In this case the bag functions as an advertising medium of the store.

For a successful advertising of the store through the use of the bag from consumers, we need to implement the following:

• It is important to have clear evidence of corporate identity connecting the store with the bag “marketed” as to be easily recognizable
• The logo is prominently. Avoid a Graphic Design that have no direct relationship and “steal the show”
• Emphasize a strong point that will grab the interest
• Although this package is not in a shelf among competitors is important to distinguish between a plurality of bags circulating daily
• The contact details of the store should be located in a conspicuous place in large and legible letters but not playing a leading role.

The Graphic Design of a Good Website

How to design a good website

Designing a good website is not only beautiful colors and graphics. As a bad plan can hurt a website, the same can happen to a website which has the most impressive graphics, but does not give the visitor the information they need with a friendly way. The usability and nice don’t have to operated independently. Must always the one support the other.

Content

It is important to clarify in your mind the target audience. This will help to give a precise and clear style of the website. It can be:

• Serious
• Business
• Educational
• Pleasant – Happy
• Creative
• Informative

So consider the style you want to have and make sure the Graphic Design you choose and the texts are written according to this style. It is essential to be a combination of both for what you want to show through your website and what perhaps a visitor would like to find.

• Correct architecture
• Proper structuring of information is the most important element for a website

The categories that will divide the information must have a reason easily recognizable by the visitor. Use simple language and not highly specialized terminology.

All information should be placed in conspicuous locations corresponding to the navigation bar located on all pages to make it easy for the user to refer to them from anywhere they are on the website.

Each page should contain real information. Interim pages with lists of links just grow the “path” of the visitor to reach the information you need.

Each page should contain what its name describes. For example, the page “Order Form” must contain an order form and not to lead in an orders section page of the company.

Optical communication

Many people misunderstand the purpose of visual communication on a website. The purpose of the Graphic Design support is the content and not to impress the visitor.

Note the text is legible and has large and simple fonts and bold colors.

The graphics you use should have a purpose and be associated with the content. Do not use unnecessary data.

The colors you choose should match the style you want to give your website.

You also need:

• Accessibility
• Avoid Flash
• Do not use tables
• Do not use special icons without text especially in navigation bar

The Graphic Design of a Good Poster

A good poster should be:

1. Easy to read

The public does not want to read a poster but have a look. Therefore, the key to creating a good poster is simplicity achieved through the use of simple and everyday language, distinct and readable data without loss of essential information.

2. Properly organized

The title should be brief and concise and have a structure, provide a brief summary to orient the viewer.

• Title
• Content
• Information
• Brief

Studies have shown that a poster has only 11 seconds available to draw public attention and to convey its message.

Before you begin creating the Graphic Design have in mind the places you will post your posters and select the appropriate paper size and type. If your posters are meant to be outdoors they have to be laminated and get more resistant to all weather conditions.

Choose the main message you want to spread, keep it short and straightforward and use it as a title for your poster. Calculate the space you have and distribute the data so that there is an aesthetic balance. Create strong contrasts (contrasts as for colors, shapes and sizes of components) and give greater weight to the title. Use colors and combinations that do not tire the eyes.

The title should be large enough to be read easily from a distance of 5-6 meters. Place the elements of the poster so as to create small groups and use fonts that are clear and help the public to easily read the information on the poster.

Do not overload your poster with unnecessary data. The only thing you achieve is to create confusion in bombarding the public with information not as important as the central message, thus pulling their attention away from the poster.

A poster of an event requires factors besides the central message (title) is the venue and timing of the organizer and contact information so that everyone has access to more information.

The Graphic Design of a Great Logo – part 1

Logo – The heart of Corporate Identity

The logo must make a good first and lasting impression. Its purpose is to create a memorable, recognizable image in the mind of a potential client and simultaneously to transmit, to the possible extent, information about the identity of the company or product. The logo is the heart of corporate identity and is often one of the key elements of the image one will obtain of your company.

Below you will find a number of points to watch out for as you draw or select your logo.

What to look for

The best way to start the Graphic Design of your logo or to evaluate a proposal for your future logo is to answer the following question: What impression do you want the customer to form for your company by seeing your logo? Secondly it is important to pay attention to a number of more practical issues.

• Choose a logo that can stand independently in every context you use it (e.g. form, website, product)
• Do not overload your logo with many small details
• Choose a logo printed correctly both colored and B&W
• Choose a logo that can easily be embossed
• Choose a logo that is simple and stands out even at a glance
• Avoid a logo with ornate letters that competes with other widgets
• Avoid lines and shapes meaningless the less the better

Types of logos

There are three basic types of logos which could be used alone or in combination with a graphic design:

• Illustrative logos
• A logo that clearly illustrates the activity of your business
• Graphic logos

Usually, a proposal by a creative agency should include some illustrative drawings from all three categories unless you choose otherwise.

• A logo which includes an abstract graphic on the activity of your business. In many cases even a design without a direct connection with the activity of your company may confer a particular desired style.
• Logos based on the letter
• A small intervention in the font in order to place a feature of the company

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