12 Principles of Design in the Visual Communication Process

Principles of design guide designers in creating visual compositions that are eye-catching to the audience. In other words, graphic design principles are a crucial reference for creating more attractive designs. 

Check out some basic graphic design principles that you need to know in the following article!

12 Principles of Graphic Design

Principles of design is a visual communication process that uses graphic elements such as images, text, colors, and others to convey information effectively. This field of design is quite complex and requires more insight into its principles to create functional aesthetic works. 

Here are 12 principles of design that you need to know:

1. Balance

In graphic design principles, balance is the distribution of visual elements in the layout. To achieve this principle, each element must have a balanced visual weight so that it looks harmonious and comfortable to look at. 

There are two types of balance; formal (symmetrical) and informal (dynamic). The balance can be achieved through elements with equal weight on both sides of the layout (symmetrical) but still balanced overall (dynamic).

2. Alignment

Alignment is a graphic design principle that focuses on aligning elements to create a neat and organized layout. In addition, well-aligned design elements will result in a more professional and readable look.

This alignment principle can help you direct your audience's eyes in the desired direction, improve visual flow, and provide connections between elements in the design.

3. Emphasis

Emphasis is the process of highlighting a particular element in a design so that it attracts more attention than other components. This can be done by using contrasting colors, larger sizes, or striking positions. 

These principles of design are intended to drive the audience's attention to the most important part, such as the title, the main message, or the visual element you want to highlight.

4. Color Contrast

Color contrast is an application of different colors to show clear differences between elements in a design. This graphic design asset is important so that text and images are easy to read and understand. Therefore, good use of color contrast can add depth and dynamics to a design, as well as create a clear visual hierarchy.

5. Repetition

Repetition is a principle that uses elements repeatedly to build unity and consistency. This principle can be applied to colors, shapes, textures, or other graphic design asset. In addition, Repetition also helps in tying design elements together, as well as making the design more cohesive.

6. Proximity

The principle of proximity is the placement of related elements close together in a design.  Elements that have the same function should be grouped, to create a clear, organized, and logical structure that is easily understood by the audience. 

7. Proportion

Proportion refers to the size relationship between elements in a design. These graphic design elements focus on adjusting their role or importance in the context. 

Therefore, the use of proportions can create visual balance and strengthen the message you want to deliver through design.

8. Movement

Movement is how the audience's view is led to follow the visual flow of a work. A good design will guide the audience's eye from one element to another in a structured and logical way. Because of this, movement can be created with lines, directions of sight, or arrangements of elements that direct attention to important parts of the design.

9. White Space

White space is the empty area around elements in a design. This principle aims to give breathing space so your design doesn't look full and confusing. Therefore, white space can increase focus on the important elements and make the design more elegant.

10. Hierarchy

Hierarchy is the arrangement of design elements based on their importance. It helps the audience determine the order in which information should be considered, from the most important to the least.

Basically, using the size, color, contrast, or position of elements in a design is a way to create a hierarchy.

11. Variation

Variation is a principle that adds different elements to a design to prevent a monotonous and boring look. You can use variations in shape, color, texture, and size to make the design more dynamic. However, you still need to maintain balance and not overuse variation.

12. Unity

Finally, unity is a principle that ensures that all elements in a design are continuous, consistent, and sustainable. You can achieve this principle by using elements that complement each other to display a harmonious design.

Those are the principles of design that you can apply to create an attractive design.

In terms of designing authentic and high-quality graphic designs or other creative assets, working with a professional graphic design partner like VISUWISU can be the right option.

VISUWISU has a whole experienced team in creating designs that are not only visually engaging but also effective in communicating your brand message. 

By utilizing our professional service, you can save time and resources effectifely. Contact VISUWISU now to discuss the creative demands of your business!