The Principles of Design used by Shumbafoot

 

To understand these principles, we need to know what design is. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, design is to create or to have as a purpose (basically to create with a purpose). So for example, Shumbafoot Art and Design specializes in graphic design when it comes to its contributions to our blogs. Once again from the Merriam-Webster dictionary, graphic design is the art of profession of using design elements (typography and images) to convey information or create an effect [however we are looking at our designs in general].

People have to love your design at first sight and these principles might help you bring the best to your followers or your audience.

1. AGREEMENT

This is the Shumbafoot version of the principle of unity which looks at the harmony and the relationship between your design elements in order for your design and your message to make vivid sense to your audience or anyone who views your design. Simplicity is very key when you are dealing with this principle because the more elements you add, the harder it is for people to distinguish and appreciate the relationship between your elements and this will discourage many people to revisit your work.

2. BALANCE 

This principle might be confused with the previous, but the difference is that the Agreement Principle focuses on the relationship between elements, whereas the Balance Principle focuses on the relationship between the space and the elements on it. With that being said, we need to understand the need for designers to utilise the entire space in order to avoid the crowding of elements. 

3. CONTRAST

When we looked at the definition of graphic design, we saw that it involves the use of design elements and the contrast principle brings clarity to the variety of elements that you considered for your design. Each element will have a unique colour or chromatic composition, size, texture (Opacity, reflection, dimensions etc.) etc, and all these contribute towards the weight of the design element.

4. EMPHASIS

This principle is very essential because it encompasses some of the ideas and detail required by other principles of design. For example, contrast focuses on the differences between elements and this means we have more important elements and less important elements. The elements which are more important convey the main message that you are trying to put across to your viewers. This means the more essential elements have to be vivid and outstanding on your design space in order for your audience not to waste time trying to figure out the gist of your message and its intended effect. This is where the Principle of Emphasis jumps in.

5. PROPORTION 

6. REPETITION 

VP Utano Paw | SFGS2021

If you closely look at the background of this image, you will notice that some elements are   recurring. This is what we call repetition and by   now you should realize that it is not that   complicated. 

7. PATTERN

VP Utano Paw | SFGS2021

 An example, take a close look at the background   of this image, you will notice that some elements   are arranged in a diagonal pattern.

8. MOVEMENT

Utano Paw @3