Digital Arts
Milton High School
Principles of Design
material on this page is taken from: http://nhsdesigns.com/principles/index.php
Proximity
"Items relating to each other should be grouped close together. When several items are in close proximity to each other, they become one visual unit rather than several separate units. This helps organize information, reduces clutter, and gives the reader a clear structure...
When pieces of a design are scattered all over, the page appears unorganized and the information may not be instantly accessible to the reader.
The Principle of Proximity states that you group related items together, move them physically close to each other so the related items are seen as one cohesive group rather than a bunch of unrelated bits."
Alignment
"Nothing should be placed on the page arbitrarily. Every item should have a visual connection with something else on the page." The principle of alignment forces you to be conscious-no longer can you just throw things on the page and see where they stick. When items are aligned on the page, the result is a stronger cohesive unit. Even when aligned elements are physically separated from each other, there is an invisible line that connects them, both in your eye and in your mind."
Repetition
"The Principle of Repetition states, "Repeat some aspect of the design throughout the entire piece." The repetitive element may be a bold font, a thick rule (line), a certain bullet, color, design element, particular format, the spatial relationships, etc. It can be anything that a reader will visually recognize."
Contrast
"Contrast is one of the most effective ways to add visual interest to your page-a striking interest that makes a reader want to look at the page-and to create an organizational hierarchy among different elements. The important rule to remember is that for contrast to be effective, it must be strong. Don't be a wimp.
Contrast is created when two elements are different. If the two elements are sort of different, but not really, then you don't have contrast, you have conflict. That's the key-Robin's Principle of Contrast states, "If two items are not exactly the same, then make them different. Really different."