CCA1108 Lecture Notes - Lecture 2: The Balancing Act, Page Layout, Adobe Indesign
CCA1108
Weekly readings: WK5 Page Layout.
LAYOUT DYNAMICS
KEY POINTS:
Page layout, whether in print or web format, calls for a skilful balancing of diverse visual
elements throughout the design.
This chapter discusses how to use grid and path layouts to achieve a dynamic, unified design.
THE BALANCING ACT:
Layout design is a balancing act in a sense. It relates to diverse elements on a printed page
in a way that communicates and has aesthetic appeal. Every element on the page affects
how the other elements are perceived. Layout is not simply the addition of photographs,
text type display or artwork. It is a carefully balanced integration of elements.
The artist must select an appropriate typeface. The format size, and value contrast of the
typographical elements should be closely related to any images.
A good relationship between figure and ground is essential. No leftover space should be
unshaped.
A careful balancing of contrast can give the page dynamic energy that will draw the eye.
SIZE AND PROPORTION:
This difficult balancing act calls for sensitivity to proportion- the organization of several
things into a relationship of size, quantity or degree. Artists understand this through the
Greek sense “the golden section”. It is based on a rectangle that is subdivided into a square.
The square can be divided into 2 rectangles Each resulting rectangle can be subdivided to
show the same results.
An element large or bold in proportion to other elements on the page makes an obvious
visual impact and a potentially strong focal point.
Mixing strong standard sizes creates strong tension and compelling interest.
VISUAL RHYTHM:
Visual rhythm is based on repetition of shapes, values, colours and textures. Recurrence of
shapes and the spacing between them set up a pattern.
There are many ways to use rhythm is typography. Within a single word pattern of curves
and straights is created. It can be asymmetrical or symmetrical
Another form of rhythm is progressive rhythm which changes in a regular fashion.
GRID LAYOUT:
find more resources at oneclass.com
find more resources at oneclass.com
Document Summary
Page layout, whether in print or web format, calls for a skilful balancing of diverse visual elements throughout the design. This chapter discusses how to use grid and path layouts to achieve a dynamic, unified design. Layout design is a balancing act in a sense. It relates to diverse elements on a printed page in a way that communicates and has aesthetic appeal. Every element on the page affects how the other elements are perceived. Layout is not simply the addition of photographs, text type display or artwork. It is a carefully balanced integration of elements. The format size, and value contrast of the typographical elements should be closely related to any images. A good relationship between figure and ground is essential. A careful balancing of contrast can give the page dynamic energy that will draw the eye. This difficult balancing act calls for sensitivity to proportion- the organization of several things into a relationship of size, quantity or degree.
