What is graphic design? Graphic design is the use of graphic elements and text to communicate an idea or concept. You have probably seen examples of graphic design without even knowing it. You see graphic design on t-shirts, billboards, TV and of course, the computer. There are different aspects of graphic design and different principals that make up graphic design. So what are they?

Principals of Graphic Design

What are the principals of graphic design? Design is meant to be informative and purposeful. Design is a process and it uses visual language to convey a message.

Color theory, composition and layout, perspective and typography all play an important part in graphic design. Color theory involves the qualities of color, color models, basic color harmonies and color contrasts. Composition and layout involves the elements of design and leading the viewer's eye. Using formal layout systems can help with the design.

Perspective involves the 3D illusion, 1 point perspective, 2 point perspective and 3 point perspective. Typography includes type anatomy, classifications, families and also measurements.

Graphic Design and the Internet

When you think of graphic design, you may get images of web page designers and internet geeks. Well, web design is the most common form of graphic design these days. But it's a high-paying and popular job. With more and more web sites popping up every day and more and more companies needing websites, there is no shortage of web designers needed. So there is always work for a good graphic designer.

As you can tell, graphic design is certainly needed in today's economy. It is a job that plays a big role and supports many different venues of business and society. If you want to learn more about graphic design, you can check your local library for books and you can always look it up on the internet for vast amounts of information.