PHOT 210 ~ Illustrative Image Design and Lighting

Two dimensional design is a visual language. Like any language, it is meant as a form of communication. There are many parts to the language of design. How you organize the parts of your design will convey something about you and how you perceive the world. A very strong design may even make the viewer feel as you have felt.

As a designer you are translating your perception of a three dimensional world into a flat medium measured in only length and width. The basic requirements for two dimensional design are a flat surface and some kind of contrast. The design materials may take the form of a line or shape, or a particular colour, value or texture. These five elements are called the elements of design.

Within the composition of a photographic image, the elements of design are arranged according to principles of organization which incorporate two opposing concepts: harmony and variety. Harmony brings together diverse parts to unify the design. Variety adds contrasts to bring interest to the design. Rhythm and repetition add to the harmony of a design while contrasting elements and elaboration of detail add variety.

                 ©2011 Amanda Krenbrink

                                        ©2011 Christy Thackeray

                                           ©2011 Kaylee Galvin

                            ©2011 Megan Walbaum