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The 5 principles of Graphic Design:

• Balance - the weight of elements seem evenly distributed
• Emphasis - refers to the size relationship between elements
• Contrast - adds variety and emphasis
• Rhythm - is associated with eye movement
• Unity - all parts of the design must work together

4 elements of Graphic Design:

• Color - is a property of light. It is not an object in itself.
• Content - is creation with the intent of communication.
• Shape - is mass which defines figure/ground relationships.
• Line - is a continuous linking of dots, having movement and direction.

Principle 1 - Balance
Balance is achieved in a design when the weight of its elements seem evenly distributed. It can be formal or informal.

Principle 2 - Emphasis
The size of an element is normally based on its importance; the single, most important element is usually placed along the line of golden proportion, or at the visual centre, which is where the two lines intersect.

Principle 3 - Contrast
Contrast provides emphasis to important elements; it can be created using a variety of techniques.

Principle 4 - Rhythm
The design should lead the eye along an invisible road map. Here are five ways to create rhythm.

Principle 5 - Unity
All parts of the design must work together to communicate the message.
Build the page around a dominant element. Group similar elements.

Element 1 - Color
Color has three characteristics:
Hue (color) - The quality which distinguishes one color from another.
Tone (value) - The quality of brightness, the lightness or darkness of a color.
Chroma (intensity) - The quality of saturation or intensity of a color.

Element 2 - Content
The content may be addressed in subject matter or words. The form is the visual aspect - the "format" and the utilization of the elements and principles of design.

Element 3 - Shape
The masses a designer may have to deal with are: Geometric, Organic, Man-Made and Found.

Element 4 - Line
Points may be as small as a pinpoint or as large as a planet. The shape of the point may be simple or intricate. The line created by these points may be the line created by a pair of skis on snow. A line could also be a beam of light or a string.