P1 Visual elements Flashcards
Signifiers
The primary means through which an image conveys meaning
What are the three signifiers?
symbols, icons (emoji), logos
What are symbols
An image that represents an abstract concept
What is an icon?
An image that is made to resemble what it represents
What are logos (signifier)?
A designed image associated with an organization or company
Composition/layout
How separate visual elements are arranged with respect to each other (size, position, orientation)
Position
An element’s position relative to another
Orientation
Elements position with respect to the whole page
Rule of thirds
An imaginary grid layout that focuses viewers’ attentions
What is the effect of rule of thirds?
Gives steadiness to an image’s composition
Where should most important information be placed (regarding rule of thirds)?
At the intersection between the lines
Negative space
The space not occupied by visual elements
What 2 effects does negative space have?
- Helps viewers focus on the dominant visual element
2. Can create an additional layer of meaning
4 elements of visual contrast
- Lighting
- Color
- Form (shape/line)
- Texture
Things to identify regarding lighting
- Brighter areas (point of focus)
- Warm/cold
- Bright/dim
- Soft/strong
- Direction
