Design Esthetics #3: Layout 2

The distribution of visual elements in a design. A balanced design is generally appealing visually, but an unbalanced graphic can be used to guide the eye to the most important information.

• Balance
• Symmetry
• Rule of Thirds
• Scale
• Margins

The area outside the designated trim lines of a design that is still printed in case the cuts are not exact. Essentially a bit of ‘extra’ outside the edges of a design that insures against an inexact cut of the print.

• Bleed
• Symmetry
• Balance
• Rule of Thirds
• Scale

A blue reference line used to check the position of all page elements.

• Blueline
• Symmetry
• Balance
• Rule of Thirds
• Scale

An organized framework with even columns and rows that helps designers align design elements in a more efficient and accurate way.

• Grid
• Symmetry
• Balance
• Rule of Thirds
• Scale

The space between the design elements and the edges of the page, the width of which can affect the overall feel of the piece.

• Margins
• Symmetry
• Balance
• Rule of Thirds
• Scale

Small gaps between columns of text or images. The whitespace that creates breathing room for your content. It also helps divide your content without the need for placing a divider between them.

• Gutter
• Symmetry
• Balance
• Rule of Thirds
• Scale

When elements are arranged in the same way on both sides of an axis. Perfect symmetry is when elements are mirrored over the axis and exactly the same on both sides.

• Symmetry
• Balance
• Rule of Thirds
• Scale
• Margins

The act of dividing an image with two vertical and two horizontal lines to help designers determine a visually appealing focal point and balance their composition.

• Rule of Thirds
• Symmetry
• Balance
• Scale
• Margins

The size of one object in relation to another design element. Extreme differences in scale can draw attention and create drama.

• Scale
• Symmetry
• Balance
• Rule of Thirds
• Margins