Something that is singled out or made more prominent has emphasis. An element of a design that dominates or becomes the center of interest has emphasis. Within the visual components of a page design, emphasis is applied to individual parts such as a word or phrase by changing its appearance, making it stand out. Sometimes considered a principle of design on its own, emphasis can be created using all of the various elements and principles of design.
Emphasis and the Elements of Design
Create a focal point by making one element of the design more prominent or eye-catching than the others.
- Line. In a design composed of horizontal lines, the vertical line becomes the focal point.
- Shape. A square stands out from a group of circles or organic shapes.
- Mass. The physically or visually heavier element or piece commands more attention.
- Texture. Embossing adds tactile interest and emphasis.
- Color. A splash of color or a strong change in value in an otherwise gray piece will draw the eye.
Emphasis and the Principles of Design
Use the arrangement of the page components to create a focal point or visual hierarchy of dominant and subordinant elements.
- Balance. A perfectly symetrical piece may have no focal point because each element is equally emphasized. Radial balance generally draws the eye first to the central point in the design.
- Proximity. A part of the design that is isolated from other parts can become a focal point.
- Alignment. The eye is naturally drawn to a point in or near the center of a page, giving elements in that area perceived importance.
- Repetition. Repeating an image or a word can establish its importance.
- Contrast. Set words or phrases in a contrasting bold type or italics to give them emphasis.
- White space. Use white space to isolate elements and give them emphasis.