Typography

Of all the aspects of graphic design, typography is possibly the hardest to master and the easiest to fail at.

In traditional typography, text is arranged in such a way that it creates a logical and visually satisfying whole and by using simple curves and lines can express feelings, emotions and thoughts. With the advancement of new technology, which has revolutionised type composition, more people have been able to venture into typography, but even so, it has remained very much a niche discipline.

I prefer to classify typography as the art and technique of arranging moveable type by spacing legible words using a variety of fonts, point sizes, leading and kerning. Typography could also be considered as type design, which is the art of designing new typefaces. It is important to note that most typographers do not design typefaces and many type designers do not necessarily consider themselves as typographers.

Specialised typographers focus on the design and layout of words, which can be seen in books, newspapers, magazines, posters and even on stamps. Typographers will consider negative space, boldness and colour and will sometimes even add images to their designs. The ultimate purpose of typography is to clearly communicate written information to a reader by following strict terminology and rules. This is certainly is not for the impatient designer and those who choose typography as a career, must show patience, understanding and love for lettering.

So if typography is not for you, have you thought about advertising, illustration or logo design? Or what about… Next up –

Aspects of Graphic Design: Packaging