Designing Posters That Command Attention –
Are you a graphic designer searching for ways to create a poster that will capture the attention of your audience? Poster design has been plaguing artists since the invention of the printing press. Finding just the right mix of images, colors and words to deliver the message you are hoping to impart can be difficult. I guess that is one of the tricks of graphic design. There are a lot of tips out there regarding how to make the perfect poster. I am going to try to sort through them and see if I can find the ones that work the best. I will throw in a couple tips of my own that have helped me with poster design.
What Do You Want Them to See?
In order to make an attention getting poster, you have to know what you want your audience to see. Make sure that the most important piece of information is what pops out from your poster. Whether that means making it the biggest or the brightest part of your graphic design, just make sure it pops.
Keep It Simple
Don’t over design. Once you have decided what they need to see, don’t confuse the viewer with too much detail. Poster design can overwhelm the eye if there are too many details. Make your point using the fewest images and words possible. The nature of posters is that they are usually viewed by people as they pass by. I want a poster to grab my attention, and then speak to me quickly, as I walk on by.
Can I Read It?
Printing out your poster and hanging it on your wall can be pretty helpful. Even on a smaller scale you should be able to see everything clearly. Can you read it? Make sure you have chosen a font that is easily readable. There are a few typefaces that are fun to look at, and may be great on a card or an invitation, but are too busy for poster design.
Who Is Going To See It?
Remember to design for your audience. Primary colors and block letters are perfect for catching the attention of children. Black and white, with just a splash of color is a more dramatic way to attract the eye of adults. Think of your viewers, and plan your design accordingly.
Make It Fun
Have fun, be silly, and embrace nonsense. If at all possible, design your poster with a touch of the absurd in mind. Make unusual pairings, like a chicken eating Buffalo style wings. That sort of weirdness sticks in people’s minds. If you create a design that sticks in my mind then you have done your job.
Layout, Layout, Layout
I think layout may be one of the most important aspects of all graphic design. Choosing what to put on your poster is only part of the design process. Choosing where each aspect goes is equally important. Unusual placements can, sometimes, be more striking or eye-catching to your audience. You want to be clear and concise, but you don’t want your work to look like every other poster. Catch their eye and make your point.
It doesn’t matter what type of poster you are making or what advice you choose to follow. Use your own touch to create an excellent poster. The best part of advice is it is not required. You can choose what works for you and discard the rest. I look to other graphic designers’ work for inspiration. If their work has caught my eye, I look closely to figure out why. That inspiration may be the best advice I can get.