Thanks to modern creative tools like Studio, the world of digital design is more accessible than ever. However, entering this realm can be daunting without a solid understanding of the principal concepts and terminology.
This glossary is the key to understanding online design tools. From comprehending aspect ratios and image sizes to mastering color palettes and typography, this guide will empower readers with the knowledge to use an online design tool Studio, with confidence.
Aspect Ratio and Image Size
Aspect Ratio and Image Size are two distinct digital design and photography concepts. Understanding their differences is crucial for creating visually appealing and adequately formatted images for various platforms and media.
Aspect ratio
The aspect ratio is the proportion between the width and height of an image, usually expressed as two numbers divided by a colon (e.g., 16:9, 4:3, 1:1). The aspect ratio is estimated by dividing the image’s width by the height (width: height). Maintaining the correct aspect ratio ensures that an image retains its intended composition and proportions, regardless of size. Different platforms and media often require specific aspect ratios to display images correctly without cropping or distortion. For example, a 16:9 aspect ratio is standard for widescreen videos, while a 1:1 aspect ratio is standard for Instagram posts.
Image size
Image size refers to an image’s dimensions in pixels (width x height). For example, an image might be 1920 pixels wide and 1080 pixels tall. Image size is calculated by multiplying the width by the height in pixels. Higher image sizes generally mean higher resolution, which results in more detail and clarity, which is especially important for printing and high-quality displays.
Studio makes the choice of file size and ratio a no-brainer. Choose the platform you are creating for, and Studio will take care of the rest.
Pixels and resolution
Pixel is another term closely connected with image size. A pixel is the smallest unit of a digital image or graphic.
Resolution is the amount of detail in an image, measured in pixels per inch (PPI). High resolution is crucial for producing clear and detailed images, especially for print.
In Studio, you can choose the size and resolution of your design, so you get the best-quality images right from the beginning.
Crop
Cropping is the process of removing unwanted outer areas from an image or design. Cropping allows designers to focus on the essential parts of an image, improving composition and eliminating distractions.
Colors
Background
The background is the part of a design that serves as the backdrop for other elements, which can be a solid color, gradient, image, or pattern. A well-chosen background enhances the overall aesthetic and readability of the design, providing context and setting the tone.
There are hundreds of various backgrounds available in Studio, from solid colors to colorful frames, from cinematic backgrounds to gradients and pastels. Also, one can choose to remove the background if the design requires it.
Color codes
RGB stands for red, green, and blue. This color model is used for digital screens. CMYK stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Key (Black). This color model is used in printing. HEX color codes are the standard for web designs. Color code converters translate color codes from one standard to another.
Studio’s color picker allows you to choose a color visually or to input a precise HEX color code from your color palette.
Color Pallet
A color palette is a selection of colors used in a design. A cohesive color palette ensures the design is visually harmonious and conveys the intended mood or message effectively.
Gradient
A gradient is a gradual change between colors, often used as a background or to add depth to a design. Gradients add visual interest and dimension to a design, making it more dynamic and engaging.
Fonts and typography
Font
A font is a set of characters with a specific design and size used in typography. Choosing the right font is critical for readability and conveying the appropriate tone and personality of the design.
Typography
Typography is the art and method of arranging type to make written language readable and visually appealing. Good typography enhances readability, communicates the right tone, and improves a design’s overall aesthetics.
To speed up the design process, Studio offers premade font sets for the designs. Besides that, design templates come with typography layouts that are legible and harmoniously matched.
Design assets
Mockup
A mockup is a model of a design used to demonstrate and evaluate its look and feel.
Crafters and designers find the mockup files from the Creative Fabrica library very useful as they allow them to showcase print-on-demand products and other made-to-order objects without creating them.
Stock Photo
A stock photo is a premade image available for licensing to use in various designs. Stock photos in the Studio provide high-quality visuals without custom photography, saving time and resources. Also, designers can create with their favorite assets from Creative Fabrica. And the best part?- everything created in Studio can be used personally or commercially.
Template
A template is a pre-designed layout that can be customized for various projects. Templates streamline the design process, providing a starting point and ensuring consistency across similar projects.
Studio offers thousands of free templates, graphics, and more for creating everything from unique birthday cards to trendy T-shirts.
Vector
A vector is an image created with paths or lines defined by mathematical equations. It can be scaled without losing quality. Vector graphics are essential for creating sharp and scalable designs, such as logos and illustrations, that maintain quality at any size.
Vectorizer, the tool inside Studio, will help you vectorize any raster image, such as a PNG or JPG image, and turn it into a vectorized image that you can download as an SVG.
Design fundamentals
Alignment
Alignment refers to arranging elements in a design to create a visually pleasing layout. It can be horizontal, vertical, or centered. Proper alignment ensures the design is tidy and professional, making it easier for viewers to understand and navigate the content.
Scale
Scale refers to the size of an element in a design. Proper scaling ensures that elements are proportionate and harmonious, maintaining visual balance and focus.
Grid
A grid is a structure composing a series of intersecting straight lines used to arrange content in a design. Grids help create balanced and organized layouts, making it easier to align elements and maintain consistency.
Studio’s grid and Ruler tools help designers maintain constant margins—the space around the edges of a page. Margins ensure content is not cut off during printing and provide a buffer zone for readability and aesthetics.
Grid tools are also essential when the designer wants to follow the Rule of Thirds. The rule of thirds is a design principle that divides an image into nine equal parts to guide composition. Applying the rule of thirds helps create balanced and aesthetically pleasing compositions, enhancing visual interest.
Layers
Layers are different levels at which you can place design elements on top of each other.
Easily accessible and manageable layers in Studio facilitate the manipulation and organization of elements, making complex designs more manageable.
Bringing It All Together
Understanding the fundamental terms and concepts of online design is the first step toward mastering digital creativity. Creative Fabrica Studio is a powerful tool that simplifies and enhances the entire design process. By leveraging the features and resources available, one can ensure their projects are visually appealing and perfectly tailored for their intended platforms.