Tag Archive for: website design tips

Understanding the Elements of Typography

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Typography is  the art and technique of arranging to make any language readable and understandable when displayed on screen. It may appear simple… what’s the problem in choosing stylish fonts? We just have to go with the best looking one, right? Nope, it is not just about choosing the right font. There are a lot more things in typography than you think.

Typography is not just drawing and making art, but there are a bunch of terms related to typography. This article is focused on web design typography.  These frequently used typography terms will help you learn the basics.

THE KEY ELEMENTS OF TYPOGRAPHY

  • Typeface

    This refers to the font family. It is a set of fonts with different patterns and characteristics. Concrete examples of typefaces are: Arial Narrow, Baskerville Old Face, Garamond, Segoe Script, Tahoma, Comic Sans, and so on.

  • Font

    Font refers to a set characters with the same style and size. Contrary to popular belief, font is not the typeface. A correct example of font is 12-point Lucida Handwriting in bold or 23-point Bookman Old Style in italic.

    Generally, it is calculated in points (pt). Points dictate the height of the lettering. There are approximately 72 (72.272) points in one inch or 2.54 cm. An example would be the font size 72 would be about one inch tall, and 36 would be about a half of an inch. This would be the size, particularly the height element of typography.

  • Weight

    In typography, weight is defined as any particular styles used to make the characters appear heavier lighter. This affects the size element of typography.

    For example, if you want the text to be extra thin, you have the option to use the weight ‘thin 100’or if you want your text to appear bolder than usual, you may opt to apply the weight ‘extra bold 800’. It depends on how thick or thin you want your text to appear.

  • Kerning

    It is simply defined as the process of adjusting the spacing between characters of in a proportional font. This does not only improve legibility or readability, this is also to make it look more appealing and pleasing to look at. However, you do need a separate editing software to use this function.

  • Tracking

    Refers to the letter-spacing. It’s the degree of increase (or sometimes decrease) of space between letters to affect visual density in a line or in a series of text. This is not to be confused with kerning because kerning refers to is used to the density issues in reading texts.

  • Leading

    If tracking is all about letter-spacing, leading is about the line-spacing. It is the distance between two baselines of lines of type. Leading is so named because conventional print shops put strips of lead between lines of type to increase vertical space.

So, these terms are elements of typography. There are a lot of typography terms you will encounter in the future, but these terms will cover the basics. It will ensure your texts to be legible, readable, and appealing to your website visitors.

Tips When Starting Your Own Home Base Web Design Business

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Businesses can now easily create their own website through website builders. However, many still opt to hire a web design team not just to build but also manage the website. This means that the web design jobs will continue to be a growing trend.

You may ask yourself, “Do I have what it takes to be a web designer?” You need to be a bit of a computer geek and an  artist at the same time. The good thing about it is that web designers don’t need a specific training or certification as long as you have the skills.

These are the qualities will give you a huge advantage:

  • Number 1 is the eye for design. This includes both color and layout. Web design should be appealing and everything needs to be precise. You just don’t include it because it looks good. It should have a purpose.
  • Knowing the uses of colors and fonts will also help you in choosing the appropriate details for a particular website.
  • The skill to organize isn’t just helpful in real life. It will also greatly aid making navigation easier.
  • Be familiar with coding languages like Ruby, SQL, HTML/CSS, ASP. These can help in increasing marketability.

What are the advantages of starting a web design business?

  • Web design is very in demand.
  • This job can be done anywhere for as long as there is an internet access.
  • You can venture to other related services like content writing, copywriting, SEO, and so on.
  • Most importantly, this field pays well.

Of course, there are downsides to every business. In website design, these are the cons:

  • You need to stay on the loop regarding the latest on software and coding.
  • The constant change may encourage clients to create their own web design team.
  • Because it offers a hefty salary, the competition is tough.
  • Say goodbye to night outs because most of the time, it’s just you and your computer. Not an ideal job for social beings!

When starting your Web Design Business, it is implied that you already have the knowledge and experience.

You also need these things to kickstart your business:

  • Choose a part of your house where you can freely work.
  • A computer that is strictly for work and can handle heavy editing programs. You may also a good quality monitor, scanner, a camera and a printer.
  • Invest in editing softwares. These may cost you hundreds of dollars, but it can enhance photo and video quality.
  • A high speed internet connection is important. Uploading large photos and videos may take time if your connection is slow.
  • Have a business plan that includes your short-term and long-term goals.
  • Create a marketing plan that indicates ways to reach your target market.
  • Your own website that includes all your work.
  • You should also list of all your products and services.
  • Give details on your design process and how you work.
  • Material for marketing like brochures and business cards. You should include your official social  media accounts in your various print ads.
  • Connect with other people that may lead to more possible clients and referrals. You refer businesses to your clients and the businesses will in turn refer you their clients.

Getting your first client may be a real challenge for you. Use this time to expand your network. Interact with people by joining conventions or be active on social media. Post your work online and reach people from different parts of the globe. Constantly get your content out there and you will surely attract your market.