Introduction to Typography

What is Typography?

In the previous classes we have focused on basic graphic design concepts and an introduction to Illustration. This week we'll develop our knowledge of Typography; possibly the most important, yet most overlooked element of graphic design.

Typography is the technique of arranging type for any purpose. A designer needs to know far more about type than simply creating designs that are legible and can easily be read. Designers need to understand the rules and traditions of typography in order to be able to communicate effectively.

Don’t Forget: We usually only use type because what we’re trying to convey is too difficult to bring across visually, so it’s important to use text sparingly unless it's being used as a design element.

Understanding Fonts

There are two basic types of fonts; serif and sans serif. There are many many subcategories, but knowing the difference between these two is a good place to start.

Serif vs. Sans-serif

Serifs are semi-structural details, or small decorative flourishes on the ends of some of the strokes that make up letters and symbols. An example would be the Times New Roman font.

‘Sans’ means ‘without’ in french, so sans serif literally means ‘without serif’.

To understand more about some of the aspects of the anatomy of typography read this excellent article by : http://www.designersinsights.com/designer-resources/anatomy-of-typography

A typography glossary of terms: http://www.typographydeconstructed.com/category/anatomy-of-type/

Classifying different types of fonts: http://www.fonts.com/content/learning/fontology/level-1/type-anatomy/type-classifications