Emphasis

 The use of a focal point to stress certain elements or to give special attention to an element.  Gives the viewer’s eye direction.

Achieving Emphasis  Size variation  Color  Visual Weight  Density  Boldness  Shape  Placement

Contrast  Element of Design  Contrast is the difference between two or more elements  Can have a high contrast (black/white, huge/tiny)  Or low contrast (shades of gray, similar size)

High Contrast Large difference from one shade to the next – extreme would be black to white.

Low Contrast Subtle differences between shades.

High Contrast vs Low Contrast Using high and low contrast textures can direct attention.

Emphasis through Placement We already know that placing an element in the middle will draw attention.

Emphasis using Leading Lines You can be really obvious and using leading lines, or other objects, to point to where you want the viewer to look.

Emphasis using Size Variation There is a big difference between the large planet and the other, smaller ones. The viewer knows to look at the larger planet in the foreground first.

Emphasis using Size Variation The large square monopolized much of the composition, demanding attention.

Emphasis using Size Variation In this example, the emphasis is placed on the smaller square by contrasting it with the larger square.

Emphasis using Color Variation While most of the shapes are the same size, the sun is bright and a contrasting color to the rest of the image. The viewer knows to look there first.

Emphasis using Color and Size Many reasons to look where you do in this piece – size, color and contrast.