The principles of design are a set of visual concepts that designers use to make aesthetically pleasing and functional work. These principles are often interrelated, complementing and influencing each other. This is why you should read our other posts to understand more about other composition elements.
Today, we will focus on two very important elements of composition: balance and alignment.
Two dimensional visual designs have both a horizontal and vertical axis. Each element in a design adds visual weight and thus, a successful composition requires balance. Alignment refers to the placement of elements along the axes and is used to create balance.
Balance can be achieved both symmetrically and asymmetrically. Symmetrical balance requires that weight be applied equally across axes. Asymmetrical balance uses mismatched placements that have equal visual weight. As an example, a title on a poster flushed left may require an image to appear on the right side to create asymmetrical balance.
It might be helpful to consider a two-dimensional design in a three-dimensional form, on a flat form like a plate or canvas. Elements that are out of balance due to their visual weight will lead the composition to tip.
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