Can you think of a time you were emotionally moved by a photo or when you saw something that caused you to pause? Photography is hugely influential in graphic design and can be the very basis of every other design decision. What makes a powerful photo? Perhaps it’s an expression, an uncommon perspective or natural beauty. No matter the medium – poster, pamphlet, magazine spread or book cover – a captivating photo communicates in ways that words alone cannot. Below are a few examples of photos used in pieces I have collected.
Photo by Carlo Jimenez
Photo by Loes Heerink
Cover design by Fritz Metsch
The museum map draws in visitors with a very detailed photo, compelling them to find the location where this art can be experienced in person. The photographer captured the image looking up, which encourages the museum-goer to do the same. Its detail is mesmerizing.
The Conde Nast magazine cover is brilliant to me and illustrates a unique perspective. This image is captured by rising up above street level in order to catch a bird’s eye view. The flowers for sale appear as one large bouquet and the viewer gets a unique glimpse of this woman’s pattern of life.
People are the most intriguing figures in images – we’re drawn to our own likeness and have a keen sense of emotive facial expressions. This image of Julie Andrews on the cover of Home conveys a warmth and sense of contented reflection, which marries well with the work’s title.
Notice that in each of these examples, text is not overpowering. This is not to say text cannot be the star of the show in graphic design pieces. It certainly can. It comes down to the best content for the context when determining which elements to feature.
All industries are filled with design directed by powerful imagery. How can I help you incorporate it in your design? Contact me to chat about how. If you need some new photography to incorporate in your marketing pieces, I will partner with a local professional to help deliver what you need.