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Graphic Elements of Design

Color Theory and Image Formats

Lori Poole

Examining and exploring the various types of images and graphic elements will be the focus of this course. We will start with color theory to distinguish between CMYK, Pantone and RGB color options and their usages. Then we will review the various types of images used in both print and digital design projects. Finally we will look at logo designs to determine what makes for the best images and graphic elements for corporate branding and imaging.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Understanding Color Theory

This module will cover color theories, including CMYK, RGB, Pantone and hex colors.

Classifications of Images and Graphics

This module will review common image and graphic files, including the difference between raster and vector images.

Combining Images with Type

This module will cover how to convert image colors and ways to find images online. You will get to use skills learned in designing a color advertisement.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Covers basic color theory concepts, which is standard in the design field

Introduces key distinctions between different images used in design, which is essential for designers

Provides a practical exercise in image color conversion, a frequently used design skill

Guides learners in finding and selecting images, a necessary skill for designers

Taught by Lori Poole, an experienced designer, which ensures high-quality instruction

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Reviews summary

Well received color theory course

Learners say that this course provides them with a strong foundation of color theory and image formats. It is great for beginners and serves as a refresher course for those with some knowledge. The instructor is said to be effective and passionate, with one learner calling her the "best teacher ever"

Learners gain skills in graphic design and image editing

"I am glad that you were the teacher, this was my best learning experience ever, you explained every single thing about colors and formats, I really appreciate that."

"I have always enjoyed exploring howcolours work together to invoke different reactions."

"As always, really enjoy classes by Lori. She has a very interesting and informative way to make you understand what you need to know."

The course uses a variety of materials like videos, readings, and assignments to keep students engaged

"The course gives a nice overview of colors and image formats, what do they come from, how to use them etc. There are also live examples of using the graphic design programs."

"The way of teaching is very interesting which makes you forgot that your attending the online class."

"I have gained really good understanding and knowledge of colors through this course."

"The course help me understand the color theory and really make me aware of a lot of things graphic designers need to do in order to have a good piece."

"This course taught me how to professionally design items and it was a great journey knowing that with hard work , prayer and dedication all things are possible."

"This course was easy to understand and grasp the concept of color theory. I'm fortunate to learn the new things about image formats which I believe most people have ignored to know the reason behind Jpeg, PNG, BMP etc...it really surprised me to learn so many things in just 3 weeks.! Amazing Dr. Lori..you are just great..."

The course content is explained clearly, with helpful examples

"The course was easy to understand and grasp the concept of color theory."

"The speakers were good designers who shared their vision from beginning to end."

"I love how each subject are presented in a very simplified manner and how each course in this specialization complements one another."

The course is a good introduction for beginners to the world of graphic design and color theory

"I learned very basic concepts in a clear manner."

"This course is really good for beginners like me."

"The course gives a nice overview of colors and image formats, what do they come from, how to use them etc."

"This course provides a nice start for people who want to start their journey in the world of Graphic Designing."

"It´s short but with the essential information that someone without design knowledge need to start. Really useful."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Graphic Elements of Design: Color Theory and Image Formats with these activities:

Review Image Design Basics

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Refresh your knowledge of image design fundamentals to enhance your understanding of the course material.

Browse courses on Image Design

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Review the principles of color theory, including CMYK, RGB, and Pantone.
Familiarize yourself with different image formats, such as raster and vector.

Complete Image Analysis Exercises

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Reinforce your understanding of image concepts through practical exercises.

Browse courses on Image Analysis

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Find online resources or textbooks with image analysis exercises.
Complete the exercises regularly to improve your analytical skills.

Explore Online Tutorials on Image Optimization

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Enhance your understanding of image optimization techniques by seeking out online tutorials.

Browse courses on Image Optimization

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Search for online tutorials on image optimization for print and digital media.
Follow the tutorials and practice the techniques provided.

Three other activities

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Attend a Workshop on Logo Design

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Enhance your understanding of logo design principles and techniques through a hands-on workshop.

Browse courses on Logo Design

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Identify and register for a logo design workshop that fits your schedule.
Participate actively in the workshop and apply the concepts learned.

Read 'The Elements of Typographic Style' by Robert Bringhurst

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Gain insights into the role of typography in visual communication and its interplay with images.

Show steps

Read the book thoroughly, paying attention to the principles of typography.
Analyze the examples and case studies presented in the book.

Participate in a Design Competition

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Challenge yourself and showcase your skills by participating in a design competition.

Browse courses on Participation

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Research and find design competitions that align with your interests.
Submit your best work and receive feedback from industry professionals.

Career center

Learners who complete Graphic Elements of Design: Color Theory and Image Formats will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Graphic designer

Graphic Designers create visual content for a variety of purposes, including websites, brochures, logos, and social media posts. They work with clients to understand their needs and develop creative solutions that meet their goals. This course may be useful to Graphic Designers as it provides a foundation in color theory and image formats, which are essential for creating visually appealing and effective designs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Graphic designer

Web Designer

Web Designers create and maintain websites. They work with clients to understand their needs and develop websites that are both visually appealing and functional. This course may be useful to Web Designers as it provides a foundation in color theory and image formats, which are essential for creating visually appealing and effective websites.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Designer

Photographer

Photographers take pictures of people, places, and things. They work with clients to understand their needs and develop images that meet their goals. This course may be useful to Photographers as it provides a foundation in color theory and image formats, which are essential for creating visually appealing and effective photographs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Photographer

3D Animator

3D Animators create and animate 3D models. They work with clients to understand their needs and develop 3D animations that meet their goals. This course may be useful to 3D Animators as it provides a foundation in color theory and image formats, which are essential for creating visually appealing and effective 3D animations.

See salaries and explore the career path for 3D Animator

Videographer

Videographers create and edit videos. They work with clients to understand their needs and develop videos that meet their goals. This course may be useful to Videographers as it provides a foundation in color theory and image formats, which are essential for creating visually appealing and effective videos.

See salaries and explore the career path for Videographer

Art Director

Art Directors oversee the visual aspects of advertising and marketing campaigns. They work with copywriters, graphic designers, and other creative professionals to develop the overall look and feel of campaigns, including the selection of colors, images, and fonts. This course may be useful to Art Directors as it provides a foundation in color theory and image formats, which are essential for creating visually appealing and effective marketing materials.

See salaries and explore the career path for Art Director

Visual Effects Artist

Visual Effects Artists create and edit visual effects for film and television. They work with directors and other stakeholders to create visually appealing and realistic effects. This course may be useful to Visual Effects Artists as it provides a foundation in color theory and image formats, which are essential for creating visually appealing and effective visual effects.

See salaries and explore the career path for Visual Effects Artist

Motion Graphics Designer

Motion Graphics Designers create and edit motion graphics. They work with clients to understand their needs and develop motion graphics that meet their goals. This course may be useful to Motion Graphics Designers as it provides a foundation in color theory and image formats, which are essential for creating visually appealing and effective motion graphics.

See salaries and explore the career path for Motion Graphics Designer

User Experience Designer (UX Designer)

UX Designers focus on the user experience of websites and applications. They work to ensure that websites and applications are easy to use and navigate. This course may be useful to UX Designers as it provides a foundation in color theory and image formats, which are essential for creating visually appealing and effective user interfaces.

See salaries and explore the career path for User Experience Designer (UX Designer)

Creative Director

Creative Directors work with art directors, copywriters, and graphic designers to develop the overall vision for advertising and marketing campaigns. They may also lead teams of designers in creating visual content for websites, brochures, and other marketing materials. This course may be useful to Creative Directors as it provides a foundation in color theory and image formats, which are essential for creating visually appealing and effective marketing materials.

See salaries and explore the career path for Creative Director

Interior designer

Interior Designers create and develop interior spaces. They work with clients to understand their needs and develop designs that meet their goals. This course may be useful to Interior Designers as it provides a foundation in color theory and image formats, which are essential for creating visually appealing and effective interior spaces.

See salaries and explore the career path for Interior designer

Industrial Designer

Industrial Designers create and develop new products. They work with engineers and other stakeholders to bring new products to market. This course may be useful to Industrial Designers as it provides a foundation in color theory and image formats, which are essential for creating visually appealing and effective products.

See salaries and explore the career path for Industrial Designer

Product Designer

Product Designers create and develop new products. They work with engineers and other stakeholders to bring new products to market. This course may be useful to Product Designers as it provides a foundation in color theory and image formats, which are essential for creating visually appealing and effective products.

See salaries and explore the career path for Product Designer

Fashion Designer

Fashion Designers create and develop new clothing and accessories. They work with clients to understand their needs and develop designs that meet their goals. This course may be useful to Fashion Designers as it provides a foundation in color theory and image formats, which are essential for creating visually appealing and effective designs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Fashion Designer

Landscape Architect

Landscape Architects create and develop outdoor spaces. They work with clients to understand their needs and develop designs that meet their goals. This course may be useful to Landscape Architects as it provides a foundation in color theory and image formats, which are essential for creating visually appealing and effective outdoor spaces.

See salaries and explore the career path for Landscape Architect

Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Graphic Elements of Design: Color Theory and Image Formats.

Graphic Design: The New Basics

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Adds depth to the course as it focuses on the basic principles of graphic design. It is commonly used as a textbook in academic institutions.

Graphic Elements of Design

Color Theory and Image Formats

What's inside

Syllabus

Good to know

Save this course

Reviews summary

Well received color theory course

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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