Script Garage
How do I choose a font that will go with a graphic I make?
I have a problem when I make a graphic. I make excellent graphics but the problem with my graphics that when i show them to people they tell me the font isn't right for the graphic. So, how do I choose a font for the graphics i make?
Public Comments
- I love fonts! I actually have to limit myself on my font downloads so as not to overload my puter. But when creating something like a graphic and using a font you just need to use your "eye". What do you see? Is the font oo fancy? too chunky? Too big, too plain? Try different fonts with the same graphic using the creative eye which allows you to make the graphics. Obviously you have an artistic eye of some sort if you are creating graphics. Other than that it's difficult to explain to someone what to look for, you kind of just have to have a feel for it.
- Study the history and evolution of typefaces. One excellent book is The Elements of Typographic Style by Robert Bringhurst. Also study successful examples of graphic design and you'll begin to get a feel for what works. Each typeface has a unique personality.
- Think about your graphics. If it's a silver BMW, would font that looks like graffiti look appropriate for an ad? No, the lines in the letters would probably be thin lined, smooth, thin loops, maybe like on an engraved invitation. Would this be OK for a scary movie ad? They usually have jagged lines, or maybe look like it's from the middle ages. Go through different fonts, look at thickness and smoothness of line. What period of history does it make you think of? What kinds of things does it make you think of? I believe there actually are colleges classes on this.
