The Secret to Better Graphic Design: The Rule of Thirds

The rule of thirds is one of the most basic and essential principles of design. This technique can help with many aspects of graphic design, like layout, color, and composition. It makes for a more balanced and appealing piece. In this article, we will explore how the rule of thirds can be used to create a stronger brand identity.

What is the rule of thirds?

The rule of thirds is a simple design principle that can have a big impact on the overall look and feel of an image. The principle suggests dividing an image into thirds, both vertically and horizontally, so that there are nine equal parts. The four points where the lines intersect are considered ideal placement for important elements in the image.

The rule of thirds is often used in photography, but can also be applied to other forms of design, such as graphic design, web design, and even architecture. When used correctly, the rule of thirds can help create a more balanced and visually appealing composition. In this article, we will explore how the rule of thirds can be used to create a stronger brand identity.

When deciding on a layout for your next project, consider using the rule of thirds to achieve a more balanced and visually appealing composition.

How can the rule of thirds be applied to graphic design?

The rule of thirds can be applied to graphic design in a few different ways to create a more balanced and visually appealing composition. One way is by using the rule of thirds when creating the layout of a design. This means that important elements should be placed along the vertical and horizontal lines or at the intersections of those lines. Another way the rule of thirds can be applied to graphic design is by using it to choose a color scheme. This can be done by picking three colors that are equally spaced out on the color wheel. By using the rule of thirds, you can create a more balanced and visually appealing graphic design.

Examples of well-known brands that use the rule of thirds

Coca-Cola

Coca-Cola is a great example of a brand that uses the rule of thirds in its design. The iconic red and white color scheme is divided into three equal parts, with the red occupying the top two-thirds of the can and the white occupying the bottom third. This simple but effective use of color creates a strong visual identity for the brand.

Nike

Nike is another well-known brand that uses the rule of thirds in its design. The Nike swoosh logo is divided into three parts, with two curved lines forming the outer edges and a central line connecting them. This simple but effective use of shape helps to create a strong and instantly recognizable brand identity.

Apple

Apple is another company that uses the rule of thirds in its design. The company's logo is divided into three parts, with the iconic bitten apple occupying the top two-thirds and the word 'apple' occupying the bottom third. This simple but effective use of space helps to create a strong and easily recognizable brand identity.

Audi

Audi is another well-known brand that uses the rule of thirds in its design. The company's logo is divided into three parts, with two interlocking rings occupying the top two-thirds and the word 'Audi' occupying the bottom third. This simple but effective use of space helps to create a strong and easily recognizable brand identity.

BMW

BMW is another company that uses the rule of thirds in its design. The company's logo is divided into three parts, with a central circle occupying the top two-thirds and the letters 'bmw' occupying the bottom third. This simple but effective use of space helps to create a strong and easily recognizable brand identity.

How to use the rule of thirds to create a stronger brand identity

The rule of thirds is a classic design principle that suggests dividing an image into thirds, both vertically and horizontally. This simple technique can be applied to many different aspects of design, from layout to color scheme, and can help create a more balanced and visually appealing composition. In this article, we will explore how the rule of thirds can be used to create a stronger brand identity.

When applied to branding, the rule of thirds can help create a more cohesive and visually appealing brand identity. The rule of thirds can also be used to create a more balanced and harmonious composition, which is often more aesthetically pleasing to viewers. When used correctly, the rule of thirds can add a sense of dynamism and energy to your brand's visuals, making them more eye-catching and memorable.

There are many ways that you can use the rule of thirds to strengthen your brand identity. One way is to align your logo with the rule of thirds. This means placing your logo at one of the intersections or along one of the lines created by dividing the space into thirds. Another way to use the rule of thirds in branding is by choosing a color palette that adheres to the principle. You can do this by selecting three colors that are evenly spaced out on the color wheel. Finally, you can use the rule of thirds when designing other key elements of your brand identity, such as your website layout or business cards.

By following the tips above, you can use the rule of thirds to create a stronger brand identity that is more cohesive and visually appealing. When used correctly, this simple design principle can have a big impact on your branding strategy.

The rule of thirds in action: a case study

When used correctly, the rule of thirds can help create a more cohesive and visually appealing brand identity. A great example of this is Coca-Cola. As one of the most popular and well-recognized brands in the world, Coca-Cola has to be very careful with its branding. Any small change could result in a loss of sales, so everything must be carefully considered.

When designing their logo, Coca-Cola took the time to align it with the rule of thirds. The iconic red disk is placed slightly off-center, with the white nameplate sitting above it. This creates a sense of balance and allows the viewer's eye to naturally rest on the most important elements in the design.

Coca-Cola isn't the only company that uses the rule of thirds in its branding. Nike, Apple, Audi, and BMW are just a few of the other well-known brands that have used this simple technique to create a stronger brand identity.

So what makes the rule of thirds so effective? One reason is that it helps draw the viewer's attention to the most important elements in the design. In a busy world where we are bombarded with images and messages from all sides, it is essential that your brand stands out from the crowd. The rule of thirds can help you do this by making sure that your key message is placed in a position where it will be seen first.

Another reason the rule of thirds is so effective is that it creates a more balanced and visually appealing composition. When everything in a design is symmetrical or evenly spaced, it can look sterile and uninteresting. However, when you use the rule of thirds to offset elements within a design, it suddenly becomes more eye-catching and dynamic.

If you want to create a stronger brand identity, then consider using the rule of thirds as part of your design strategy. This simple technique can make a big difference in how your brand is perceived by both current and potential customers.