{"id":60714,"date":"2022-08-18T13:07:00","date_gmt":"2022-08-18T17:07:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/?p=60714"},"modified":"2026-03-12T07:02:04","modified_gmt":"2026-03-12T11:02:04","slug":"design-principle-contrast","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/design-principle-contrast\/","title":{"rendered":"A Brief Guide to Contrast &#8211; A Design Principle"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"3200\" height=\"1800\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/A-Brief-Guide-to-Contrast-\u2013-A-Design-Principle.png\" alt=\"design principle contrast\" class=\"wp-image-60727\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/A-Brief-Guide-to-Contrast-\u2013-A-Design-Principle.png 3200w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/A-Brief-Guide-to-Contrast-\u2013-A-Design-Principle-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/A-Brief-Guide-to-Contrast-\u2013-A-Design-Principle-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/A-Brief-Guide-to-Contrast-\u2013-A-Design-Principle-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/A-Brief-Guide-to-Contrast-\u2013-A-Design-Principle-1536x864.png 1536w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/A-Brief-Guide-to-Contrast-\u2013-A-Design-Principle-2048x1152.png 2048w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/A-Brief-Guide-to-Contrast-\u2013-A-Design-Principle-730x411.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Light and dark. Big and small. Warm and cool.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/design-principles\/\"><u>design principle<\/u><\/a>, contrast is all about using opposites to capture your audience\u2019s attention and draw the eye to key parts of your message.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When creating business communications, these benefits are especially handy. After all, getting your audience\u2019s attention is half the battle. The other half? Keeping their attention and conveying your message.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A basic understanding of contrast can help you accomplish both. And I mean basic&#8230; <a href=\"https:\/\/research.com\/degrees\/best-online-graphic-design-degree-programs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">you don\u2019t need a degree in graphic design<\/a> to apply contrast to your communications. In fact, this brief guide is all you need to start captivating your audience with this principle. So let\u2019s get started!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>START CREATING FOR FREE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"toc\"><strong>Click to jump ahead:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#what\">What is the design principle contrast?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#why\">Why is contrast effective in graphic design?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#how\">How is contrast applied in graphic design?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#tips\">5 tips to create contrast in your designs<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#FAQ\">FAQ on creating contrast in design<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what\">What is the design principle contrast?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The design principle contrast refers to the use of visually different elements. In addition to capturing attention, contrast can guide the viewer\u2019s eye to a focal point, highlight important information and add <a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/design-principle-variety\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">variety<\/a>, or even drama, to a design.&nbsp;Paired with other principles like <a href=\"http:\/\/Just so you know, some of our templates are free to use and some require a small monthly fee. Sign up is always free, as is access to Venngage\u2019s online drag-and-drop editor.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">proximity<\/a>, it can really drive a design&#8217;s message home. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In theory, applying contrast is simple. All you need to do is use opposite or different elements: color, size, shape, texture, value\u2026 you can play with any of these visual elements to achieve contrast.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But in practice, it\u2019s a little trickier. Knowing <em>when<\/em> to use contrast and <em>which<\/em> elements to oppose isn\u2019t always obvious. That\u2019s where this guide comes in. I\u2019ll cover the different ways to use contrast in your designs a little later on, so stay tuned.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For now, let\u2019s wet our feet with a few quick examples&#8230;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Notice how the following <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\"><u>infographic template<\/u><\/a> uses contrasting colors to highlight the comparison between management and leadership skills. This is a simple example of using contrast to make a message clear:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/management-and-leadership-skills-infographic-f7d7ce84-8120-4557-a344-02081dabee1a\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/ManagementandLeadershipSkillsInfographic-1-791x1024.png\" alt=\"Design principle contrast example - Skills infographic\" class=\"wp-image-60790\" width=\"700\" style=\"box-shadow: 0 1px 4px 0 rgb(0 0 0 \/ 10%), 0 0 6px 0 rgb(0 0 0 \/ 10%), 0 2px 2px -2px rgb(0 0 0 \/ 15%);\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/ManagementandLeadershipSkillsInfographic-1-791x1024.png 791w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/ManagementandLeadershipSkillsInfographic-1-232x300.png 232w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/ManagementandLeadershipSkillsInfographic-1-768x994.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/ManagementandLeadershipSkillsInfographic-1-730x945.png 730w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/ManagementandLeadershipSkillsInfographic-1.png 816w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 791px) 100vw, 791px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/management-and-leadership-skills-infographic-f7d7ce84-8120-4557-a344-02081dabee1a\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>CREATE THIS INFOGRAPHIC TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<p>Paired with a wealth of <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/white-space-design\/\"><u>white space<\/u><\/a> (the breathing room around visual elements \u2014&nbsp;also called <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/negative-space\/\"><u>negative space<\/u><\/a>) and proper <a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/design-principle-alignment\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">alignment<\/a>, the bold colors in this design contrast and draw the eye right to the heart of the content.&nbsp;At the same time, <a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/design-principle-repetition\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">repetition<\/a> of the text treatments and shapes ensure the design still feels cohesive. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are several other instances of contrast in this example, too. Can you spot them?&nbsp;The black text contrasts with the white background, and the bolded headings contrast with the lighter descriptions. Most of us use these types of contrast every day without even thinking about it.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>All this to say, you can use contrast in more than one way in a design. Just remember, there\u2019s such a thing as overdoing it with contrast. Like with anything in life (and design!), finding a <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/design-principle-balance\/\"><u>balance<\/u><\/a> is key. Otherwise, you might overwhelm your readers or dilute your message. Remember, your goal should always be to create a <a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/design-principle-contrast\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">unified design<\/a> design that gets your message across. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A quick rule of thumb is to use contrast to highlight key takeaways. Here\u2019s a fun example from our viral <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/game-of-thrones-infographic\/\"><u>Game of Thrones article<\/u><\/a> \u2014 this template uses bold contrasting colors for the bar graphs, but sticks to a simple design otherwise. This ensures the data stands out:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/game-of-thrones-both-sides-of-betrayals-8c52327b-6e50-42d8-9925-4f5a4883cf1e\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Game-of-Thrones-Both-Sides-of-Betrayals-Template.png\" alt=\"design principle contrast\" class=\"wp-image-60718\" width=\"700\" style=\"box-shadow: 0 1px 4px 0 rgb(0 0 0 \/ 10%), 0 0 6px 0 rgb(0 0 0 \/ 10%), 0 2px 2px -2px rgb(0 0 0 \/ 15%);\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Game-of-Thrones-Both-Sides-of-Betrayals-Template.png 816w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Game-of-Thrones-Both-Sides-of-Betrayals-Template-232x300.png 232w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Game-of-Thrones-Both-Sides-of-Betrayals-Template-791x1024.png 791w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Game-of-Thrones-Both-Sides-of-Betrayals-Template-768x994.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Game-of-Thrones-Both-Sides-of-Betrayals-Template-730x945.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 816px) 100vw, 816px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/game-of-thrones-both-sides-of-betrayals-8c52327b-6e50-42d8-9925-4f5a4883cf1e\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>CREATE THIS INFOGRAPHIC TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<p>But don\u2019t be deceived by all these colorful examples. You can create contrast just as effectively with other elements, like size, shape, texture and more.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Take a look at the contrasting shapes in the following template. With a little help from arrows in contrasting colors, the triangles and circles draw the eye throughout the design:<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/6-lessons--c00e5eac-678a-4d2b-8aa1-f2fa0bfcc58e\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Comparison-Infographic.png\" alt=\"design principle contrast\" class=\"wp-image-60719\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Comparison-Infographic.png 816w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Comparison-Infographic-55x300.png 55w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Comparison-Infographic-768x4198.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Comparison-Infographic-281x1536.png 281w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Comparison-Infographic-730x3990.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 816px) 100vw, 816px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/6-lessons--c00e5eac-678a-4d2b-8aa1-f2fa0bfcc58e\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>CREATE THIS INFOGRAPHIC TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<p><em>Just so you know, some of our templates are free to use and some require a small monthly fee. <\/em><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/infograph.venngage.com\/register\"><em><u>Sign up<\/u><\/em><\/a><em> is always free, as is access to Venngage\u2019s online drag-and-drop editor.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"#toc\">Return to Table of Contents<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"why\"><strong>Why is contrast effective in graphic design?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Simply put, contrast helps you get the message of your design across. It draws the eye to the most important visual element in a design \u2014&nbsp;making it clear what readers should pay attention to first and foremost.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What\u2019s more, contrast makes for a visually appealing design. After all, if everything was matchy matchy, a design would be monotonous and boring. But sprinkle in some contrast, and you\u2019re much more likely to engage and delight your audience.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s an example of a template that uses contrast in several different ways. For starters, the red icons stand out against the white backgrounds. The size contrast of the circles draws the eye to the big ones first. And the dates alternate between a blue and white background creating a sense of movement:<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/lost-in-time-6f7edeb0-873f-497b-a9ef-a7c9172f2446\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"700\" height=\"541\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Illustrated-Horizontal-Timeline.png\" alt=\"design principle contrast\" class=\"wp-image-60720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Illustrated-Horizontal-Timeline.png 700w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Illustrated-Horizontal-Timeline-300x232.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/lost-in-time-6f7edeb0-873f-497b-a9ef-a7c9172f2446\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>CREATE THIS INFOGRAPHIC TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"#toc\">Return to Table of Contents<\/a><\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how\"><strong>How is contrast applied in graphic design?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In many ways! As we\u2019ve seen, you can add contrast with color, shapes and size. But there are even more techniques to be aware of\u2026&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s take a look at all five ways to apply contrast to your designs:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Contrasting color<\/strong>s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When you think of contrast, you probably think of color. So it should come as no surprise that color is one of the most common ways to use contrast in design. An easy trick is to use two colors that are opposites on the color wheel.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Or, you can choose colors that aren\u2019t necessarily opposites \u2014 like blue and purple \u2014 but that are bold enough to stand out against each other:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/resumes\/colorful-resume-9afcb616-978c-437c-9bae-3c210fdd61f9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/resumetemplate-1-791x1024.png\" alt=\"Design principle contrast example - blue and purple resume\" class=\"wp-image-60791\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/resumetemplate-1-791x1024.png 791w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/resumetemplate-1-232x300.png 232w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/resumetemplate-1-768x994.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/resumetemplate-1-730x945.png 730w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/resumetemplate-1.png 816w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 791px) 100vw, 791px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/resumes\/colorful-resume-9afcb616-978c-437c-9bae-3c210fdd61f9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>CREATE THIS RESUME TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<p>To make your design accessible, there&#8217;s a contrast ratio between text and background color you should aim for. Check out blog to learn more: <a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/graphic-design-tips\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">11 Actionable Graphic Design Tips for Beginners, According to Design Experts<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Contrasting shapes<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Squares, triangles, circles, diamonds. There are many shapes you can mix and match to create some contrast. You can also consider contrasting geometric shapes with organic shapes that draw inspiration from nature. Organic shapes are irregular and unpredictable, while geometric shapes have precise edges and consistent curves.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s an example of a template that uses contrasting geometric shapes to direct the reader\u2019s eye through the design:&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/graphic-design-trends-2020-3898601a-566f-45f9-bc44-fb45e98b3263\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Graphic-Design-Trends-2021-Infographic-Template.png\" alt=\"design principle contrast\" class=\"wp-image-60721\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Graphic-Design-Trends-2021-Infographic-Template.png 816w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Graphic-Design-Trends-2021-Infographic-Template-163x1024.png 163w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Graphic-Design-Trends-2021-Infographic-Template-768x4831.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Graphic-Design-Trends-2021-Infographic-Template-244x1536.png 244w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Graphic-Design-Trends-2021-Infographic-Template-730x4592.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 816px) 100vw, 816px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/graphic-design-trends-2020-3898601a-566f-45f9-bc44-fb45e98b3263\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>CREATE THIS INFOGRAPHIC TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">C<strong>ontrasting sizes<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Size is another classic way to create some contrast. By opposing large and small shapes, illustrations, text and more, you can add real drama to your designs. Size also ties in closely with <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/visual-hierarchy\/\"><u>visual hierarchy<\/u><\/a> \u2014 generally, the size or scale of elements in a composition demonstrates their relative importance.<br><br>Fun fact: the creators of the original Star Wars trilogy were masters at creating drama with contrast:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/7-design-principles-star-wars-taught-us-infographic\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/contrast1.png\" alt=\"Design principle contrast example - Star Wars scene\" class=\"wp-image-60792\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/contrast1.png 780w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/contrast1-300x128.png 300w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/contrast1-768x328.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/contrast1-730x312.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 780px) 100vw, 780px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">C<strong>ontrasting textures<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Designs may not have physical texture, but they do have visual texture. That is, texture in design refers to the way a surface is <em>perceived <\/em>to feel. (And visual senses can be just as acute as physical ones!) There are many different ways to evoke texture in design, like using natural photography, geometric patterns or even <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/simple-backgrounds\/\"><u>simple backgrounds<\/u><\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To create contrast with texture, simply pair it with a non-textured element, like a smooth surface. Or, combine different textures, like pairing a pattern with photography:<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/posters\/a4-workplace-stress-management-event-poster-3d20dbce-d050-434d-8b20-2ef69bd39a5c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Postercontrastexample-725x1024.png\" alt=\"Design principle contrast example - workplace stress poster\" class=\"wp-image-60794\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Postercontrastexample-725x1024.png 725w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Postercontrastexample-212x300.png 212w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Postercontrastexample-768x1085.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Postercontrastexample-730x1032.png 730w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Postercontrastexample.png 794w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 725px) 100vw, 725px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/posters\/a4-workplace-stress-management-event-poster-3d20dbce-d050-434d-8b20-2ef69bd39a5c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>CREATE THIS POSTER TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Contrasting values<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In design, elements can also have different values (sometimes called tones). Simply put, value refers to how light or dark an element appears. The higher the value, the lighter the design \u2014 and vice versa. It follows that you can add contrast by using high and low values within one design.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s an example of a design that uses a progression of values, from low to high:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/crowdfunding-d47c8a3a-13b9-44ed-91e1-6e8c58d5b263\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"700\" height=\"541\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Sponsorship-Program-Informational-Infographic.png\" alt=\"design principle contrast\" class=\"wp-image-60723\" style=\"box-shadow: 0 1px 4px 0 rgb(0 0 0 \/ 10%), 0 0 6px 0 rgb(0 0 0 \/ 10%), 0 2px 2px -2px rgb(0 0 0 \/ 15%);\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Sponsorship-Program-Informational-Infographic.png 700w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Sponsorship-Program-Informational-Infographic-300x232.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/crowdfunding-d47c8a3a-13b9-44ed-91e1-6e8c58d5b263\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>CREATE THIS INFOGRAPHIC TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"#toc\">Return to Table of Contents<\/a><\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tips\">5 tips to create contrast in your designs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Now that you\u2019re familiar with the different ways to apply contrast, let\u2019s talk tips.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are some quick ways to get a handle on contrast (and improve all your <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/visual-communication\/\"><u>visual communications<\/u><\/a>!):&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Familiarize yourself with the color wheel<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Since color is the easiest way to create contrast, it pays to have a peek at the color wheel. After all, unless you\u2019re a designer, you probably haven\u2019t thought about the relationship between primary, secondary and tertiary colors since grade school.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But with a color wheel to reference, these relationships are easy to understand. And you can literally <a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/how-to-pick-colors\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><u>pick colors<\/u><\/a> on opposite sides of the wheel to add contrast. Or, choose adjacent <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cartoonize.net\/opposite-yellow-complementary-colors\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">complementary colors<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this neat example, the designer used a literal color wheel to present data:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/world-population-infographic-17f9648f-3af9-4dbb-93de-bf26a0e82936\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/World-Population-Infographic-Template.png\" alt=\"design principle contrast\" class=\"wp-image-60725\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/World-Population-Infographic-Template.png 1400w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/World-Population-Infographic-Template-300x240.png 300w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/World-Population-Infographic-Template-1024x821.png 1024w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/World-Population-Infographic-Template-768x615.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/World-Population-Infographic-Template-730x585.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/world-population-infographic-17f9648f-3af9-4dbb-93de-bf26a0e82936\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>CREATE THIS INFOGRAPHIC TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Pair hard and soft shapes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A quick way to add contrast to your designs is to pair a hard shape, like a square or rectangle, with a soft shape, like a circle or an organic figure. Hard shapes are sharp and crisp while soft shapes are more casual and laid-back, so this combo creates natural contrast.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can even apply this concept when <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/how-to-choose-fonts\/\"><u>choosing fonts<\/u><\/a>. Try pairing a hard-edged typeface with a rounded script, like in this example:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/how-to-customize-your-infographic-template-578de64d-9086-4e61-847b-df88c0e38543\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Infographiccontrastexample.png\" alt=\"Design principle contrast example - Infographic\" class=\"wp-image-60795\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Infographiccontrastexample.png 816w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Infographiccontrastexample-282x1024.png 282w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Infographiccontrastexample-768x2792.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Infographiccontrastexample-563x2048.png 563w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Infographiccontrastexample-730x2654.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 816px) 100vw, 816px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/how-to-customize-your-infographic-template-578de64d-9086-4e61-847b-df88c0e38543\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>CREATE THIS INFOGRAPHIC TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Keep scale in mind<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When it comes to creating contrast with size, you\u2019ll want to keep scale in mind \u2014 the relative size of one design element compared to another. As I touched on earlier, the scale of different elements creates a visual hierarchy, which is key for conveying your information in order of its importance.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, if you\u2019re <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/how-to-make-an-infographic-in-5-steps\/\"><u>making an infographic<\/u><\/a>, it can be helpful to assign a level of importance to the different pieces of information you\u2019re going to be visualizing. Then, you can make sure to scale these elements accordingly.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can see this concept in action in the template below. The biggest circle highlights the main topic, the second largest circles highlight key data points and the smallest circles provide more context:<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/brain-power-886883bb-b448-4708-9095-9f5d0f29f064\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Brain-Infographic-Template.png\" alt=\"design principle contrast\" class=\"wp-image-60726\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Brain-Infographic-Template.png 816w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Brain-Infographic-Template-113x300.png 113w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Brain-Infographic-Template-387x1024.png 387w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Brain-Infographic-Template-768x2033.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Brain-Infographic-Template-580x1536.png 580w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Brain-Infographic-Template-774x2048.png 774w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Brain-Infographic-Template-730x1932.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 816px) 100vw, 816px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/brain-power-886883bb-b448-4708-9095-9f5d0f29f064\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>CREATE THIS INFOGRAPHIC TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Combine clean and gritty textures&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Just like soft and hard shapes, combining clean and gritty textures creates an interesting contrast. A clean texture may simply be a flat, colored background, while a gritty texture may be a distressed or raised pattern.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Either way, combining these types of textures can add visual interest to an otherwise flat design. Distressed textures can also add rustic or retro charm to a design. If your creation is looking a little too classic or plain, adding a gritty texture is a good way to give it more character.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s an example of a business card that contrasts a gritty cardboard background with clean-textured icons and text. (If the background was just a matte color, this card would be a lot less interesting visually!)&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/business-cards\/paper-texture-music-studio-business-card-b49f1829-1bfe-4252-98ee-ed7537f273e6\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Businesscardcontrast-1.png\" alt=\"Design principle contrast example - Business card \" class=\"wp-image-60796\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Businesscardcontrast-1.png 1017w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Businesscardcontrast-1-300x257.png 300w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Businesscardcontrast-1-768x658.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Businesscardcontrast-1-730x625.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1017px) 100vw, 1017px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/business-cards\/paper-texture-music-studio-business-card-b49f1829-1bfe-4252-98ee-ed7537f273e6\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>CREATE THIS BUSINESS CARD TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Play with value progressions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You might think contrast is, by nature, extreme. But it\u2019s possible to be subtle when wielding contrast, too. Playing with value progressions is a great way to add contrast without making things look too stark.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By value progressions, I simply mean adjusting the hue of different colors from light to dark. For instance, the following <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/what-is-an-infographic\/\"><u>infographic<\/u><\/a> uses a gradient from a darker pink-red color to a lighter yellow color to reinforce its message:<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/kubler-ross-change-management-infographic-cccc2f3d-5299-49c8-a505-e1218cdb3cb7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/changemanagementcontrast-1.png\" alt=\"Design principle contrast example - change management infographic\" class=\"wp-image-60797\" width=\"700\" srcset=\"https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/changemanagementcontrast-1.png 816w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/changemanagementcontrast-1-70x300.png 70w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/changemanagementcontrast-1-239x1024.png 239w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/changemanagementcontrast-1-768x3294.png 768w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/changemanagementcontrast-1-358x1536.png 358w, https:\/\/venngage-wordpress.s3.amazonaws.com\/uploads\/2022\/08\/changemanagementcontrast-1-730x3131.png 730w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 816px) 100vw, 816px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\/infographics\/kubler-ross-change-management-infographic-cccc2f3d-5299-49c8-a505-e1218cdb3cb7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>CREATE THIS INFOGRAPHIC TEMPLATE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"#toc\">Return to Table of Contents<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"FAQ\">FAQ on creating contrast in design<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faq-question-1\">What are examples of contrast in design?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Contrast in graphic design can take many forms. It can be as simple as using light and dark colors and big and small sizes. Or, it can be more complex and involve using different shapes, textures and values. Contrast is often used to create visual interest, highlight important information and catch the reader\u2019s attention.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faq-question-2\">What is the difference between contrast and juxtaposition?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The contrast design principle refers to the use of opposites or different elements to create an arresting effect, while juxtaposition is more specific and refers to placing contrasting elements side by side.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faq-question-3\">When is contrast most effective in design?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Of the design principles, contrast is one of the most effective techniques for drawing attention to important elements or a key message. Of course, it also makes designs more visually appealing.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faq-question-4\">What does too much contrast look like?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>An excess of contrast creates tension and confusion in a composition. The design may come across as messy or too busy. To avoid this type of design, stick to applying contrast to place <a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/design-principle-emphasis\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">emphasis<\/a> on the core message you&#8217;re trying to convey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"#toc\">Return to Table of Contents<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Create visual interest and captivate your audience with contrast&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Would a vacation be as sweet if you didn\u2019t work the rest of the time?&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Perhaps, but my guess is the contrast makes it sweeter.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Just like life, contrast enriches designs. It adds beauty, interest, and most of all, meaning. So if you\u2019re in the business of creating visual communications, contrast deserves a prominent place in your toolbox.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I\u2019d be remiss if I didn\u2019t mention Venngage deserves a spot in it too. Between our <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\"><u>collection of stunning templates<\/u><\/a> and user-friendly visual editor, you can get a head start on any design \u2014 and wield contrast with confidence.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<center><a href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/templates\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-cta\"><b>START CREATING FOR FREE<\/b><\/button><\/a><\/center>&nbsp;\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Light and dark. Big and small. Warm and cool.&nbsp; As a design principle, contrast is all about using opposites to capture your audience\u2019s attention and draw the eye to key parts of your message.&nbsp; When creating business communications, these benefits are especially handy. After all, getting your audience\u2019s attention is half the battle. The other [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":106,"featured_media":60727,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"om_disable_all_campaigns":false},"categories":[187],"tags":[310],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v17.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Contrast in design controls where the eye lands first. Learn 5 ways to use it, color, size, shape, type, and space, with examples and templates to apply to your own work.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/venngage.com\/blog\/design-principle-contrast\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"What is Contrast in Design Principle and How to Use It (With Examples)\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Contrast in design controls where the eye lands first. 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