Assignment #3 -- Design Principles

1. Balance

Visual balance is the state of objects in a composition having equilibrium. This particular example contains symmetrical balance and more specifically vertical balance because the image is balanced the same above and below. This balance is achieved through the means of reflection, as the fireworks are reflected off of the water below.
Source: http://stylefrizz.com/201212/happy-new-year-2013/

2. Contrast

Contrast occurs when two related elements are different. In this example, contrast is created through the use of color. The three main colors in this image are hot pink, green, and yellow. By having the apple in a bright green color and the text in a yellow color on the hot pink background, major contrast results. 

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/bang/handson/posters.shtml

3. Emphasis

Emphasis involves the most important element on the page based on the visual message, also know as "focal point". Moreover, emphasis relates to the first thing the eye sees on a design. In this example. it is obvious that the first thing the eye sees is the words "yes" because first, the text is large, and second, the text is in a contrasting color -- purple. The date in this wedding announcement also has emphasis placed on it because of the bold text and purple color again.
Source: http://indulgy.com/post/f47Hm1skR1/save-the-date

4. Rhythm

Rhythm involves the idea of how different elements combine to produce the appearance of movement. This is an example of the outside of the Florence Cathedral. This structure creates rhythm through the repetition of pattern, shapes, and textures. These elements give the eye an appearance of motion, especially with the contrasting shapes such as circles, squares, diamonds. Ultimately, these elements create an organizational flow in which the eye moves from point to point.

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Florence_Cathedral

5. Unity

Unity presents a sense of wholeness which results from the successful combination of different elements. In this example, the different shapes of the dishes and the organization of the image in regards to the balance contribute to the unity and sense of completeness and oneness. Moreover, the color and repetitive nature of the items pictured contribute to the feeling of unity.
Source: http://www.shillingtondesignblog.com/loveTheseGuys/56/v/grid/category_id/love_these_guys/ViewPosts_page/5