I decided to redefine my research topic a bit for this blog post because I wanted to learn about more uses of visual storytelling, not just in a comic or illustration context like in my previous blog posts. As I communication designer, I am also interested in editorial design and how to motivate people to read a booklet, brochure, etc. So, I tried to first gather some aspects or notes on how to use the power of visual storytelling in editorial design projects.
Cover Design
The first thing we notice about any print publication is the cover, so the cover of a magazine or a book sets the tone and invites readers into the content. The cover should hint and connect with the content, themes, or stories within the publication, so it’s good to use compelling imagery, typography, and composition to create a cover that catches the attention of the viewer and appeals to the target audience.
Illustrations and Graphics
Of course, illustrations and other graphics can also enhance the storytelling aspect of an editorial design project. I already wrote a lot about visual storytelling in illustrations and narrative art in my previous blog posts, but in editorial projects, illustrations can also have important roles. They can be used as visual metaphors, add depth to the narrative, or illustrate the essence of the written text in a unique way. They can also be used to show anecdotes or characters, adding another layer of storytelling beyond the written content.
Photos
Some publications need a series of photos, so it’s important to think about how to display them, how to use white space and layout between them, and which photos to use after one another. We can tell a story through a series of carefully curated and visually striking photographs and create a cohesive narrative by selecting images that complement each other and convey the progression of events or emotions.
Typography
The choice of typography is, of course, also one of the key factors that influence how readers perceive a written text. We can experiment with typography to add visual interest and reinforce the narrative. We should consider using different fonts, sizes, or layouts to highlight keywords or phrases, evoke a specific mood, or guide readers through the text.
Section Breaks and Transitions
We can use visual cues, such as different typography, colors, or images, to show transitions between sections or articles within the layout. These visual breaks can help establish distinct stories or themes throughout the book or magazine.
Visual Hierarchy
We can use visual hierarchy to guide readers through the layout and highlight important elements. This can be done by using larger images or bold typography for headlines, including pull quotes, or changing the size and placement of visuals to create a story-like flow.
Grid Layouts
We can try using grid-based layouts to create visual stories within our design. We can play around with how we arrange images, text, and negative space to make the reading experience visually engaging and dynamic.
Infographics and Data Visualization
Infographics or data visualizations can be included to present complex information in an easy-to-understand and visually appealing way. By using creative visual storytelling techniques, we can make data-driven content more interesting and accessible.
