Poster printing isn’t a particularly cheap process so it pays to get your designs right first time. There’s nothing more soul-destroying than a spelling error ruining an entire print run, so it’s crucial to spell-check your poster and always use embedded fonts, as Photoshop and InDesign don’t always highlight errors (unlike Microsoft Word). It’s also worth enlisting the help of a friend to proofread your posters; a fresh set of eyes can catch mistakes that you haven’t noticed.
Typography is one of the most powerful design tools at your disposal, and a well-chosen font can transform an ordinary poster into something truly eye-catching. Limiting your font choices to two or three can prevent visual clutter and establish clear typographic hierarchy. Font size, weight and style should all be carefully chosen to reflect your brand and create a coherent visual flow. Using directional cues like lines and arrows to guide the viewer’s eye can also make your posters more engaging and easier to read.
White space, or negative space, is one of the most important design elements you can use. It enhances readability, creates visual hierarchy and gives your key design elements the space they need to shine. Make sure your posters are easy to read by keeping body text left-aligned, and avoid justifying columns. Leaving plenty of white space can also help your posters look more professional and polished.
It’s important to include enough contact information on your poster so that your audience knows how to reach you or where to find more information. This information can include your name, title, school/college, e-mail address and website. Including this information helps your poster stand out from the crowd and adds a professional touch.
The material your poster is printed on can have a significant impact on its overall appearance and quality. Paper is available in a range of finishes and textures, from smooth gloss to high-quality matte. Depending on the intended use of your poster, you can also choose between digital and lithographic printing processes. Lithographic printing uses a series of plates that are pressed against the paper to create the image in layers, so it’s best for larger print runs and for more complex artwork.
Color mode is another key consideration. Most professional printing services will print in CMYK, so it’s important to work in this mode throughout the design process. If you work in RGB, your colors may not translate accurately when you send them to the printer, meaning they will be duller and less vibrant than expected. It’s also a good idea to include a bleed area in your design, allowing for an extra 1/8th of an inch around the edges to prevent important content from being sheared off during the cutting process.
Once you’ve finished your design, it’s a good idea to take a step back and take a long break. This will give your mind a chance to relax, and often when you return, you’ll be able to see the design in an entirely new light.
