Graphic Design Terms and Definitions
Browse graphic design terminology used for print and digital deliverables. Look up terms like CMYK, bleed, DPI, vector vs raster, kerning, and Pantone. Related service: Graphic Design.
Bezier Curve: Mathematical Elegance
A Bezier Curve is a parametric curve used in computer graphics. It is defined by anchor points and “control handles” that determine the curve’s direction and steepness. Read moreabout Bezier Curve: Mathematical Elegance
Anchor Point: The Connection Node
An Anchor Point is a coordinate on a path that marks a change in direction or the start/end of a line segment. Read moreabout Anchor Point: The Connection Node
Adjustment Layer: Flexible Control
An Adjustment Layer is a special type of layer that applies color and tonal adjustments to your image without permanently changing pixel values. Read moreabout Adjustment Layer: Flexible Control
Vignette: Focusing the Eye
A Vignette is a reduction of an image’s brightness or saturation at its periphery compared to its center. It is used to frame the subject and add a sense of depth. Read moreabout Vignette: Focusing the Eye
Sharpening: Enhancing Edge Definition
Sharpening is a technique for increasing the apparent crispness of an image by enhancing the contrast along the edges within the photo. Read moreabout Sharpening: Enhancing Edge Definition
Noise: Digital Variation
Noise is a random variation of brightness or color information in images. In digital photography, it is often seen as an unwanted “static” or graininess in low-light shots. Read moreabout Noise: Digital Variation
Mask: Non-Destructive Hiding
A Mask is a tool used to control the visibility of specific areas of a layer. Unlike the eraser tool, which deletes pixels, a mask simply hides them, allowing for non-destructive editing. Read moreabout Mask: Non-Destructive Hiding
Halftone: The Illusion of Continuous Tone
Halftone is a reprographic technique that simulates continuous-tone imagery through the use of dots, varying either in size or in spacing, generating a gradient-like effect. Read moreabout Halftone: The Illusion of Continuous Tone
Grain: The Organic Texture
Grain (or film grain) refers to the random optical texture of processed photographic film, caused by small particles of metallic silver or dye clouds. Read moreabout Grain: The Organic Texture
Duotone: Two-Tone Visual Impact
A Duotone is an image made up of two contrasting colors. Originally a print process to increase the tonal range of a grayscale image, it is now a popular digital design trend. Read moreabout Duotone: Two-Tone Visual Impact