Typography & Logos

Why Typography Matters

Typography is an ancient art that dates back to the olden days when people first began writing down their stories. Today, tech savvy people have learned to digitize type and create more than just words. Now, the type can convey the meaning behind the words instead of just being a means of communicating through text. No matter the font chosen, the message should be clear, simple and easy to read without interference from the specific font you have chosen. If a reader can’t even read what you are trying to say because the font is too over-the-top, then guaranteed they won’t even attempt to explore your blog page much less read your post.

Typography provides bloggers everywhere the opportunity to make their page unique. However, the type should be clean, readable, and accessible just like the rest of their page (hopefully!). Although it is probably better to stay consistent with one typeface, combining typefaces can also generate more interest in a blog so the page is not so monotonous. However, it is important to mix obviously different typefaces than sticking to similar ones. You definitely don’t want to give your reader a headache!

Typography establishes a brand’s essence by creating a unique identity that leaves the reader with a certain impression of what you are about. Logos and logotypes, according to Goodman, “either abstract, iconize or combine visual elements to create an ideal, memorable and fast-reading graphic representation.” A logo ideally gives the reader a positive first impression of your blog or website. Remember: the simpler, the better. An image or icon should be simple, memorable and distinct in order to represent the brand in a meaningful way.

When creating the actual logo:

  • Use Ligatures: weave letterforms together to create a sense of unity
  • Incorporate Calligraphy: handwritten type offers a unique form of creativity
  • Merge Letterforms W/ An Icon: the interwoven icon and lettering creates a memorable brand form

As soon as a reader or potential follower enters your page, you are being judged on not only your content, but also your presentation and the uniqueness of your page. A logo immediately sets you apart from the rest and gives you a sense of identity that defines your tone and message. For example, Nike’s symbol, the “swoosh”, is iconic. Nike, known as the winged goddess of victory, uses its symbol to convey the swiftness, agility and superiority of the consumers who buy and use its products. People who wear Nike are essentially wearing the garments of a victorious goddess. Isn’t that majestic?

Questions to ponder:

  1. So much of typography is digitized in this day in age; will the classic forms ever make a comeback?
  2. What happens when a corporation’s or even a person’s iconic logo becomes a denotation of bad quality or dishonesty?

Source of image: http://designspiration.net/image/1083996484621/

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