Contrast adds interest to the page and provides a means of emphasizing what is important or directing the reader's eye. On a page without contrast, the reader doesn't know where to look first or what is important. Contrast makes a page more interesting so the reader is more apt to pay attention to what is on the page. Contrast aids in readability by making headlines and subheadings stand out. Contrast shows what is important by making smaller or lighter elements recede on the page to allow other elements to take center stage.
Create Contrast by Creating Obvious Differences
By Jacci Howard Bear, About.com
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How Contrast Works
Use size, value, color, and type to create contrast
Graphic © J. Bear
Contrast is one the principles of design. Contrast occurs when two elements are different. The greater the difference the greater the contrast. The key to working with contrast is to make sure the differences are obvious. Four common methods of creating contrast are by using differences in size, value, color, and type.
Index: Create Contrast by Creating Obvious Differences
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Elements and Principles of Design Tutorials
Contrast - Principle of DesignValue as an Element of DesignMass (Size), Shape, Texture, Color
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