How Designing In Monochrome Brings Color to Life
In the vibrant world of graphic design, color is a popular and potent tool for storytelling. But what if I told you the key to making sure your color pops is to design in black and white?
Taking the time to ensure your composition, images, and type work in monochrome has saved me weeks, if not months, of frustrating revisions over the course of my nonprofit design career, and it can do the same for you. Read on to find out why.
Clarity in Communication
Applying the black-and-white test can actually enhance your application of color once by simplifying your composition. And, when it comes to designing for nonprofits, simplicity is the key to clarity. A well-designed image can speak volumes, but we only have about three seconds, tops, to communicate the message to our audience. The composition needs to jump off the page. Designing in monochrome is a great tool for making sure that happens, ensuring that your visual message is crystal clear.
The Monochrome Advantage
1. Focus on Form and Structure
Removing color forces us to focus on the fundamental elements of design: form, texture, and structure. This step is crucial in guaranteeing that the core message and visual hierarchy are strong before introducing color nuances. It can also reveal weirdly shaped white space or other unintended shapes that might be overlooked when designing in color.
2. Accessibility and Inclusivity
Colorblindness affects a significant portion of the population. Testing designs in black and white ensures accessibility and inclusivity, making your visuals comprehensible to a broader audience. Disability justice is a non-negotiable and must be a consideration in all of our design work!
3. Print Versatility
For nonprofits producing print materials, the black-and-white test is a practical consideration. It guarantees that your designs retain impact and clarity even when translated to grayscale in printed materials. I’ve worked with designers who brought me such lovingly crafted compositions, glowing with gorgeous color, only to return to the literal drawing board because the contrast fell apart in black and white and turned their creation into a blob. Don’t let this be you!
Transitioning to Color with Confidence
Once your design stands strong in black and white, introducing color becomes a strategic enhancement rather than a distraction. With practice, this transition becomes seamless, ensuring that the essence and impact of your message shine through.
Russell Estes is the co-founder, principal, and creative director for Square Lightning. Artwork by Cierra Brinson.
The black-and-white test isn’t just a step; it’s a commitment to delivering clear, resonant visual communication. If you’re a nonprofit professional who wants your message to stand out with clarity and purpose, contact us for a consultation, and let's look at your needs in black and white.