Sometimes communications with your graphic designer or graphics department can feel as if your talking to someone in a different language. What are these terms? What do you mean is it RGB or CMYK? Monochromatic? To the non-art enthusiast, these terms can mean anything. But in the world of art, graphics and printing these terms have specific meanings. Here are some Graphic Design terms defined to help make your communications process easier!
1. RGB:
RGB is the standard color mode for images shown on screen. RGB stands for Red, Green and Blue, the three colors of light that are used to display images on digital screens such as cell phones, tv’s or computers.
2. CMYK:
CMYK is the standard color mode for images that will be printed. CYMK stands for Cyan, Yellow, Magenta, and Black (Key). CMYK is also known as the four-color process or four-color printing. Unlike RGB which is light based, CMYK printers use ink or toner.
RGB CMYK
3. Monochromatic:
Monochromatic describes a color palette that uses various shades of one single color.
4. Analogous:
Describes a color palette where the colors used are next to each other on the color wheel. These are usually seen in nature.
5. Complementary:
Describes a color palette where the colors used lie directly across from each other on the color wheel. These tend to be a bit alarming at first, however are a great strategy to employ when you require specific visual elements to stand out.
These are only some of the many terms used in the print and graphics Industry that may be a little tricky to remember. Do you need help with a design for your next project? Contact us here to speak to a member of our design team!
