Graphics and Design

GIMP: An Introduction

Opening a New Document


A bit about Layers

Adding and Altering Text

Creating a 'Drop Shadow'

The Pencil, Paintbrush, Airbrush Tools

       Brushes, Scale, Opacity,  Fade,  Jitter

The Ink Tool: Caligraphy


The History window


A bit more about layers

The Bucket Fill tool

Saving your project.




Gimp Assignment 1
1.  Install Gimp from www.gimp.org
2.  Create a graphic image, using the tools we have learned, to be the header for our class list.

It must:
  Have Text that says 'Our Class'
  Have a Drop Shadow
  Have used at least 5 different brushes. (They can differ in Opacity, Jitter, Fade, Scale, type)
  Have a background other than white.
  Be posted on your blog as 'Gimp Assignment 1'.
  Look somewhat better than the current header. (I will pick one of yours to use on our class blog.)

Gimp - Layer Masks

One of the most powerful features of a layer based graphics program
is the ability to apply layer masks.

The layer mask is pretty much like magic.

Wherever the mask is black, the image below will show through.
Wherever the mask is white, the image will be opaque.

Let's do this one together:

Gimp Assignment 2:
- Create a banner, 600 pixels wide by 100 pixels high, that uses a layer mask.
  The banner could blend two pictures, pictures and words, or ?????
- Post the banner on your blog, directly below the title. (Use a seperate gadget.)

If you forget some of the steps, try this tutorial.

http://www.gimp-tutorials.com/tutorial/Layer-Mask-basics-in-gimp-87.html

Poster Design

Some of the most important forms of mass media have been around for hundreds of years, relatively unchanged.

The poster is a good example of one of these longlasting forms.

This website MoviePosters.com is pretty self-explanatory, and will give you a sampling of some of the best over the years, in varying categories (in one person's opinion - don't forget that - the Internet is FULL of opinion and you are welcome to form your own as well.)

You should go through the posters at that site and make a list of your five favourite movie posters. Don't rate them by the movie, rate them by the poster.

If you don't like that site, you could try this A Site with More Movie Poster Sites which will link you up with a bunch more choices, including some awesome B movie posters, which are terrifically cheesy at times. 

And so, how do you rate these posters so that you aren't just using your opinion?

We need to come up with a way of evaluating a movie poster so that we can have a common language to use in a review.

Gimp - Continued

Layer Masks - A Review

In order to blend two images together.
i) Bring in the first image as your background.
ii) Bring in another image as the layer above it.
iii) Right click and select 'Add Layer Mask' on the topmost image.
iv) Wherever you add black to that mask - you will see through to the image below.
     - Thus, if you use a gradient (black fading to white) you have the two images fading together.

  

Selection Tools




Selection tools give you the ability to define certain areas on your canvas and work with only those areas.
This can be helpful for tasks like changing someone's hair colour.

Remember, you may need to change the view size to make your selection more precise!

 

Once you have selected Fergie's hair, cut and paste it (making a new layer),  then select
Colours from the menu and change her hair colour as you see fit.


Gimp Assignment 3:
- Find a picture (it could be yourself) of a person and their hair.
- Change their hair colour.
- Pay attention to detail to make this transition as believable as possible.
- Post both the before and after pictures on your blog as 'Gimp Assignment 3'



Pathways




You can make text, images, and brushes follow paths you lay out for them.

Create your pathway first.
Design some text that will fit nicely on to your path.
Press the 'Text Along Path' button.
Go to the pathway tab and right click your pathway - select 'Path to Selection'
Fill your selection with the paint bucket tool.


Having trouble?  Review our process at the link below.
http://gimp-tutorials.net/gimp-text-to-path-tutorial


Gimp Assignment 4:
Put your name on an image or blank canvas, using at least 5 different pathways.
Post to your blog as 'Gimp Assignment 4'.



Photo Filters
Gimp has a large amount of pre-set filters.  They can be accessed by using the 'Filters' option from the top of the screen.   I'll show you a few, but you'll likely want to try a lot of them out!

Ex.     'Filters > Decor > Old Photo'

Gimp Assignment 5
Alter any photo, using Filters, in at least two different ways from its original form.
Post, on your blog, the original and the two alterations.




Can't quite remember, or want to know some of the GIMP toolbar's intricacies? 
Try the 'Tools Overview' link below.

Gimp Tools Overview
http://docs.gimp.org/en/gimp-tools.html




*****************
Saving For the Web
*****************

Your gimp file has the extension .xcf  (This is not an acceptable format to upload to your blog.)

Try saving your file as a   .gif    or   .jpeg     file.

To do this, go to 'Save As'

Then select the 'Select File Type (By Extension)' option.

Pick .gif or .jpeg and hit the save button.  Then hit 'export'.  Then 'save' again.  Voila!

Read the following article: http://ezinearticles.com/?Five-Design-Elements-For-Posters&id=1314101



Making up the Criteria (as a class)


What are the goals or jobs that a good movie poster must accomplish?
1. Target the right demographic.
2. Stir up interest / curiosity.
3. Give the audience an emotion /feeling about the film.
4. Give an accurate (or purposefully innacurate) portrayal of the film
5. Get people to see your movie!!!
What are the design/informational elements that must be incorporated into the poster?


Balance
Unity
Movement
Appeal
Emphasis


Make a chart or checklist that you could use to initially evaluate a poster quickly.


Focal point
Name of the movie
Elements of Design and Colour (See Colour and Design Page)
Stars Names / or not.
Release Date
Positive Reviews & Testimonials
Tag Line / Catch Phrase
Producers / Directors
Rating



What is the emotional tone and atmosphere of the poster, and the effect on you?

    Ex. Identify and evaluate the specific elements being used in the poster(s) in question. 

Note: If you're uncertain about poster design, or need some extra help, why don't you try googling "elements of good movie poster design" or something like that?

Poster Prototype Assignment:

- On a piece of blank, 8.5 x 11 paper, do the preliminary sketch (in pencil) for a poster that will advertise your favourite movie.  Remember to look over our checklist to make sure you have incorporated all the necessary design elements.

- When your sketch is complete, review it with Mr. Alexander, then take a picture of it and post it on your blog.

  

Design & Colour

Graphic Composition

COMPOSITIONAL TECHNIQUES

The rule of thirds is a guideline commonly followed by visual artists. The objective is to stop the subject(s) and areas of interest (such as the horizon) from bisecting the image, by placing them near one of the lines that would divide the image into three equal columns and rows, ideally near the intersection of those lines.

Dividing the parts of an image up according to this proportion helps to create a pleasing, balanced composition.

Rule of odds

The "rule of odds" states that by framing the object of interest in an artwork with an even number of surrounding objects, it becomes more comforting to the eye, thus creates a feeling of ease and pleasure. It is based on the assumption that humans tend to find visual images that reflect their own preferences/wishes in life more pleasing and attractive.

Rule of space

The rule of space applies to artwork (photography, advertising, illustration) picturing object(s) to which the artist wants to apply the illusion of movement, or which is supposed to create a contextual bubble in the viewer's mind.

This can be achieved, for instance, by leaving white space in the direction the eyes of a portrayed person are looking, or, when picturing a runner, adding white space in front of him rather than behind him to indicate movement.

Simplification

Images with clutter can distract from the main elements within the picture and make it difficult to identify the subject. By decreasing the extraneous content, the viewer is more likely to focus on the primary objects. Clutter can also be reduced through the use of lighting, as the brighter areas of the image tend to draw the eye, as do lines, squares and colour. In painting, the artist may use less detailed and defined brushwork towards the edges of the picture.

Geometry and symmetry

Related to the rule of odds is the observation that triangles are an aesthetically pleasing implied shape within an image. In a canonically attractive face, the mouth and eyes fall within the corners of the area of an equilateral triangle. The "rule of odds" suggests that an odd number of subjects in an image is more interesting than an even number. Thus if you have more than one subject in your picture, the suggestion is to choose an arrangement with at least three subjects. An even number of subjects produces symmetries in the image, which can appear less natural for a naturalistic, informal composition.

Other techniques

• The direction followed by the viewer's eye should lead the viewer's gaze around all elements in the work before leading out of the picture;
• Small, high contrast, elements have as much impact as larger, duller elements;
• The prominent subject should be off-centre, unless a symmetrical or formal composition is desired, and can be balanced by smaller satellite elements
• the horizon line should not divide the art work in two equal parts but be positioned to emphasize either the sky or ground; showing more sky if painting is of clouds, sun rise/set, and more ground if a landscape

Design & Colour

Elements of Design

The elements of design are the building blocks of all designs, chosen to convey the message — beyond the actual words or photos used. Desktop publishing documents utilize the five elements of design : lines | shapes | mass | texture | color. Can you identify each element in your own designs?

LINES

Lines are one of the basic elements of design. Alone or in combination with other lines or shapes they can aid in the readability, appearance, and message of a design. Have you used lines to organize or guide the eye? Have you used lines to simulate texture or provide movement?

S

MASS

© J. Bear

Mass equals size. Each piece you create has a physical mass. Additionally, each component of the design have their own mass relative to the whole piece. Does your layout look or feel heavy or light? Does that support or go against what you want to convey with your piece? Is the paper too stiff or too flimsy? Is the overall size easy to handle? Does the size of page or the size of the text or the size of graphics overwhelm or whisper softly?

SHAPE

© J. Bear

Shape is one of the basic elements of design. Alone or in combination with other shapes or lines they can convey universal meanings as well as guide the eye or organize information. The three basic types of shapes are geometric, natural, and abstract. What shapes have you used in your document -- from the shape of the folded and unfolded page to the shapes used on the page? Have you used shapes to organize or grab attention? Do you use certain shapes to symbolize an idea or convey a mood or emotion? Have you used shapes to create movement (or stillness), or provide texture?

TEXTURE

© J. Bear

Texture is always a part of our designs whether intentional or not. It is the visual or tactile surface characteristics of a piece. What does your paper feel like -- slick, fuzzy, rough? Does its actual or visual texture (created through lines, shapes, or photographic images) match the overall message you want to convey?

COLOR AND VALUE

© J. Bear

Color is not essential to a good design. Black and white and shades of gray can create 'color' that is just as effective as reds, blues, and greens. However, color is an added dimension that can evoke moods and make powerful statements when used wisely. Value is present in all design. It is the lightness or darkness of an object, regardless of color. Value is relative to the background color and other items on the page. Have you used color and value to show contrast, create movement, lead the eye, or convey specific messages?

Elements of Design





Colour Theory

Colors are more than a combination of red and blue or yellow and black. They are non-verbal communication. Colors have symbolism and color meanings that go beyond ink. As you design brochures, logos, and Web sites, it is helpful to keep in mind how the eye and the mind perceive certain colors and the color meanings we associate with each color.

Physical and Cultural Color Reactions
Sometimes colors create a physical reaction (red has been shown to raise blood pressure) and at other times it is a cultural reaction (in the U.S. white is for weddings, in some Eastern cultures, white is the color for mourning and funerals). Colors follow trends as well. Avocado, a shade of green, is synomous with the 60s and 70s in the minds of some consumers.

Color Relationships
In addition to understanding color meanings, it helps with mixing and matching colors to know the relationship of adjacent, harmonizing, contrasting, and complementary colors. 

• Adjacent or harmonizing colors appear next to each other on the color wheel. Harmonizing colors often work well together but if too close in value they can appear washed out or not have enough contrast. A harmonizing trio could be something like blue, light blue, and cyan or perhaps red, orange, and yellow.
  
  
  
  
  
  
• Contrasting colors are separated from each other by other colors -- they come from different segments of the color wheel. The further apart, the more the contrast. Red (from the warm half of the color wheel) contrasts with green and blue (from the cool half of the color wheel). Shades of purple contrast with shades of green. Contrasting colors that are directly opposite each other on the color wheel may be described as clashing colors -- see the description for complementary. Despite the name, colors that clash are not always a bad combination if used carefully. They provide great contrast and high visibility.
  
  
  
  
  
  
• Complementary colors are on opposite sides of the color wheel -- they are each half of a pair of contrasting colors. For example, blue is a complementary color to yellow. Green is complementary to purple and magenta. A pair of complementary colors printed side by side can sometimes cause visual vibration (clash) making them a less than desirable combination. However, separate them on the page with other colors and they can work together. Note the spelling. These are not complimentary colors. They don't always flatter (compliment) one another but they do complete (complement) each other.

COLOR THEORY

Color theory encompasses a multitude of definitions, concepts and design applications. All the information would fill several encyclopedias. As an introduction, here are a few basic concepts.

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The Color Wheel

A color circle, based on red, yellow and blue, is traditional in the field of art. Sir Isaac Newton developed the first circular diagram of colors in 1666. Since then scientists and artists have studied and designed numerous variations of this concept. Differences of opinion about the validity of one format over another continue to provoke debate. In reality, any color circle or color wheel which presents a logically arranged sequence of pure hues has merit.

  

PRIMARY COLORS
Red, yellow and blue

In traditional color theory, these are the 3 pigment colors that can not be mixed or formed by any combination of other colors. All other colors are derived from these 3 hues

SECONDARY COLORS
Green, orange and purpleThese are the colors formed by mixing the primary colors.

TERTIARY COLORSYellow-orange, red-orange, red-purple, blue-purple, blue-green and yellow-green.

These are the colors formed by mixing a primary and a secondary color. That's why the hue is a two word name, such as blue-green, red-violet, and yellow-orange. 

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 COLOR HARMONY

Harmony can be defined as a pleasing arrangement of parts, whether it be music, poetry, color, or even an ice cream sundae.

In visual experiences, harmony is something that is pleasing to the eye. It engages the viewer and it creates an inner sense of order, a balance in the visual experience. When something is not harmonious, it's either boring or chaotic. At one extreme is a visual experience that is so bland that the viewer is not engaged. The human brain will reject under-stimulating information. At the other extreme is a visual experience that is so overdone, so chaotic that the viewer can't stand to look at it. The human brain rejects what it can not organize, what it can not understand. The visual task requires that we present a logical structure. Color harmony delivers visual interest and a sense of order.

In summary, extreme unity leads to under-stimulation, extreme complexity leads to over-stimulation. Harmony is a dynamic equilibrium.

Some Formulas for Color Harmony

There are many theories for harmony. The following illustrations and descriptions present some basic formulas .

A color scheme based on analogous colors

Analogous colors are any three colors which are side by side on a 12 part color wheel, such as yellow-green, yellow, and yellow-orange. Usually one of the three colors predominates.

A color scheme based on complementary colors

Complementary colors are any two colors which are directly opposite each other, such as red and green and red-purple and yellow-green. In the illustration above, there are several variations of yellow-green in the leaves and several variations of red-purple in the orchid. These opposing colors create maximum contrast and maximum stability.

A color scheme based on nature

Nature provides a perfect departure point for color harmony. In the illustration above, red yellow and green create a harmonious design, regardless of whether this combination fits into a technical formula for color harmony.

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COLOR CONTEXT

How color behaves in relation to other colors and shapes is a complex area of color theory. Compare the contrast effects of different color backgrounds for the same red square.

©Color Voodoo Publications

Red appears more brilliant against a black background and somewhat duller against the white background. In contrast with orange, the red appears lifeless; in contrast with blue-green, it exhibits brilliance. Notice that the red square appears larger on black than on other background colors.

Different readings of the same color

©Color Voodoo Publications

If your computer has sufficient color stability and gamma correction (link to Color Blind Computers) you will see that the small purple rectangle on the left appears to have a red-purple tinge when compared to the small purple rectangle on the right. They are both the same color as seen in the illustration below. This demonstrates how three colors can be perceived as four colors.

Observing the effects colors have on each other is the starting point for understanding the relativity of color. The relationship of values, saturations and the warmth or coolness of respective hues can cause noticeable differences in our perception of color.

http://sixrevisions.com/graphics-design/a-comparative-design-look-at-remakes-of-movie-posters/

Gimp - The Rest

GIMP - The Rest


Adding Fonts to Your Computer (and Gimp)

Find a TRUSTED site such as 1001freefonts.com and download the font you love.

Mac and PC have different processes for installing fonts, however both are rather simple.

The harder of the two is the Mac process.  I will demonstrate it for you.

* Please do not download fonts on the CC lab computers. *

Adding Patterns to Gimp


Any picture can be a pattern.

It needs to be saved as a .pat file, then put it in the appropriate folder.


To find the path of this folder:
Edit > Preferences > Folders > Patterns >


You will probably have to restart GIMP, then your pattern should be available. :)




The Clone Tool


 - For Cloning

 - For Painting with pre-defined patterns.



The Dodge and Burn Tool:  Darkening or Lightening an Image

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GIMP - ASSIGNMENT REVIEW

Gimp Assignment 1
Create a graphic image, using the tools we have learned, to be the header for our class list.
It must:
  Have Text that says 'Our Class'
  Have a Drop Shadow
  Have used at least 5 different brushes. (They can differ in Opacity, Jitter, Fade, Scale, type)
  Have a background other than white.
  Be posted on your blog as 'Gimp Assignment 1'.
  Look somewhat better than the current header. (I will pick one of yours to use on our class blog.)


Gimp Assignment 2:
- Create a banner, 600 pixels wide by 100 pixels high, that uses a layer mask.
  The banner could blend two pictures, pictures and words, or ?????
- Post the banner on your blog, directly below the title. (Use a seperate gadget.)

Poster Prototype Assignment:

- On a piece of blank, 8.5 x 11 paper, do the preliminary sketch (in pencil) for a poster that will advertise your favourite movie.  Remember to look over our checklist to make sure you have incorporated all the necessary design elements.

- When your sketch is complete, review it with Mr. Alexander, then take a picture of it and post it on your blog.

Gimp Assignment 3:
- Find a picture (it could be yourself) of a person and their hair.
- Change their hair colour.
- Pay attention to detail to make this transition as believable as possible.
- Post both the before and after pictures on your blog as 'Gimp Assignment 3'




Gimp Assignment 4:
Put your name on an image or blank canvas, using at least 5 different pathways.
Post to your blog as 'Gimp Assignment 4'.

Gimp Assignment 5

Alter any photo, using Filters, in at least two different ways from its original form.

Post, on your blog, the original and the two alterations as Gimp Assignment 5.

Print and Graphic Summative Assignment - Individual:
Based on your Poster Prototype Assignment, and using the graphic design software you have learned, you will be creating the poster for your favourite movie.  Your poster will be the industry standard of 27 inches wide x 40 inches high. (Thus, if you are using pictures from the internet, make sure they are high resolution!)
We will develop the rubric as a class.  
The rubric will contain criteria for creativity, design, colour theory, and industry requirement.

RUBRIC: Print and Graphic Summative Assignment - Individual

Brainstorm: Balance, Awesomeness, Creativity, Use of learned techniques, Appeal, Necessary Information, 

Elements of Design - Rule of Odds (Framing), Symmetry, Direction or Movement, Texture, Contrast, Unity, Rule of Thirds, Ratings / Stars / Release Date / Title, Colour Theory, Font,  Mass, Simplicity

Knowledge and Understanding

1  2  3  4   :   Gimp Assignments 1 to 5 are complete.

Application

1  2  3  4   :  Balance - Symmetry (or intentional asymmetry), simplicity, framing

1  2  3  4   :  Emphasis - Colour contrast, rule of thirds

1  2  3  4   :  Unity - Thematically (Font, Colour, Subject, Lighting, texture)

1  2  3  4   :  Movement - 'Directs' viewer to important information, allows for action to happen, 

Communication

1  2  3  4   : Appropriate Information Included:  Title, Stars, Release Date, Rating

1  2  3  4   : Language appropriate for demographic and Theme:  Spelling, Font

Thinking and Inquiry

1  2  3  4   :  Creativity / Awesomeness

1  2  3  4   :  Appeals to intended demographic. (Rainbows and Pegasus vs. Masks and Chainsaws)


*Levels:
   1 - Minimum Requirements  
    2 - Satisfactory
    3 - Well done
    4 - Mind Blowing

Print and Graphic Summative Assignment - Group:

Step 1:  Find a group of four (4) people. (There are 28 students in the class - 7 groups.)
             You are in Grade 12 now, you need to find people to work with.
            (There are 6 macs and a couple of people with computers 
             - each group will need to access at least one computer.)

            

Step 2:  Your group needs to create a blog, that you can all access, for this project.

            (Make sure your groups names are listed somewhere on the blog.)

Step 3:  You will need to email the link, from this blog, to Mr. Alexander.

Step 4:  As a group, you need to invent a film (come up with a title), its plot, and its main characters.

            You will also need to decide who (A list celebrities?  GDCI drama students?) you will cast as these characters.

            Before moving on to step 5, this information needs to be posted on your blog.  It also needs to be

            checked by Mr. Alexander.

Step 5:  You are going to make prototypes of two promotional items for your film.

            (Remember, you want to make me want to see this film!)
            These two items are a movie poster (industry standard sizing) and a blue ray cover. (At least 3 sides.)
            Have your prototypes reviewed by Mr. Alexander, initialed, then posted on your blog.

Step 6:  Using a graphic design program, such as photoshop or gimp, work with your team to create your two promotional items.  These will be your deliverables.




RUBRIC:

Knowledge and Understanding

1  2  3  4   :   Project steps and appropriate industry guidelines are followed.

Application

1  2  3  4   :  Balance - Symmetry (or intentional asymmetry), simplicity, framing

1  2  3  4   :  Emphasis - Colour contrast, rule of thirds

1  2  3  4   :  Unity - Thematically (Font, Colour, Subject, Lighting, texture)

1  2  3  4   :  Movement - 'Directs' viewer to important information, allows for action to happen, 

Communication

1  2  3  4   : Appropriate Information Included:  Title, Stars, Release Date, Rating

1  2  3  4   : Language appropriate for demographic and Theme:  Spelling, Font

Thinking and Inquiry

1  2  3  4   :  Creativity / Awesomeness

1  2  3  4   :  Appeals to intended demographic. (Rainbows and Pegasus vs. Masks and Chainsaws)

*Levels:

   1 - Minimum Requirements  

    2 - Satisfactory

    3 - Well done

    4 - Mind Blowing

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Great work everyone!!!   :)