MMPGD301: GRAPHIC DESIGN PRODUCTION

Overview
Introduction
This competency covers the basics that will help to get started in a graphic design
career. It covers theory, including digital image basics, composition and layout
concepts, typography, and color. This competency familiarizes the trainee with the
design process and the establishment of creative briefs. It introduces essential
graphic design tools, from drawing sketchbooks to computer drawing, image
manipulation, and page layout applications.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this module, trainees will be able to:
 Introduce graphic design basics
 Apply Photoshop basics
 Apply Illustrator basics
 Apply InDesign basics

Learning Outcome 1: Introduce Graphic Design Basics

Indicative Content 1.1: Describe Key Features and Formats of Digital Images
Digital image key features are:
1. Pixel
In digital imaging, a pixel or picture element is a physical point in a raster image or
the smallest addressable element in an all-points-addressable display device, so it
is the smallest controllable element of a picture represented on the screen.
Pixels are the smallest units of a digital image, representing individual points of
color. They are arranged in a grid pattern to form shapes, text, and other visual
elements. Think of them as tiny squares that, when combined, create the picture
we see on a screen. TVs.
Example:
Think of it like a mosaic: Each tiny tile (or pixel) contributes to the overall picture.

Key points about pixels:

 Resolution: The more pixels an image has, the higher its resolution,
meaning it will look clearer and sharper.
 Image size: The number of pixels in an image determines its size. A larger
image has more pixels.
 Pixelation: If an image is enlarged too much, it can become pixelated,
meaning the individual pixels become visible and the image looks blurry
Pixelation can occur intentionally or unintentionally:
1. Intentional Pixelation: This is often used as a stylistic choice in digital art
and design, where designers create images with a pixelated look to achieve
a retro or unique visual effect.
 2. Unintentional Pixilation: This happens when an image is enlarged beyond
its original resolution, causing individual pixels to become visible. This
results in a loss of detail and a jagged, blurry appearance

 Raster graphics: Images made up of pixels are called raster graphics.

Common file formats for raster images include JPEG, PNG, and GIF.
B. Resolution:
Image resolution is a measure of the quality of an image, determined by the
number of pixels (tiny dots of color) that make up the picture. Image resolution is
typically measured in pixels per inch (PPI) or dots per inch (DPI).
Think of it like a grid: the more squares (pixels) you have in the grid, the more
detail you can see.
Here's a visual example:

 Left image: Lower resolution, fewer pixels, less detail.

 Right image: Higher resolution, more pixels, more detail.

Key points to remember:

 Higher resolution = more pixels
 More pixels = sharper image
  Image size and resolution are related: larger images can typically
accommodate higher resolutions.
Types of Resolution
 Spatial Resolution: This refers to the number of pixels in an image. For
example, an image with a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels has 1920 pixels
horizontally and 1080 pixels vertically. The total number of pixels can also
be expressed in megapixels (MP), where 1 MP equals 1 million pixels2.
 Spectral Resolution: This pertains to the ability of a sensor to distinguish
fine wavelength intervals. This is about how well a camera or sensor can
see different colors or types of light.
 Temporal Resolution: This is the frequency at which data is captured over
time. It is crucial in video and time-lapse photography.
How does image resolution play out on my computer monitor?
Imagine your computer monitor as a grid of tiny squares. Each square is a pixel.
The more pixels your monitor has, the higher its resolution. This means you can
see more detail in the images displayed on your screen.
3. Size in Images
Image size refers to the dimensions of an image, typically measured in pixels. It
determines how large the image appears on a screen and how much space it
occupies in storage.
Key factors to consider:
 Width: The horizontal dimension of the image, measured in pixels.
 Height: The vertical dimension of the image, measured in pixels.
 File size: The amount of storage space an image occupies, usually measured
in kilobytes (KB), megabytes (MB), or gigabytes (GB).
 Resolution: The number of pixels per unit of length.
 Aspect ratio: The ratio of the width to the height of an image. Common
aspect ratios include 4:3, 16:9, and 1:1.
3. Data Compression
Data compression: is a technique used to reduce the size of data files without
compromising their quality or information content. It works by identifying and
removing redundant or unnecessary data elements.
Why is data compression important?
 Storage efficiency: By reducing file sizes, data compression saves storage
space on hard drives, flash drives, and other storage devices.
 Transmission efficiency: Smaller files can be transmitted more quickly over
networks, improving download speeds and reducing bandwidth usage.
 Faster processing: Compressed files can be processed more efficiently by
computers, leading to improved performance in various applications.

Types of data compression:

 Lossless compression: This type of compression removes redundant data
without losing any information. It is suitable for text, code, and other data
that cannot afford any data loss. Examples of lossless compression
algorithms include ZIP, RAR, and GZIP.
Lossless advantages and disadvantages

o Advantages: No loss of quality, slight decreases in image file sizes.

o Disadvantages: Larger files than if you were to use lossy compression.

 Lossy compression: This type of compression removes some data from the
original file, resulting in a smaller file size but also a slight degradation in
quality. It is often used for images, audio, and video files where a small loss
in quality is acceptable. Examples of lossy compression algorithms include
JPEG, MP3, and MPEG.
Lossy advantages and disadvantages

Advantages: Very small file sizes and lots of tools, plug-ins, and software
support it.
 Disadvantages: Quality degrades with a higher ratio of compression. Can't get
the original back after compressing.

F. Raster graphics

Raster graphics is that raster graphics are composed of pixels. File

extensions: BMP, GIF, JPG.

G. Vector graphics

Vector graphics are composed of paths.

Topic 2: Describing common raster formats

1. *.JPEG
2. *.PNG
3. *.GIF
4. *.TIFF
5. *.BMP
6. *.PDF
7. RAW:
o .RAW
o *.CR
o *.CR2

Format Description
.JPEG JPEG. Stands for "Joint Photographic
Experts Group." JPEG is a popular image
file format.
.PNG • PNG stands for
PortableNetwork
Graphic
• PNG Files are often used to
store graphics on websites.
• . Another use for PNGs is
when portions of the image need
to be transparent
.GIF • Stands for "Graphics
Interchange Format.
• GIF is an image file format
commonly used for images on the
web
.TIFF of TIF • TIFF of TIF: Tagged Image
File
• Is a standard in the printing
and publishing industry.
.BMP • The BMP file format
standard for bitmap
• Handles graphic files within
the Microsoft Windows OS.
 .PDF • PDF (Portable Document
Format) also
is Printer Definition File
• Is a file format that has captured
all the elements of a printed
document as an electronic image
that you can view, navigate, print,
or forward to someone else.
RAW .RAW • Raw file is a collection of
unprocessed data.
• Raw files are often used as
data files by software programs
that load and process the data.
.CR CR stands for Canon RAW and belongs
to the RAW image file formats group.
.CR2 CR2 stands for Canon RAW 2nd edition
and belongs to the RAW image file
formats group.
.DNG • DNG stands for Digital
Negative
• was created to store image
data in a generic, highly
compatible format, unlike RAW
files that have specific formats
based on manufacturer and
camera type
Topic 3: Describing common vector formats

Format Description
SVG • SVG stands for Scalable Vector
Graphics
Files
• UseXML (Extensible Markup
 Language (XML)) based text
format for describing the
appearance of image.
EPS • EPS stands for Encapsulated
PostScript
• Used in vector-based images in
Adobe
Illustrator.

Describing proprietary application formats

A. Photoshop
1*.PSD
Stands for Photoshop Document
Is the default format that Photoshop uses for saving data
PSD is a proprietary file that allows the user to work with the images layers even
after the file has been saved

2. PSB

• Stands for (Photoshop Big)

• File extension is an Adobe Photoshop Large Document file.

B. Illustrator *.AI
AI file extension represents Adobe Illustrator Artwork file. This graphics file
format is a creation of Adobe Systems for containing vector-based graphics on a
single page.
 C. InDesign *.INDD
An INDD file is a professional page layout project created with Adobe InDesign. It
includes page formatting information, page content, linked files, styles, and
swatches.
INDD files are commonly used for creating and formatting books, magazines,
newspapers, flyers, and brochures.
Indicative Content 1.2: Capture Digital Images
Topic 1: Ways to capture beautiful images
DEFINITION
Capturing in graphic design refers to the process of acquiring or creating visual
elements for use in a design project. This can include:
 Taking photographs: Capturing images of people, places, or objects using a
camera.
 Creating illustrations: Drawing or digitally creating original artwork.
 Using stock images: Acquiring pre-existing images from stock photo
libraries.
 Scanning images: Converting physical images into digital format.
 Capturing screen recordings: Recording video or screenshots of computer
screens.
Ways to capture images
o Choose a Subject
Be aware of what is around you or what the environment has to offer. Choose a
focal point for the image. Each image can tell a different story so be aware of what
the focus of the image is.
o Get as Close as Possible
There are a lot of powerful lenses available but will require investment in money
and time in understanding how to take advantage of the equipment. Start with
the basic gear. This may require moving closer to the subject to get a better shot.
A close-up can capture more details that can often go unnoticed.
o Use a Tripod
Even the most stable hands can quiver. Any shaking, however minor, can blur the
image. There is little one can do to fix a shaky image. As much as possible, bring a
tripod and use it.
o Be Aware of Light and Shadows
When outdoors, use the light available. Always be aware of where the light is
coming from. Having the light directly behind the subject can cover the front of
the face of the individual. Using flash can also help fill in dark areas. Be careful of
overexposing the image as well as reflective surfaces.
o Change the Angle
Take photographs from different angles. In some cases, such as photographing in a
studio, the photographer can rearrange the subjects. Try repositioning the
subjects to achieve a different effect.
The process of image capture can be divided into four steps. These are:
1. Capture: This is the initial step where the image is actually recorded using a
camera or other imaging device.
2. Store: Once captured, the image file is stored on a digital storage device,
such as a computer's hard drive, a memory card, or a cloud storage service.
3. Edit: This is the process of modifying the captured image to enhance its
appearance or achieve a specific effect.
4. Display: The final step is to display the image, which can be done on a
computer screen, a printed document, or other output devices.
The way you can use to capture a digital image
Analog Image Capture:
 Film photography: Traditional method using film cameras to capture
images.
o Requires developing and printing the film to view the images.
 o Offers a unique aesthetic and quality.

Digital Image Capture:

 Digital cameras: Use sensors to capture light and store it as digital data.
o Instantaneous viewing and editing.
o High-quality images with a wide range of features.

Key Differences:
 Storage: Analog images are stored on physical film, while digital images are
stored electronically.
 Editing: Digital images can be easily edited and manipulated, while analog
images require physical alterations.
 Accessibility: Digital images are more accessible and can be shared and
viewed easily.
There are many ways to save images, depending on your needs and preferences.
Here are some common methods:
1. Save as a file:
  This is the most common method, and it allows you to save the image as a
file on your computer or other device.
 Common image file formats include JPEG, PNG, GIF, and TIFF.
2. Print the image:
 You can print the image on paper using a printer. This is a good option if you
want a physical copy of the image.
3. Save the image online:
 You can upload the image to a cloud storage service, such as Google Drive
or Dropbox, or to a social media platform. This allows you to access the
image from anywhere with an internet connection.
4. Save the image to a USB drive or other external storage device:
 This is a good option if you want to have a physical backup of the image.
5. Take a screenshot of the image:
 If the image is on a screen, you can take a screenshot to capture it as a
digital image.
6. Capture Images on a computer using a scanner:
1. Connect your scanner to your computer, and then turn on your scanner.
2. In the Image Capture app on your Mac, select your scanner in the Devices
or Shared list. If you don't see your scanner in the list, see Set up a scanner.
3. Scan your images.
Set scanning parameters/limit
1. Resolution
2. File format
3. Color profile
The best way to save an image depends on your specific needs and the purpose
of the image. For example, if you need to edit the image later, you may want to
save it as a high-quality file format like TIFF. If you just want to share the image
with others, you may want to save it as a JPEG or upload it to a social media
platform.
Here are some additional tips for saving images:
 Choose a high-quality file format: If you need to edit or print the image,
choose a lossless format like TIFF or PNG. If you are sharing the image
online, a lossy format like JPEG may be sufficient.
 Save the image in a high resolution: If you need to print the image or view
it on a large screen, save it in a high resolution.
 Add descriptive file names: This will help you find the image later.
 Back up your images: Make sure to back up your images to prevent data
loss.