How To Create a Logo
As far back as the 1800’s the earliest logos were nothing more than a distinctive mark or a symbol to show who the maker of the product was. Logos in the Victorian era became more complex, and the beginnings of the first logos were established by business owners. Fast forward 200 years later, The modern day logo is simple, flexible, and adaptable to any kind of media and is a representation of their company.
To create an effective logo, there are several tips to keep in mind. Use Double Meanings. A logo can have more than one meaning to present a clever interpretation of an idea. Viewers love the mind games that a logo presents and are bound to appreciate it more because of it. A good color palette brings meaning and communicates ideas. A good logo is versatile and should still function well in black and white. Avoid Cliches. New fads come into logo design every couple of years. Do not jump the bandwagon when designers are using the same design over and over again. Think of a design that you thought of yourself. Strive for a logo that is uniquely recognizable. Think to yourself if your design is generic or unique and will others produce a logo that is similar to yours? Custom type helps ensure that your unique logo will stay that way. It shows your clients that you put effort into designing custom logos.Keep it simple, stupid simple! Simple but powerful logos spread through the business world and always prove to be the best icons for standing the test of time. A well balanced logo includes proportion and symmetry along with curves and arcs. Utilize negative space in a logo in a clever way. This goes along with the idea of a double entendre. The Negative space is a subtle touch. Add motion to a logo if it is possible and makes sense, it can boost the logo’s standpoint both visually and conceptually. A good logo has a good story. Logos are filled with meaning, both obvious and hidden. Clients love to see how much thought and reasoning went into the logo. Provide a logo that ties into the company’s core values and mission.
Simplicity makes a logo design easily recognizable, versatile and memorable without being “overdrawn.” An effective logo design should be memorable, which is achieved by keeping it simple yet appropriate. An effective logo should be timeless and should still be effective in 10-50 years.
Logos should be designed in vector format to ensure they scale to any size. They should work across a variety of media and applications. Start it in black and white to focus on concept and shape, and be mindful of colors, the more colors you use, the more expensive it will become. The logo should be appropriate for its intended audience.