10 great tips to design like a professional

One of the best things about working in graphic design is that you can squeeze out an idea and create something new, different and unique. Nevertheless, this can sometimes turn out to be a double-edged sword, as tackling a new project from scratch is not always easy. 

Converting an idea into something tangible when you have a blank canvas in front of you can be a complicated task, especially if you’re not sure what you want to transmit with the design. And, above all, which elements and graphic resources can help you give it shape. 

But don’t worry, because at Freepik we’ve selected some of the most useful tips to design like a professional, so take note of what we’ve got to tell you below. 

1. Think about your target

You don’t even need to sit in front of a computer to follow this tip. The thing is, to design like a professional, it’s fundamental to be clear about who your message is addressed to.

So, try to get to know your target public before getting started with the design. Find out about their average age, sex or origin, but also explore their interests, tastes, lifestyle, etc., because all this information will help you focus your work and get your proposal right. 

This is one of the main differences between just any design and, as we’ll explain below, a design that really captures the heart. 

2. Don’t stress about filling everything up

We can often become obsessed with filling up all the available space with lots of graphic resources. However, one of the basic rules of composition is to treat blank spaces as another part of the design. 

Why are they so important? Because, simply by taking these spaces into account, you’ll be able to ensure that your message does not get lost among all the mayhem, in addition to giving your design style and sophistication. 

3. Limit the use of fonts

We can all agree that selecting the correct fonts is a task that takes time. It sometimes even feels like mission impossible to find one that suits your idea and, on other occasions, you find countless fonts that fit perfectly.

In the latter case, remember not to go overboard on your use of fonts. It is ideal to limit their use in a single design to three or less. 

That doesn’t mean that you can’t play and experiment with different fonts; try them out until you find those that work well together. You’ll soon see how it takes your design to the next level! 

4. Select a suitable color palette

Color is a fundamental part of a good design. So, it’s extremely important to carefully select a color palette that is in line with the message and tone that you want to transmit. 

Colors create harmony, but they also convey emotions and feelings to spectators. Colors will subconsciously arouse their interest and will also have an impact on the finished result.

5. Play with fonts

It’s one thing to limit the use of different fonts, as we mentioned above, and another is what we can do with them once selected. 

There are almost unlimited options, so let’s take a look at some tips on the best way to work with fonts:

• Play with the size and height of your text so that it fits in perfectly with the design.
• Don’t be afraid of changing the size. Large elements grab the attention of spectators and can help to emphasize the message. 
• Deal with tracking, which refers to the natural space existing between, at least, two characters of a font, like a professional.
• Use your good judgment when using the bold style to highlight what is really relevant in your design.

Ultimately, it is all about not overloading texts, but rather creating style with them. If you want some inspiration, you’re sure to find it in these font designs by Freepik. 

6. Use icons

Icons are a powerful resource to give your design a dynamic look. You can use them to simplify and shorten extensive information so that it reaches your public quickly and directly. 

You can use icons for a visual touch, for example, in contact details or in links to social media. They add value to the design and are easy to use, even more so if you bear in mind that you’ll find any icon you may need, whatever it may be, on Flaticon. There are millions!

7. Organize the different elements

Create a design that is pleasing to the eye. It’s important to organize the elements based on good judgment and hierarchy so that spectators can visualize and understand the message you want to transmit. 

Line up texts so that they are easier to read, stick to a minimum size so that no text is illegible and use a structure in which all the design elements follow their importance and consistency.  

8. Don’t shy away from simplicity

An overloaded design may look like it requires much more work by the designer, but that is simply not the case. Achieving a simple yet functional concept almost always requires a greater effort. 

That’s why it’s important not to shy away from minimalist designs, just for the fact that they look too simple. 

Practice the concept of “less is more” and you’re sure to achieve a great result. 

9. Draw inspiration from different sources

Not everything has already been invented. On the contrary! 

We all want to be original in our projects. However, it’s a good idea to take note of important sources of inspiration, artists and designers, who have set the trend with their work over the years. 

Take your time to draw inspiration from websites such as Pinterest and Freepik, where you’ll find hundreds of designs created by professionals. 

10. Add value with your style

You are unique, and so is your style. That’s why, whenever you can, it’s a good idea to add value to your design with a personal touch. 

There is no better advice for a designer than to simply be yourself!

We hope these tips will help you design like a professional and don’t forget that “practice makes perfect” 😉.