Of picturebooks : layout, typography, and format
Kulju, Essi (2020)
2020
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2020053115648
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2020053115648
Tiivistelmä
The purpose of this thesis was to study picturebooks from the viewpoints of format, typography, and layout. The term ‘picturebook’ was defined according to multiple scholars’ views. Furthermore, some classifications concerning the audience and content of picturebooks were presented. The theoretical section explored the topic via quantitative and qualitative research methods. Finnish picturebooks published in 2019 were used as research material for a quantitative study, and qualitative research was added in the form of expert interviews. In addition, books and essays were used as sources of information; Words about Pictures by Perry Nodelman (1988), and How Picturebooks Work by Maria Nikolajeva and Carole Scott (2001) being the main sources.
Methods of designing picturebook format, typography and layout found in the research material were presented and further classified to make the application of them easier. Additionally, statistics on book sizes, format, and typo-graphical choices were introduced. A personal project was conducted to apply the ideas of the theoretical part. The project included the design process of format and typography and comparisons of layout techniques.
The research suggests that there are design techniques that can be used to support the combination of narration and illustrations found in picturebooks. The choice of the format affects the usability of the book and the connection to the story. Typography needs to find a balance between good readability and visual interest, while layout offers many methods of combining the various elements found in a picturebook. This thesis considers current material in a theoretical way and offers some basic tools as to how this theory can be put into practice.
Methods of designing picturebook format, typography and layout found in the research material were presented and further classified to make the application of them easier. Additionally, statistics on book sizes, format, and typo-graphical choices were introduced. A personal project was conducted to apply the ideas of the theoretical part. The project included the design process of format and typography and comparisons of layout techniques.
The research suggests that there are design techniques that can be used to support the combination of narration and illustrations found in picturebooks. The choice of the format affects the usability of the book and the connection to the story. Typography needs to find a balance between good readability and visual interest, while layout offers many methods of combining the various elements found in a picturebook. This thesis considers current material in a theoretical way and offers some basic tools as to how this theory can be put into practice.