Poster advertising is the oldest form of advertising. Having been introduced in the 1800's, it has gone through a variety of changes and styles, according to technology available at the time. Ranging from political messages through to advertisements for deodorant, the sheer variety of uses for posters makes it the most versatile and useful tool in a marketers arsenal.
Creating an eye-catching poster isn't as easy as you would think, there is composition, colours, type, imagery... it can all seem quite daunting to the amateur designer, but fear not, have a read of our useful tips to help you achieve the design you are looking for.
Layout
Figure out what you are trying to communicate to the viewer, and make it your goal that this message is the first thing that the viewer lays eyes on. A great layout is essential in making a poster that catches the eye of the person walking past, but also allows them to quickly read it and interpret what the poster is actually about.
A good hierarchy is important, your key message should be at the forefront, whilst your less important details such as contact details and small print should be in smaller print. The idea is to have 3 or less points of viewing:
Main Message
Sub Message
Information
Utilising this layout and using only 3 points of interest allows information to be transferred in a very short amount of time, quickly and effectively delivering your message.
Images & Text
Once you have established your content and layout of your poster, you are ready for print. But just because you THINK you are ready for print, does not mean you are! Ensure images are around 300 DPI, and if you are using non-photographic images such as shapes or patterns, ensure they are vectorised, this will allow them to be inflated to whatever size required without the loss of quality. Text should always be outlined or expanded, this means when you send it off to us to get printed, we don't have to worry about downloading the font you used!
Sizes & Materials
Posters can be printed in a variety of sizes depending on your needs. The best average size for a poster is A1, although we have the capability to print up to 1600mm wide! It all depends on your situation.
The most commonly used paper is 200GSM Gloss Poster Paper. This material is exceptionally good at absorbing inks, allowing a vivid print with excellent details. The gloss finish on the paper creates a beautiful shine, allowing images and colours to pop off the page. Lower quality papers can be used, such as 170GSM Matte, which although still keeping good quality, tends to dull the colours a bit more than gloss.
Where Are Posters Used?
Posters are used everywhere. Have a night out, go for a walk to the shops, take a drive or even visit the bathroom in your local and you’ll see probably see posters. Typical poster locations include:
Billboards
Hoardings
Shop windows and interiors
Bars, clubs and restaurants
Business premises
Event and concert venues
The great thing about poster advertising is that people see posters whether they want to or not. They don’t have to open a magazine or turn on the television. Posters are already there all around us.
Those were our tips for creating a great poster! Ensuring you have a great layout, paired with high-quality images and text, printed on our amazing 200GSM paper will help you get noticed!