How to Design With Only One Picture

How many pictures did you use the last time you designed something? I'm guessing your answer is mostly likely to be... more than one.

When we design, we normally like to have as much resources as possible, whether it be images or text, so we can choose the best ones to incorporate into the design.

But what if you were only given one image? What if you were in a hurry and could only find one image?

Here are two quick methods that will save you both time and brain battery designing a professional-looking design.


1. Split the picture

Yes, you only have one picture to use, But there's no law against splitting the image, is there? In fact, splitting the image will make your design more harmonious and consistent, as the colours will all be compatible. And consequently, you will have an easier time choosing your colour palette. Let me show you the effects.

orange tuesday

Original Image

Split images

It's not perfect, but you get the idea. The split images don't have to be stacked on one side. They can be placed in text, etc. as well.

2. Use as background

Using a image as the background can often be seen in magazines. E.g.

jurvetson

Jennifer Su

It is very effective as long the image and the text contrast. So the image has to have an area where the colour(s) are similar, so the text will be clear and can be read easily.

And... that's it!
Do you have any tips for designing with only one image as well? If so, please share!~