TLDR;
This video outlines five common logo design mistakes and provides actionable advice for designers. The key takeaways include the importance of starting logo design in black and white, avoiding overcomplicated designs, creating versatile combination marks, sketching ideas on paper before using design software, and generating a wide range of initial concepts.
- Start logo design in black and white to focus on form.
- Avoid overcomplicated logos that obscure the brand's message.
- Create combination marks for versatile logo usage.
- Sketch ideas on paper before using design software to encourage creativity.
- Generate at least 20 different logo concepts before finalizing a design.
Intro [0:00]
Anik Jain introduces the video's focus on five logo design mistakes that designers should avoid. He emphasizes the video's relevance for graphic designers, freelancers, students, and those working in companies involved in logo design. Anik shares his experience as a logo designer and design agency owner, encouraging viewers to watch until the end to learn how to avoid these common pitfalls.
Mistake 1: Designing in Colour First [0:28]
The first mistake is designing a logo in color first. It's better to begin in black and white to focus on the logo's construction, shape, and mark without color biases. A logo that works in black and white is more versatile and scalable, suitable for various applications like favicons, billboards, prints, textures, and engravings.
Mistake 2: Overcomplicated Logos [1:15]
The second mistake is creating overcomplicated logos. A logo represents a brand but isn't the brand itself, so it shouldn't be cluttered with elements that detail the business. Simple logos are often the most effective, though complex logos can work if they follow design principles. Striking a balance between detail and clarity is crucial for a recognizable and impactful logo.
Mistake 3: Not Having a Combination Mark [2:13]
The third mistake is not having a combination mark. A combination mark combines a logo type (brand name) with a logo mark (icon). Designers should create different combination marks to suit various applications. For example, a website logo might have the logo mark to the left of the logo type, while a business card might have the logo mark above the logo type to optimize space.
Mistake 4: Following Trends Blindly [2:57]
The fourth mistake is directly starting on design software like Illustrator. Instead, designers should begin with pen and paper to explore ideas freely. Sketching allows for more control over ideation without being limited by software constraints. Imperfect sketches encourage more iterations, leading to unique and innovative ideas. Using a pen instead of a pencil prevents erasing ideas, fostering out-of-the-box thinking.
Mistake 5: Skipping Scalability Tests [4:08]
The fifth mistake is stopping after creating only a few concepts. Designers should aim to generate at least 20 different logo concepts before using design software. The first few ideas are often generic and easily found online. Pushing beyond these initial concepts leads to more unique and brand-fitting designs.
Final Thoughts [5:11]
Anik Jain summarizes the five logo design mistakes and encourages viewers to share their thoughts and experiences in the comments. He also teases the possibility of creating a part two if there is enough interest.