Using Fonts Why do we need to consider fonts? Make it as easy
as possible for the user to read the textual content of a page To
convey feelings
Slide 3
Using Fonts Formal definitions: A typeface: an artistic
represen- tation of the characters, etc in the alphabet A font: A
typeface in a given size However, terms are used interchangeably in
digital publishing
Slide 4
Using Fonts Size of fonts is traditionally measured in points
Not quite a standard measure most common definition is 1 point =
1/72 inch 0.35 mm More rarely used is pica = 12 points 1:1 match
with older screen resolutions (72dpi)
Slide 5
Using Fonts Another important component is the space between
subsequent lines Often calling leading 12 pt. font 18 pt.
leading
Slide 6
Using Fonts Two main families of fonts Serif (with feet), aka
Antikva Sans Serif (without feet), aka Grotesque
Slide 7
Using Fonts Serif font are considered traditional fonts Times
(new) Roman Purpose of Serifs (feet) to lead the eye by creating an
imaginary line Debated Hello there
Slide 8
Using Fonts Sans Serif fonts (like this) have traditionally
been used for short text, e.g. headlines Are now generally accepted
as the best choice for text on screen Argument: Serifs tend to
smear on screens with traditional resolution (72 dpi) Argument may
outdate as screen resolutions improve
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Using Fonts Choosing the right font for the job Make sure the
content is readable Choose fonts that match the general theme of
the wesbite
Slide 10
Using Fonts Make sure the content of a page is readable The
longer the text, the more neutral the choice of font For large
bodies of text, stick with a variant of the main- stream Sans Serif
fonts For short texts like headlines, more freedom
Slide 11
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where we will enjoy miles and miles of crystal white alpine slopes,
while the vibrant after-ski party life awaits us when darkness
falls. Book your ticket at Ski n Fun today!
Slide 12
Ski n Fun Come with us to the famous resort of Val Disere,
where we will enjoy miles and miles of crystal white alpine slopes,
while the vibrant after-ski party life awaits us when darkness
falls. Book your ticket at Ski n Fun today!
Slide 13
Ski n Fun Come with us to the famous resort of Val Disere,
where we will enjoy miles and miles of crystal white alpine slopes,
while the vibrant after-ski party life awaits us when darkness
falls. Book your ticket at Ski n Fun today!
Slide 14
Using Fonts The big question how do we pick a font, that
matches a certain theme or feeling? When is a font elegant When is
a font funny When is a font scary No firm rules, use your common
sense, and observe what others have done and test your choice
(usability)!
Slide 15
Using Fonts www.fontco.com
Slide 16
Using Fonts What about font size? Books keep lines of text
short (10 cm), to avoid reading fatigue Modern screens are 30-40 cm
wide Should we mimic book layout by using larger fonts? Screen
geometry fundamentally different
Slide 17
Using Fonts
Slide 18
General tips on font size Users like larger fonts than
designers do Use leading to increase readability good choices are
10/12 and 12/14 Ideally; design to allow the user to change the
font size, screen geometry, etc (responsive design) However, the
far majority of users cannot be bothered to change default
settings