“
I enjoyed Martin's teaching style but found the collaborative process between illustrator and designer enlightening.
"WHat Am I missing?"
You might be good at using design applications like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign — the 'how.’ It is now time to learn the elusive side of graphic design, beyond skills — the 'why.’
The secret ingredient that can elevate your work is Graphic Design Theory. It’s the 'why' behind every decision you make as a graphic designer. It is the key to make a lasting visual impact on your audience.
The Graphic Design Theory Series was made to help you evolve from a mere user of design applications to a true expert of effective visual communication. The knowledge you can acquire here will help you whether you are a seasoned creative professional or just starting out as a graphic designer, and it will serve you for the rest of your life.
You might be good at using design applications like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign — the 'how.’ It is now time to learn the elusive side of graphic design, beyond skills — the 'why.’
The secret ingredient that can elevate your work is Graphic Design Theory. It’s the 'why' behind every decision you make as a graphic designer. It is the key to make a lasting visual impact on your audience.
The Graphic Design Theory Series was made to help you evolve from a mere user of design applications to a true expert of effective visual communication. The knowledge you can acquire here will help you whether you are a seasoned creative professional or just starting out as a graphic designer, and it will serve you for the rest of your life.
Control the balance, rhythm and visual hierarchy to amaze your clients
This course will give you the knowledge to always make the right choices and make every single project a success.
You will clearly understand how to use focal points, proportions, contrast, colors, harmony, and rhythm—every element to create the exact effect you want for your viewers.
Learn how people react to visuals, what they find appealing, what grabs their attention and what will motivate them to buy or make a decision.
The most in-depth resource
What makes learning about design theory so difficult is not only that it is a vast subject, but that everything is related.
This is why I worked for more than a year on this series, creating the most extensive library on graphic design theory you will ever find, explained in a clear, to-the-point and practical way.
Within the course, there are about 100 creative exercises, with more than 80 inspiration boards. We also cover over 500 definitions and analyze more than 1000 design examples.
You can also test your knowledge with analysis worksheets, term glossaries and quizzes.
12
courses
100+
exercises
500+
terms
1000+
references
Training series, handbook or resource library — your choice!
The most unique feature of the Graphic Design Theory Series is that you can pick any lesson from any of the 12 courses and it will make sense on its own. You don't have to watch the lessons in any particular order.
You can use this vast resource of knowledge as your own graphic design theory library, where you will always find answers and inspiration whenever you feel stuck with a creative project.
Boost your confidence by understanding how to make engaging, clear and effective compositions and learn the language of design in order to communicate with clients, printers, developers and other creative professionals.
Liam C. Kelley
I've taken courses from Lynda, Skillshare, etc. and know my way around the various Adobe products. However, I am really learning a ton from Martin. Even when I watch basic videos like "drawing" in Illustrator, I find myself saying "Oh! I did not know that!!" This series is very well designed, and Martin is an excellent educator.
Whether you are starting out or want to make sure that you are really getting everything you can out of Adobe products, this is a great place to do it. Yes, Martin has a lot of stuff on YouTube, but the information in this series is structured and organized, so you can clearly progress and learn skills in an efficient manner.
Main topics we cover in this series:
Color & Contrast
Hue, chroma, saturation, value, tone, shade, tint, color spaces, color wheel, color temperature, meanings of colors, color harmonies, perception of color, color blindness, types of contrast, etc.
typography
Type anatomy, pairing fonts, legibility, readability, alignment, justification, ligatures, calligraphy, handlettering, leading, tracking, kerning, rags & rivers, orphans & widows, using text for visual interest, etc.
psychology of design
Gestalt principles: closure, continuity, figure-ground, common fate, simplicity, symmetry, past experience, similarity, uniform connectedness, common regions, proximity, etc.
unity & harmony
Repetition, consistency, visual tempo, random rhythm, alternating rhythm, flowing rhythm, progressive rhythm, variety, framing, pattern, motif, grouping, containers, holding devices, etc.
space
Depth, overlap, overlay, shape, form, texture, perspective, leading lines, negative space, white space, proximity, foreshortening, implied space, vanishing point, volume, micro/macro space, etc.
composition & layout
Rule of thirds, golden ratio, golden spiral, direction, flow, silhouette, contour, outline, profile, line, tangent, reading gravity, primary optical area, open/closed composition, masthead, running head, etc.
balance
Visual weight, reflectional symmetry, radial symmetry, asymmetry, alignment, modular grids, spatial zones, colum grids, baseline grid, optical movement, medium disturbance, illusory motion, orientation, viewpoint, etc.
hierarchy
Focal point, entry point, information prioritization, dominance, emphasis, scale, position, proportion, exaggeration, propositional density, accent color, deep propositon, etc.
process of design
Stages of creative process, tools of the trade, creative brief, contract, research, moodboards, sketching, brainstorming, ideation, mind maps, presentation, client feedback, iteraton, delivery, design contests, creative portfolio, etc.
print design
Resolution, color separation, bleed, offset printing, digital printing, screen printing, foil stamping, coating, embossing, bindery, paper types, color management, logo design, brochures, posters, editorial design, packaging, etc.
web & digital design
Navigation, usability, file formats, screen sizes, responsive design, UX/UI design, app design, design systems, icon design, banner ads, social media design, digital publishing, motion design, AR & VR, etc.
graphic Design theory series
Available as a bundle for single purchase:
or access with our
PLUS Membership
MONTHLY
subscription
Real design projects with feedback from the instructor? That is our Pro Membership for just $67/month!
Nunzia Terminiello
When I started this series three months ago, I had no experience in Graphic Design but thanks to Martin’s lessons and his advice, I’ve really learnt a lot. All the lessons are well organised and clearly explained and this has definitely given me confidence of developing the skills I needed.
Besides, I love the fact that he dedicates his time to review our works and gives a lot of precious insights. I’m really happy to be part of this group!
creatives, artists, bloggers, marketers -
PROFESSIONALs & HOBBYISTS
alike
who would benefit the most by learning Design Theory
This training series is a perfect fit for any field where visual communication and aesthetic harmony are important.
For graphic designers in particular, this knowledge will begin to elevate everything you already do well, making your workflow more enjoyable and your end result much more satisfying. This course will suit you if:
The Graphic Design Theory Series is available as a single bundle purchase with Lifetime Access to all chapters. It is also included in our Plus and Pro Memberships.
Plus Membership
Access to all of our MasterClasses and Theory series
$35/ month
Included in the Plus Membership
* These Applications have both a desktop and iPad version with seperate MasterClasses for each
Single purchase
Lifetime access to the entire
Graphic Design Theory Series
$197
What you will get
30 Days Money Back Guarantee
We want you to get the most from your learning experience with Yes I'm a Designer. However, if you change your mind for whatever reason, we offer a full refund within 30 days of purchase. Just get in touch with us so we can either help you get the results you need or give you a swift refund.
(We cannot process refunds to students who have completed more than 10% of any selected course.)
“
This course was easy to undrstand for begginers like me, it was informational, really liked the arrangement of topics. To sum up it was valuable to study here!
Tamari Kapanadze
Which Membership is the best for me?
Please keep in mind that the Theory MasterClass Series is only available in the Plus and Pro tier.
Features | $19 / month | $35 / month | $67 / month $670 / year | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Access to the Graphic Design Starter Bootcamp & Starter CommunityThe Bootcamp is a 3-months-long guided learning program for beginner students or hobbyist designers with fun projects and a supportive community of like-minded students. | ||||
Certification for each completed courseBoth Martin (graphic design) and Ozgur (motion graphics) are renowned masters of their field, and among the best Adobe Certified Instructors globally. You will get a signed certificate for each course you complete. | ||||
Quizzes, downloadable exercise files & resourcesTest your knowledge by taking quizzes and practice everything you learn with structured exercises and useful training materials. | ||||
Creative communityBe inspired by joining a thriving community of creative spirits. Share your work to get valuable feedback from fellow students. | ||||
All our MasterClasses and the | N/A | |||
Access our entire course libraryIn addition to our Masterclasses, you will have access to project-based courses such as the Character Design course or the 365 Days of Creativity, which help more experienced students improve their portfolios and create stunning design pieces. | N/A | N/A | ||
Creative projects with personalised feedbackChoose from various Career Paths like (Graphic Design, Illustration, UX & Web Design, Logo etc.) and get monthly feedback and guidance on your work from us. | N/A | N/A | ||
Interactive webinars and priority supportTake part in monthly live events and speak with Martin and his team of creative professionals. | N/A | N/A | ||
Start Your Membership now ❯ | $19 / month | $35 / month | $67 / month $670 / year | |
What our students say
“
A well-constructed set of information with highly engaging examples and excellent practice material at hand to reinforce the presented learning material. Very clear and a great talking speed with excellent clarity. Well done Martin. Looking forward to your other material with great confidence and enthusiasm.
George Villios
“
Professional and engaging course. Some of the tips were a review for me, as I took many classes with Adobe products back in college. More of the newer features were of great value to me, as well as getting a refresher on some shortcuts and less used features such as 3D or video. Quizzes were a great way to make sure I got all the content too.
Desiree
“
The Yes I'm a Designer program is a MUST for designers looking to up-level their skills. The courses are broken down into bite-sized videos that are super easy to follow and Martin shares all kinds of cool tips along the way. I would definitely recommend these courses to anyone who's either looking to become a designer or a designer who's looking to up their game in a competitive industry.
Sarah
“
Yes I'm a Designer is one of the most recommendable courses I have ever seen. I am becoming a professional graphic designer after following all the master class courses here and completing other supportive courses. I enjoyed a lot while studying. What an amazing lecturer he is. I feel that Martin transformed me to a totally new profession through his course series and the continuous guides updating our knowledge upfront. I will be a pro-member for lifetime in YES I'M A DESIGNER in my future journey. Cheers..!!!!
Chinthaka Prasanna
“
I know I'm only in week 1. But I have done more with photoshop this week than ever done previously. And I never thought I would grasp the essentials of indesign and illustrator as quickly as I have (because I have never used them before). Martin is a fabulous instructor. I was wary about taking the 'design' step. I am so glad I have - after this week I am A LOT more confident of smashing this. Amazing Martin - thank you!
Emma
“
Martin and his team are incredible. I'm new to graphic design, and on this self-taught journey it feels key to have skilled, trustworthy teachers and mentors. I'm so grateful to have found this with Yes I'm A Designer. Martin and his team are so supportive while also being constructive in their feedback, and this has been invaluable for me. As well, their courses and tutorials are amazing - full of trustworthy approaches and techniques that I feel confident are the best habits for me to create. I cannot recommend them more highly for beginners or those more experienced alike. Thank you guys so much for everything you do!!!
Sarah
“
I give you five stars for your exceptional work in teaching. It would be more beneficial if your education in videos has closed captioning for deaf individuals like me. Thank you so much for teaching us how to create incredible graphic designs! I enjoy it tremendously.
Cynthia
“
YES are an amazing company that can help absolute novices or, as in my case, recent graduates. Having learned the basics of design, I was astonished about how much more there was to learn. YES give you so many projects and exercises to put what you learn into practice and the feedback is always helpful. You won’t be disappointed if you sign up.
Graham
“
The Yes I’m a designer team are hands on, very professional, talented and down to earth individuals. I have already completed quite a few courses of theirs through udemy and skillshare. I have now gained enough confidence so I’ve enrolled as a student and already can see how I’m about to have a great journey as a Yes Pro Student. I already feel that the monthly fee will be worth every single penny. The Facebook group is friendly and full of talent and the webinars are great to watch. Looking forward to being more involved soon.
T.j. Jane Jezard-Green
“
I took Ill and InD courses and was pleased with the presentation. It covered all of the new stuff as well as the old and really helped make me feel like I had a handle of everything. I used to go through the physical manual back in the day to get that same feeling of having covered everything.
Eric
Some of the brands learning from our courses
Find out more about our other Membership options:
Are you a beginner and Want to
learn for free first?
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More experienced?
Martin hosting a Behance Portfolio Review
Meet Your Instructor...
Martin Perhiniak
Martin is a graphic designer, illustrator and an Adobe Certified Instructor. He was recently voted one of the Top 10 Adobe Instructors in the World.
Before launching Yes I'm a Designer, Martin worked as a designer for Pixar, BBC, Mattel and Accenture, and taught teams at Transport for London, Google, Ben & Jerry's and Oxford University Press.
Martin regularly speaks at industry events; most recently Adobe MAX, the ultimate creative conference.
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