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And how you can apply them to
your social images for
maximum effect
The 4 Rules of
Balance Designers
Live By

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A degree of balance is at the heart of every successful
image and can’t be ignored.
A balanced composition feels right. It feels stable and
aesthetically pleasing.
When a composition is visually balanced, every part of it
holds some interest, which keeps your viewers engaged
with your design.
Read on to find out how to achieve balance in your
designs and create social content that engages.
Why Visual Balance is Important

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The 4 Principles of Balance for Images in Social Media
• Symmetrical balance
• Asymmetrical balance
• Radial balance
• Mosaic balance

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1. Symmetrical Balance

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Symmetrical balance can be described as having
equal "weight" on equal sides of a central axis.
This axis can be in any direction although it is
often horizontal or vertical.
Everything on one side of the axis is mirrored on
the other. When the elements are arranged
equally on either side of a central axis, the result
is bilateral symmetry but symmetry can occur
across multiple axes at the same time.
By using symmetry your social images will seen as
beautiful, harmonised and professional.
Symmetrical Balance

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2. Asymmetrical Balance

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Asymmetrical balance involves the placement of
objects in a way that will allow objects of varying
visual weight to balance one another around a
central point.
The more complex relationships between elements
often makes asymmetry more interesting than
symmetry, and is useful for drawing attention.
Contrast symmetry and asymmetry in your social
compositions to attract the viewer.
The factors that affect visual weight include:
• Size
• Value (light/dark)
• Colour
• Texture
• Quantity
• Isolation
• Orientation
Asymmetrical Balance

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3. Radial Balance

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In radial balance, elements extend out (in a circular
shape) from one core central point.
Stars, the iris around each pupil of your eyes, a
wheel with spokes and many plant forms are
examples of radial balance.
If you’re looking to create a strong focal point in
your social image, radial balance is an effective
technique because your eyes are naturally
drawn inwards to the centre of your image.
Radial Balance

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4. Crystallographic Balance

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Also known as mosaic or “allover” balance,
crystallographic balance is about repetition.
Repetition and consistency are major design
principles, and by evenly repeating elements
with equal weight throughout the design, it
actually creates a sense of balance.
Whilst at first images employing crystallographic
balance may seem chaotic, the lack of visual
hierarchy actually works very well.
This form of visual design is aesthetically pleasing
and intriguing to those who view it.
Crystallographic Balance

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I hope you’ve enjoyed this series.
You’ll now have more control over
the visual communication in your
designs, eventually leading to
greater impact and better social
results.
Thanks!