504 - Type in Context - Introduction of Grids

Through the introduction of grids I plan to refine my layouts, giving me space to experiment if I so need it. However I am very aware that photobooks do not necessarily require a grid set up due to their simplicity, I am going to initially make use of one to keep options open and ensure exact layouts; The aim of the grid will be to keep the type based sections consistent with eachother and the same goes for two photography based sections. First of all I looked at the last and largest section of the book: A-Z Type in Context, to start developing a layout and page flow which can be replicated similarly in the City Pics section. 

A simple 4x5 grid seemed appropriate to help centralise the images, but also provide a guide for how far out the single image spreads are placed. I used 5mm wide gutters to keep it broken up evenly with regards to the wide margins.

I began ordering the images A-Z, with a few letters often having more than one image example to really highlight the contrast of type. I really liked the sequence of having two doubled up and centralised image spreads, followed by a single image spread featuring a larger scale photograph. Some of my images did feel alot more attractive than others so I really tried to get the ordering to allow my favourites to fall on the larger scale image spread. This proved challenging with the irregular number of photographs, especially with some letters doubled up. 
Having the images set central seemed an obvious layout response for a photography book, but this is what I want. It is the diversity and depth which the images provoke which is what communicates the message of Belgrade, rather than the layout; and following that minimal, but typical photobook style is what keeps it in that category of publications, as the experimental cover ideas I am having could sway that view. I want the viewers eyes to easily be able to navigate through systematically, with each type based section providing more context to what they are seeing.



















It was another regular stop off at Village Bookstore whilst in town, which inspired me to confirm this layout justification. Looking at a few of the hardback photobooks really exaggerated to me how it is a simple layout in photobooks which can draw the most attention. Too complicated can draw away from the images themselves. The first example beneath is 'Lotus' by Max Pinckers, which similar to my layout, features this basic set up of images on the page. It is the rest of the bookbinding and craft of the book around the simple set up of the images which can add to the whole effect and purpose of the book. 

And it was the second publication I looked at which really got me inspired by making use of full bleed imagery on every page, to really enhance the image and the messages and stories within it. This is definitely something I want to look into experimenting with, perhaps instead of the top-left flushed single image spreads I expand it and make it completely full bleed?!