Is it a Font or a Typeface, We Need To Know!

Premium members; the first chapter of my book drops today, and Legacy Assignment Twenty Two: Cosmetics

Madrid, New Mexico. Photo by me....

Welcome to In The Frame.

This is Thursday’s newsletter, delivered a day late because why else would we put so much time and effort into creating a working schedule if we couldn’t blow it the first week? Yay me!

Welcome everyone. So glad you are following along. As many of you know, I am doubling down on creative skill sets. I have had so many conversations this week that I am busting with info - info I will share with you, of course. My mentor has me running ragged, but then that is what a good mentor does.

---

The Creative Class is ready for you to enroll, should you like to. It will help take you out of the ups and downs of the gig rollercoaster, and help you see a smoother, more steady track ahead. As visual marketing becomes more and more important, you have the ability to be at the epicenter of the big bang of creativity headed our way.

Your In The Frame Code gives you a $120 Discount off the full price. Be sure to follow the instructions and enter the code before you hit submit.

We will either be in the middle of it, or in its way. Just sayin’…

Use this code for a savings of $120 off of the Creator Edition: ADE1490DAA
This is a lifetime membership. The site will grow every week, and you will be able to use it as an amazing resource.

And if you want to join the Cohort Group - weekly live meetings - use this code: A62D0FA46D This is also a lifetime membership (Creator after one year).

---

Choosing Typefaces? Yep, We've Gotta Do That

More and more, we are having to do a little design work. Whether for our own marketing materials or for client pieces like presentations and IG stories.

We all have to get used to working with type these days, and there are so many to choose from that it can seem overwhelming.

Or is there…?

First - a quick reminder that a typeface is like the family name, and a font is a member of the family.

Garamond is a typeface, while Garamond Bold is a font.

Too many people mix them up, and it can sound amateurish, so now you won’t sound like a type amateur like that guy over there.

But here’s a secret. For most of us, only a handful of good typefaces are needed.

6 Essential Fonts for the Modern Designer

In the vast universe of typefaces, where design choices can be overwhelming, I've distilled my toolkit down to six fonts that power 95% of my work. Here's my shortlist, each selected for its timeless appeal, versatility, and ability to bring clarity and style to every project:

1. Grotesk: A perfect balance of clean lines and character. The contemporary edge it brings is second to none.

2. Eras: Its dynamic design is both modern and adaptable, lending an understated elegance to any project.

3. Helvetica: The quintessential sans-serif. It's no surprise that it remains a favorite for designers globally. Its neutral tone and impeccable design mean it can fit seamlessly into almost any project.

4. Garamond: A serif font that is both classic and readable. Its enduring elegance brings a touch of tradition, ensuring content is not just read but felt.

5. Bodoni: With its contrasting thick and thin strokes, Bodoni offers an unparalleled touch of sophistication. It's the font of choice when the project calls for high impact and refined presence.

6. Futura: A geometric masterpiece. Futura’s modern aesthetics and symmetrically round shapes make it a favorite for headlines and logos.

🔸 Bonus: Times New Roman. While often seen as the default, there’s no denying its timeless quality and its ability to lend authority and tradition to any written piece.

🔸 🔸 Double Bonus: Butler. I particularly love this typeface, and it has a full family from ultra-light to bold. It is also a delicate serif.

🔸 🔸 🔸 Triple Bonus: Arial. Arial has several typefaces associated with it: Arial, Arial Neue, and more. This would be a similar san-serif choice to Helvetica.

Being a typeface minimalist doesn’t mean limiting creativity. On the contrary, it's about mastering the tools at hand.

If you focus on these select fonts for texts and most of what you do, I ensure that my designs remain consistent, clean, and effective.

NOTE: In the world of Display Type there are vast numbers, but they are only for standing out in a design, becoming a ‘character’ letter or word, and should be used sparingly, and only for effect.

---

For premium members, we will be dropping chapter one of my business book, Dare To Succeed. One chapter per week is coming your way. I am totally open to discussing anything you would like; just drop me a note.

Consider supporting In The Frame by becoming a paid member.