GCD61204 Digital Photography and Imaging - Project 1A & 1B Collage Design

30.4.2026 - 21.5.2026 (Week 2 - Week 5)
Bachelor of Fashion Design Technology (Honours) 
GCD61204 Digital Photography and Imaging
Project 1 : Collage

Table of Content
1. Lecture
2. Instruction (include MIB)
3. Process work
4. Feedback
5. Reflection

LECTURES



INSTRUCTION


PROJECT 1A
PROCESS: 

PRE-COMPOSITION 1 - IDENTITY




PRE-COMPOSITION 2 - SHIFT IN MOTION




PRE-COMPOSITION 3 - TRASITION


I started gathering images from fashion magazine ,along with typography, and accessories that are align with modern editorial style. I selected a main figure as the focal point and experimented with different layouts using the same elements.

For the first composition, I focused on a balanced and structured arrangement. For the second composition, I explored a more asymmetrical layout with stronger movement and contrast. For the third composition, I arranged the elements in a more organised and framed composition.

After experimenting with placement, spacing, overlap, and scale, I refined the second composition by adjusting the hierarchy and spacing between the typography, perfume to improve the visual flow.

FEEDBACK

1. The composition has a clean and balanced editorial layout with a strong central focal point. The neutral colour palette creates a sophisticated fashion magazine aesthetic. However, the arrangement feels slightly static because most elements are evenly distributed around the figure. The composition could be improved with stronger movement, layering, and variation in placement to create more visual energy.

2.  This composition has the strongest visual movement and contrast among the three designs. The asymmetrical arrangement creates a more dynamic and modern editorial feel. The red perfume acts as an effective focal accent and strengthens the visual hierarchy. The overlapping typography and varied spacing create better depth and movement. Minor adjustments to spacing near the lower section could improve balance and prevent the elements from feeling crowded.

3.  The composition feels more organised and structured, with elements framing the main figure effectively. The layout creates a steady visual flow and maintains balance throughout the design. However, compared to the second composition, the movement and contrast are less dynamic. Some elements appear more decorative rather than contributing strongly to the concept, and the visual hierarchy could be enhanced further through stronger directional flow and spacing.

FINAL


Title: Shift in Motion
Description:
This collage presents a more dynamic fashion identity through an asymmetrical editorial layout.
The central figure as the main focus, while surrounding elements are arranged with more
variation and overlap. The addition of bold elements and contrast, such as the red perfume,
creates a stronger visual impact. The composition feels more energetic while still maintaining
fashion aesthetic.

Concept Ideas:
The idea behind this collage is that fashion identity is constantly changing and evolving. The red
perfume symbolizes intensity and attention, highlighting moments of transformation.
Typography to reflect the influence of fashion media, showing how style and identity are shaped
over time.

Composition:
This collage uses asymmetrical balance, with the main anchor shifted and supporting elements
arranged unevenly to create movement. Overlapping elements add depth, while contrast in colour
and scale enhances visual interest.

Visual Hierarchy:
The strong contrast element draws attention first, then guides the eye back to the central figure,
while typography connects the overall collage.
• Primary: Central figure
• Secondary: Red perfume and watch
• Tertiary: Typography elements

REFLECTION

Through this project, I learned that composition is not only about placing images together, but also about creating movement, balance, and visual communication. Using the same elements in different layouts helped me understand how composition can completely change the feeling and meaning of a design.

I also improved my understanding of visual hierarchy, especially how contrast and spacing guide viewer’s attention. This task helped me become more confident in experimenting with editorial style collage layouts and expressing concepts visually.


PROJECT 1B
PROCESS: 

PRE-COMPOSITION 1 - 

PRE-COMPOSITION 2 - 

PRE-COMPOSITION 3 -



FEEDBACK

1.  The composition has a strong surreal atmosphere and clear visual hierarchy. The projector acts as an effective focal point, while the flowing textures create movement throughout the artwork. The fish, buildings, and human shadow figures help strengthen the concept of illusion and imagination. However, the visibility of some elements could be improved to make the focal point stand out more clearly.

2. 
The composition successfully communicates a sense of chaos and instability through the scattered elements and layered textures. The use of movement and contrast creates visual energy and supports the concept well. However, some areas appear crowded, causing certain elements to compete for attention and reducing the overall clarity of the composition.

3. 
The composition creates a calm and atmospheric mood through the use of muted colours and balanced placement of elements. The concept of emotional drifting is communicated effectively through the floating fish and contrasting backgrounds. However, the focal point is less dominant compared to the other compositions, making the visual impact slightly weaker.

CHOSEN



Title: Illusion or Reality?

Description
This digital collage shows a surreal and layered composition by combining industrial
objects, architecture, textures, and organic elements. The old film projector acts as the
main focal point, while flowing black lines create movement throughout the artwork.
The contrast between orange and black tones creates a dramatic and dreamlike
atmosphere. The small human shadow figure on the building adds a little sense of mystery
within the composition.

Concept Ideas
The collage explores the blurred boundary between reality and illusion. The projector
symbolizes storytelling and imagination, while the distorted textures and floating fish
create a surreal environment that feels unstable and uncertain.

Composition
The composition uses asymmetrical balance and diagonal movement. Flowing line
textures guide the viewer eye across the collage, while overlapping elements create
some depth and visual tension.

Visual Hierarchy
  • Primary: Old film projector
  • Secondary: Building, human shadow figures and flowing textures
  • Tertiary: Fish and smaller elements

REFLECTION

Through this project, I learned that digital collage is not just about combining different images together, but also about arranging them in a way that express an idea and emotion. By using the same images in different compositions, I was able to see how the placement, size, and layering of elements can change the vibe of a design.

I also gained more experience using Photoshop tools such as layering, masking, and blending images. This project encouraged me to experiment with different layouts and concepts while thinking about visual hierarchy and composition. Overall, it helped me feel more comfortable creating digital collages and finding different ways to express my ideas through design.