The smallest details often reveal greatness in logo design. Paying attention to these details can elevate your branding and ensure your logo looks professional across all platforms. One overlooked issue many brands face is the Irradiation Phenomenon in logo design.
Most people assume you only need to create a white or light-colored version of your logo so it can sit neatly on a dark background. However, there’s a subtle problem. A white or light logo on a dark background tends to appear visually “fatter,” even when the dimensions are exactly the same as the original design. This optical illusion—known as the Irradiation Phenomenon—can make your logo look inconsistent and unpolished.
It is an optical illusion called Irradiation Phenomenon.
So, how do you fix the Irradiation Phenomenon in logo design?
The solution is surprisingly simple but requires precision. When creating a version of your logo for dark-colored backgrounds, add a thin stroke around the logo. Then, expand the shape and subtract the stroke. By doing this, you ensure that the logo appears visually equal when compared side by side with its version on a light background.
Remember, small adjustments can make a big difference. Keep this technique in mind whenever you create alternate logo versions, and you’ll avoid the common pitfalls caused by the Irradiation Phenomenon.
For more insights like this, check out our other graphic design blog posts and discover practical ways to improve your branding and marketing materials.
