Illustration guidelines

Illustrations are another central visual element of our brand. They can be used when original photography does not exist or cannot be used to help tell a specific story.

Illustrations can:

• match the tone and mood of your product and be especially helpful in evoking a specific emotion or feeling;
• give a less-formal feel to a designed product;
• be generic rather than portraying specific people doing specific things;
• be used to explain an idea or concept, whether abstract or realistic;
• communicate text-based information, such as an infographic;
• be eye-catching and engaging in a unique way;
• be a cost-effective substitute when photography doesn’t exist; and
• provide a great deal of creative scope as the creative boundaries are virtually limitless.

Deciding between a photo or illustration

Consider these questions if you’re having trouble deciding between a photo or an illustration.

• How important is realism?
• Would a realistic photographic treatment be more effective to communicate with your audience or are there benefits to using an illustrative style, such as a drawing, painting, or infographic?
• Are there existing assets in the Government of Yukon’s photo library that you can use?
• If pre-existing photography isn’t available, do you have money in your budget to hire a photographer?

If you’re still having trouble deciding, email visual.design@gov.yk.ca for assistance. Apply the same rules for illustration as for photography. Never use clip art-style imagery because it looks unprofessional and of low quality.

Textures

Do not use textures, watermarks, or overlays. When working with colour blocks, only solid colours should be used.

Exception: you may use any of the supporting elements in the background.