The Power of Logos: How to Use Them for Maximum Impact

Logo Design is the art of creating a visual representation of a brand or company. There are various types of logo designs, each with its own unique characteristics. 7 different types of logos are discussed below.

Emblems

An emblem is a type of logo in which some kind of symbol, an image inside of a geometric shape, or some text is depicted or presented. Organizations, universities, and government agencies use such logos. They are memorable, give a traditional feel to your brand, and give an official look to your brand. However, it may not look so good when resized to a smaller resolution and it can be hard to read when placed on a billboard. Some companies like KIA and Starbucks have updated their emblem logos to modernize the traditional look and make it more appropriate for the 21st century

Pictorial Marks (logo symbols)

A pictorial mark, also known as a brandmark, is a logo reduced to its symbolic meaning. Examples of brandmark logos include Apple, Twitter, Nike, Target, and McDonald’s. These logos convey ideas through symbols and are easily recognizable if the brand is popular. However, they may not be the best option if brand recognition is weak. It is important that the Logo Design includes distinctive symbols that can be used as visual representations of the brand, even if it is not a literal representation of the business identity. As the brand becomes more established, the symbol of the logo can become recognizable enough to remove the wordmark association.

Wordmarks (logotypes)

A wordmark logo, also known as a logotype, is a type of logo design that consists solely of the company’s name in a unique font and color. It is simple and easy to mix with other design elements, making it easily recognizable and perfect for new businesses. However, it only works well with short brand names and may need to be updated to keep up with current design trends. In logo design, typography is key as it creates the identity of the brand. It’s important to choose a font that represents the brand well and to select colors that reflect the brand’s feel. Examples of wordmark logos include Coca-Cola, Disney, Google, Subway, and Jeep.

Monogram Logos (letter marks)

In logo design, lettermark logos are a popular choice for reducing a brand’s name to an acronym. Monogram logos have the advantage of being professional, scalable, and easy to recognize but can be hard to recognize for new brands. A custom, legible typeface should be chosen when creating the logo. Examples of famous brands that use lettermark logos include HBO, CNN, H&M, IBM, and the BBC.

Abstract Logo Marks

An abstract logo design uses abstract geometric forms and elements like Pepsi, BP, Adidas, and the Olympics. They can be unique and recognizable, but not ideal for new brands. The design should convey a specific message and represent the brand. The use of color can also aid in making the logo more memorable. Using an abstract logo design can be risky for new businesses as it requires a solid base of recognition before it becomes effective.

Mascot Logos

Mascot logos are a popular choice in logo design for evoking a fun and friendly vibe. They are easy to recognize and can create a strong connection with the audience. However, they can be hard to renew and change, and may not be suitable for brands that aim to send a professional message. Commonly used by sports teams, beverage companies, and food brands, mascot logos can be an effective tool in building brand identity and creating a memorable visual representation. Some examples are KFC, Cheetos, and Pringles.

Combination Mark

A combination mark logo is a mix of various logo designs. It’s perfect for new businesses and easy to edit in the long term, giving you the freedom to be creative. However, it may appear overloaded if it combines too many logotypes. Mix and match different types of logos, such as symbols, abstract forms, typography, and wordmarks, until you find the best version for your brand. Some examples of this type of logo design are Domino’s Pizza, Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, Puma, and Adobe. In logo design, we recommend considering a combination mark if you’re unsure about other options, but make sure to research and ensure that no other brand uses a similar concept.