In today’s digital world, it’s far too easy to become a “faceless” brand. Thankfully, there are a few ways to avoid this. Publishing authentic photos and videos is one. Using a humanizing logo is another, whether your brand’s design features a full-blown figure or just a humanoid shape. 99designs‘ Kelsey Bryant rounded up 28 inspiring logo designs with a human element to fuel the design geek in all of us.
Humans are a social species. We look for others of our kind whenever we can. Heck, we even imagine we see faces in the fronts of cars or random combinations of punctuation. When getting your logo designed, you, too, can take advantage of this cognitive bias by putting a person in your logo. To make a connection with your customers, just put a human being or element front and center.
Face Forward
If your brand aims to be open and honest with your customers, go for the direct approach. Just show them a face! It could be your face if you want to represent your company. Or, create a mascot that projects the image you want your customers to have. You can even use a historical figure that embodies your core values.
The point is, put a human face on your brand. You don’t want to be a “faceless corporation,” do you? After all, you built and supported this company from the ground up. It’s not faceless to you.
Give Full-Bodied Logos a Try
There are times when a face just isn’t enough. Our bodies are expressive, which is why they call it “body language.” A full-bodied logo can highlight activity and energy with dynamic poses. Even sitting still can feel active when drawn with verve.
If physical involvement is at the core of your company — like, say, as a photographer or a gardener — you need to take a broader view. Utilize a larger human form (such as a full body or torso in your logo) to really show off what it is you do.
Humanoids and Abstractions
Just like faces, humans recognize human shapes quite easily. Your human logo doesn’t have to look exactly like a living, breathing person. The figure can be drawn in a stylized fashion, or even in silhouette. You can even substitute body parts for different shapes that fit in with your product and company mission.
Plus, a simplified form means it scales well, whether it’s the banner of your homepage or tiny print on your business card.
Form a Relationship
No one is an island. We all need help along the way and work with others to achieve our goals. If part of your branding is that communal effort, show a pair or group of people in your logo. You can even tell a story with their interactions and an interplay between two people.
Corporations Are (Made up of) People
Your company is personal to you. It’s not just a bunch of spread sheets and profit-loss reports. You pour your heart and soul into it, trying to create something new in the world. So don’t just design a bland, generic logo to represent all that hard work. Instead, show the world your personality with a humanizing logo.
Scopio is the industry’s premier search and licensing platform for images and videos on social media. We help brands, nonprofits, companies and media outlets find and use the photos and videos that matter to their audience, from capturing content to sparking relationships with photographers. Need inspiring logo designs with a human element? Hit up 99designs. Wondering how to use UGC without sacrificing brand vision? Email us at [email protected] or sign up for a 10-day free trial.
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