This updated guide preserves five core brochure tips: define your audience, use a single strong cover visual, prioritize readable typography, design for quick scanning with clear CTAs, and caption images while following print/digital export best practices (300 DPI and CMYK for print; RGB and optimized PDFs for digital). It also highlights modern tools and a final checklist to use before distribution.
Why good brochure design still matters
A brochure is a compact, focused way to explain a product or service. Whether you produce a printed pamphlet or a digital PDF, the same communication goals apply: reach the right people, make the message easy to scan, and prompt the reader to act.1. Start with your target audience
Identify the primary reader before you place a photo or write the headline. Audience decisions shape imagery, tone, and calls to action. A brochure aimed at first-time home buyers will look and read differently than one for commercial contractors.2. Use a single strong cover visual
Choose one hero image for the cover. A single, well-composed photo or illustration creates instant focus; multiple competing images dilute impact. Make sure the cover visual directly relates to the audience and the brochure's main promise.3. Keep typography readable and accessible
Use a clear hierarchy: headline, subhead, body text, captions. For print, 10-12 point body text typically reads well; for small-print collateral or dense content, increase leading (line spacing) rather than only font size. Choose plain, legible fonts and avoid dense blocks of text. Use bold or color to highlight key benefits, but keep emphasis sparing.4. Make scanning easy with headlines and highlights
People scan brochures. Use short, descriptive headlines, concise bullet lists, and bolded or colored pull-quotes to draw attention. Place the primary call to action (CTA) where the eye naturally stops - end of a section or the bottom of a panel. Keep CTAs specific (for example, "Schedule a demo" or "Call for a free estimate").5. Caption photos and choose the right workflow
Caption images to explain what the reader is looking at and why it matters. For print, use high-resolution images (generally 300 DPI) and export files in CMYK color mode. For digital distribution, use RGB and export a compressed PDF or optimized PNG/JPEG. Save a print-ready PDF for commercial printers and a smaller PDF for email or web downloads.Tools and templates
Online design tools and templates can speed production. Popular options include Canva, Adobe Express, Figma, and Google Docs. Use templates as starting points, then customize imagery, colors, and text to match your brand.Quick checklist before you finalize
- Have you defined the target reader?
- Is the cover dominated by one clear visual?
- Is the type size and hierarchy readable?
- Is the main message scannable and supported by a clear CTA?
- Are images captioned and exported in the correct format (300 DPI/CMYK for print, RGB for digital)?
FAQs about Brochure Maker
What font size should I use in a brochure?
For most printed brochures use 10-12 point for body text and larger sizes for headlines. Adjust line spacing (leading) for readability and test printed proofs to confirm legibility.
What image resolution and color mode should I use for print?
Use images at 300 DPI and export in CMYK color mode for commercial printing. Ask your printer for file requirements and bleed specifications before final export.
Can I use online templates to make a brochure?
Yes. Templates in tools like Canva, Adobe Express, Figma, or Google Docs are good starting points - customize them for your brand and audience.
Should I include captions on every photo?
Provide captions for photos that need explanation or context. Captions help readers understand why an image matters and improve message clarity.
What file formats work best for distribution?
Export a print-ready PDF (with CMYK and bleed) for the printer, and a smaller RGB-optimized PDF or JPEG/PNG for email and web distribution.