Visual center
If you ask someone to point to the center of a shape, they’ll generally point to a spot slightly above the geometric center. Because of the emphasis we place on the top of a composition or element, we perceive the visual center to be slightly higher than the actual center.[1]
In design, that means that if we place elements at the geometric center, they can actually appear to be unbalanced and slightly too low. Placing elements in the visual center gives a more balanced and harmonious look to your designs.
Pro Tip: Balance elements around the visual center instead of the geometric center to draw more attention to your subject.
References
- Design Principles: Visual Weight And Direction — Smashing Magazine | Smashing Magazine