My intent with mapmaking on a desktop was that each hex ought to be one-inch across; this seemed a good size to squeeze in detail as needed. It has proved to be so. I felt that making the diameter of the hex ought to be 20 miles; in map parlance, 1:1,267,000. For comparison, most maps found in an atlas are 1:4,000,000 and up. So, mine are a bit more zoomed in for scale.
Because the world is so big, I've had to represent it on numerous plates, or as I call the, "sheets." The sheet shown represents an area of 366,450 sq.m., or about the size of British Columbia (almost 50% larger than Texas). The problem with an area like the one shown is a) there's not much on it except water and places no one wants to go; and b) for those unfamiliar with maps, it's difficult to get one's bearings.
I can supply an overview on the wiki, even provide a bit of colour if given the opportunity. But I've been thinking that I could also provide an inset of the above, so that it's neighbour sheets can be seen at a glance. I've done my first test and I'm pleased:
I suppose this isn't entirely helpful, since there are no big labels defining Norway, Sweden, Finland or Russia. I like the bright coloured square against the black and white background ... but then, I am familiar with maps and so I'm not a good judge. So, there's this alternative, where the background is also coloured, and the core area surrounded by a blue line:
I think many would prefer this. The line can be strengthened, if need be. But I'm still partial to the black & white version.
There's no reason I can't do this for every map I put on the wiki, though it will take time. Worth it, though.
I agree with you about the black & white being superior
ReplyDeleteI'd concur with the opinion on the black and white version.
ReplyDeleteTo your point about 'places no one wants to go', it might be nice for select inserts to highlight settlements (provinces, nations) of note in color text (or bright white) in the grayscale outer area - or at least those that are usefully greater than or equal to settlements/etc. in the inset. May provide some context for what might be going on in/through the emptier areas?
Generally with insets something like the grayscale is more effective, but usually showing a larger background area. I immediately know where this is based on the landscape because I'm a geographer and nerd in general, but most people aren't as familiar with that part of the world, so the background of the inset should definitely be of a smaller scale so it will show a larger portion of the world. It doesn't need to be the whole world map, but maybe all of Europe or the just northern portion. Of course the decision ultimately lies with you the cartographer, but there are some general best practices to consider.
ReplyDelete