Module 2: Cartography

"A map is a contract between the cartographer and the map-reader."

Cartography

This week's focus is on Cartography where we explore the 5-Step Cartographic Process to visually and effectively communicate our maps purpose to our users as budding "GIS Cartographers." 

The lab was pretty straightforward. Review of a few things we were exposed to last week. New things I learned were metadata, coordinates, inset, extents, bookmarking scales, clip layers, legends, scales, north arrow, and dynamic text.

Had an issue with the coordinates not converting to degrees but a couple of my classmates had already encountered the same problem and posted on how to change the coordinate system. 

Another goal for this week was to start creating a mapping style and "owning your map."

My "theme" for this week's map clean, clear, and balanced. 

The "heavier" elements (logo, inset map, and legend) are separated from each other in a triangle layout. 

I choose a 25% Transparency on the Escambia County layer so there wasn't a solid colorblock that would dominate the visual. With the theoretical users being new visitors to UWF or Pensacola- being able to slightly see the other main roads into the area would be beneficial if they are not coming in from the interstate. 

The title and UWF symbology are the same color scheme as the UWF Logo. 

I tried several different symbols for the UWF Campus. The star kept overlapping on the City Name for Ferry Pass and the square shapes were nice but the circle with the University Cap fit neatly with the curve in the road. 

UWF Main Campus Map on Human Geography Map

Quote Reference:
Jensen, J. R., & Jensen, R. R. (2013). Chapter 10 Cartography Using a GIS. In Introductory Geographic Information Systems (p. 286). Pearson.