The size of a gap helps readers understand how nearby items relate to each other. A caption placed close to an image belongs to that image. A larger pause before the next subject signals a change. Neither relationship requires an extra label explaining what the section is. But adding empty space everywhere does not produce the same result. It can separate words that should be read together or force excessive scrolling before the next useful idea. Use spacing to express grouping and pace, then check whether those relationships survive on a narrower screen.
Place related words and images closer together.
Place a caption close to its image and a little farther from the next work. Without adding a border, the spacing says which words belong to which picture. Increase the pause between major sections and the reader can feel the change of subject. Two photographs with equally spaced captions can create ambiguity if the gap between a caption and the next image is no larger than the gap to its own image. Moving each caption closer to its image makes it clear which picture it describes. Readers can recognize the caption from its placement without a label saying “Caption”.
Space is relative. A generous desktop composition may become wasteful on a small screen, while tightly packed mobile text can blur separate decisions together. Adjust the gaps for each screen size while keeping related items visibly closer together. Generous space should make the page easier to follow, not conceal a shortage of useful content. When a large blank area interrupts a short explanation, reduce it enough for the reader to follow the thought.
Put it into practice.
Identify what should be read together and where the subject genuinely changes. Keep a heading close to the explanation it introduces and a caption close to the image it describes. Increase separation at meaningful transitions before adding another border or container. Review a full page, not only one attractive section. On smaller screens, preserve the relative grouping while reducing unnecessary distance. Check whether readers can tell what belongs together from the spacing itself.
What belongs together, and where should the reader pause?