More About Composition

Composition

• Composition is the placement of elements within the restriction of the frame of the photo according to the principles of design

• It is the creative side of photography (vs. the technical)

Composition is determined by the elements and principles of art• Elements

•Shape

•Color

•Value

•Space

•Form

•Texture

•Line

• Principles•Balance

•Proportion

•Rhythm / Movement

•Variety

•Unity

•Emphasis

Subject and Treatment

• A photo can be broken down into two parts: the subject, and the treatment the subject is given

Which of these photos displays the “Rule of Thirds?” Which is more visually appealing?

The Importance of Line• Horizontal and vertical lines = Stability

• Diagonal lines = Action and Tension

How are the lines in these images arranged differently?

• Curved lines = Peacefulness

… OR action / movement

Leading lines = Lines that draw the eye around the composition

- OR draw the eye right to the focal point