Basics of Composition
Rule of Thirds Leading Lines Negative Space Golden Mean Dynamic
A simple explanation of composition for Photographers and artists alike. Rule of Thirds, Leading Lines, Negative Space, Golden Mean, and motion is discussed.
Whatever sort of camera you own, whether it is a high end DSLR or an inexpensive disposable camera, or anything in between, understanding the basics of photography is key to creating fabulous photos. Once you have the basics down, the rest should fall into place with some practice and a bit of determination.
To create a successful image, it is important to understand that everything within that image affects the mood and finished look. Composition, light, angle, treatment of the “film” (processing), handling of the camera and the actual handling of the subject matter can easily differentiate a quick snapshot from a gallery grade portrait.
In this, we will be discussing the basics of composition, which is an important part of creating a successful image.
Composition
Per Wikipedia, composition is defined as, “the plan, placement or arrangement of elements or ingredients in an artwork.” Within the photographical realm, the idea is to arrange elements within your shot that are balanced and visually pleasing.
Since the majority of photographs are rectangular or sometimes square in format, one can use this pre-existing geometric shape to its advantage. “Balanced” pictures are most pleasing to the eye. Some cameras offer a display setting, which splits the viewer or LED screen into thirds (9 boxes, like a tick-tack-toe grid). This division relates to the aesthetic device referred to as the Golden Section, or the rule of thirds.
The rule of thirds is about breaking up the image, spacing it out in a pleasing fashion using the imaginary lines (breaking it into thirds). When the imaginary vertical and horizontal grid lines are properly engaged, and the subject(s) are placed at one (or more) of their intersections, the image itself becomes far more pleasing.
Because of perspective and the way parallel lines converge in the distance, you will note many compositions have triangles and diagonals. Triangle shapes are common in nature, like mountains and trees. Referring to photographs, portraitures with the head of a person at the apex and their shoulders the feet, could be considered an abstract triangle. Diagonals are far more dynamic in compositions as they usually break the repetitiveness of the rectangle frame.
There is a rule called the “Golden Mean” which is also based off a mathematical equation and triangles. It’s really described much better over here but it is something you may want to check out.
When composing your image within your viewer and determining how the elements work together, also consider the negative and positive space within the frame. How does it all interact with your subject? Negative space, in this respect, is the area between and around your subject. It could be a cloudy sky around a mountain range, or a white marble counter top surrounding a red apple. Whenever you are looking at your work, you need to take in consideration if the negative space is adding anything dynamic to your shot. Sometimes when playing with the negative areas you can find beautiful shapes that enhance and add to the mood of your work. However, if you have a lot of excess area that isn’t helping your final product, crop it out. You don’t want excess areas bogging down your subject and in some cases, the rule “less is more” applies.
When elements of your photograph line up horizontally or vertically, it gives the impression of being static and grounded. This action echoes its rectangle frame (see above). When these lines are repeated leads the eye through a composition, also implying motion. These are referred to as “Leading Lines,” since they guide the eyes through a scene. Diagonal and curved lines give the feel of dynamic movement, and an opposite to the horizontal or vertical lines. Vertical and horizontal lines used in tandem organize, split and balance images.
I can’t stress enough, however, that any rule mentioned should be experimented with, bent and possibly broken. I highly recommend playing with the concepts and seeing what works and what doesn’t.
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