Composition & Design Concepts
June 20, 2018
Composition Concept | Description |
Line | Lines in photography can be used to guide the viewer’s eyes, create a sense of movement or direction, or divide the image into distinct sections. They can be straight, curved, diagonal, or even implied. |
Shape | Shapes refer to the geometric or organic forms present in a photograph. They can be simple or complex and can add structure, interest, or symbolism to an image. |
Volume or Mass | Volume or mass relates to the perception of three-dimensional objects in a photograph. It involves creating a sense of depth, solidity, and weight through lighting, shadowing, and composition. |
Color | Color is a powerful element in photography that can evoke emotions, convey mood, or create visual impact. Photographers can use color theory and the relationships between different hues to enhance their images. |
Texture | Texture refers to the tactile quality or surface characteristics present in a photograph. It can be rough, smooth, soft, or hard, and capturing texture effectively can add depth and interest to an image. |
Light | Light is a fundamental element in photography, as it affects the overall mood, contrast, and visibility of the subject. Photographers can manipulate light through its quality, direction, and intensity. |
Space | Space in photography refers to the area around, between, and within subjects. It plays a crucial role in composition, allowing photographers to create depth, balance, and a sense of scale within their images. |
Time | Time in photography involves capturing a single moment or conveying the passage of time through techniques such as long exposures or capturing motion blur. It can add a dynamic element to an image. |
Design Concept | Description |
Contrast | Contrast refers to the difference between light and dark areas in a photograph. It helps create visual interest, emphasize specific elements, and provide depth and dimension to an image. |
Balance | Balance involves arranging visual elements within a photograph to create a sense of equilibrium. It can be symmetrical or asymmetrical and is essential for creating harmony and stability in an image. |
Emphasis | Emphasis directs the viewer’s attention to a specific subject or element within a photograph. It can be achieved through various techniques, such as selective focus, lighting, or framing. |
Proportion | Proportion relates to the relative size and scale of objects within a photograph. It helps establish a sense of harmony, balance, and realism, ensuring that elements within the frame appear visually pleasing. |
Hierarchy | Hierarchy refers to the arrangement of elements within a photograph to create a sense of importance or visual order. It guides the viewer’s gaze and helps convey the intended message or narrative. |
Repetition | Repetition involves the use of recurring patterns, shapes, or elements within a photograph. It can create rhythm, visual interest, and a sense of unity, making the image more visually appealing and cohesive. |
Rhythm | Rhythm in photography is created by the repetition or alternation of visual elements. It adds a sense of movement, flow, and tempo to the image, engaging the viewer’s eye and creating a harmonious composition. |
Pattern | Pattern refers to the repetition of specific elements in a photograph, creating a predictable or recognizable sequence. Patterns can add visual interest, structure, and a sense of order to an image. |
White Space | White space, also known as negative space, is the empty or unoccupied area surrounding the main subject in a photograph. It provides breathing room, emphasizes the subject, and enhances overall composition. |
Movement | Movement in photography can be actual, capturing subjects in motion, or implied, suggesting motion through compositional techniques. It adds energy, dynamism, and a sense of narrative to the image. |
Variety | Variety involves incorporating diverse elements, such as different colors, textures, shapes, or sizes, within a photograph. It adds visual interest, prevents monotony, and engages the viewer’s attention. |
Unity | Unity refers to the visual harmony and coherence within a photograph. It involves ensuring that all elements work together, share a common theme or style, and contribute to a unified composition or message. |
Similarity | Similarity relates to the repetition or similarity of visual elements within a photograph. It creates a sense of connection, cohesiveness, and visual flow, tying different parts of the image together. |
Continuation | Continuation involves the use of lines, shapes, or other visual elements that guide the viewer’s eye from one part of the photograph to another. It creates a visual pathway, leading to a more engaging composition. |
Closure | Closure occurs when the viewer’s mind completes the missing parts of an image to perceive it as a whole or recognize familiar objects or forms. It engages the viewer’s imagination and can add intrigue to a photograph. |
Proximity | Proximity refers to the visual relationship between objects or elements within a photograph. It influences the perception of their connection, creates visual groupings, and can convey a sense of intimacy or distance. |
Figure/Ground | Figure/ground refers to the relationship between the main subject (figure) and the surrounding background (ground) in a photograph. It helps define the subject and provides context and visual separation. |
Symmetry & Order | Symmetry and order involve the balance and repetition of visual elements in a photograph. Symmetrical compositions create a sense of stability and harmony, while ordered arrangements convey a structured aesthetic. |