Well, as they say, ‘Rules is rules. Ignore them at your peril.’
I recently received an email from one of my previous students from across the Channel asking if there are any rules they should follow in order to improve the composition of their images. They have various grids they can overlay on their preview screen but it’s all a bit confusing ‘if you don’t know what you’re looking for’. So I thought I’d delve a wee bit deeper into Composition and how, by applying a little thought, we can give our images a real kick-start. Now, this isn’t technical (thank goodness!) and some of it might be blindingly obvious to a few out there but that’s the way it is…so pour y’self a cuppa, sit back, read on, relax and then grab your camera and try out some of the ideas. And really, you don’t have to move far from your chair – anywhere will do: It’s about composition… not going to some incredible location!! For this exercise, all you need is a bit of light, a couple of objects, and your camera. Try it.
Starting with the most common rule….
The Rule of Thirds
One of the most well-known composition techniques is the Rule of Thirds. Imagine your frame divided into nine equal parts by two equally spaced horizontal lines and two equally spaced vertical lines. The idea is to place the most important elements of your scene along these lines or at their intersections. This creates balance and interest in your photo. For example, placing the horizon on the top or bottom third line, rather than in the centre, can make landscapes more dynamic.
Moving on…
Leading Lines
Leading lines are lines that guide the viewer’s eye through the photograph, often towards the main subject. These can be anything from roads, rivers, fences, or even shadows. Leading lines can add depth and perspective to your images, making them more engaging. They can be straight, diagonal, or even curved, each creating a different effect.
Symmetry and Patterns
Symmetry and patterns can create visually pleasing and harmonious images. Symmetry involves creating a mirror image within your photo, which can be found in architecture, reflections, or even nature. Patterns, on the other hand, are repeated elements that can be found in textures, colours, or shapes. Both symmetry and patterns can add a sense of order and structure to your photos.
Framing
Framing involves using elements within your scene to create a ‘frame’ around your subject. This can be anything from a window, doorway, arch, or even tree branches. Framing helps to focus attention on the main subject and can add depth and context to your image. It also creates a sense of layering, making the photo more three-dimensional.
Negative Space
Negative space refers to the empty or open space around your subject. Using negative space effectively can create a sense of simplicity and elegance, emphasizing the subject and making it stand out. It can also convey a sense of scale and isolation, depending on how it’s used. Negative space doesn’t have to be empty; it can be filled with textures or colors that complement the subject.
Depth of Field
Depth of field is the distance between the nearest and farthest objects in a photo that appear acceptably sharp. A shallow depth of field, where only a small part of the image is in focus, can isolate the subject from the background, creating a sense of depth and focus. A deep depth of field, where everything is in focus, can be used to show the entire scene in detail, which is great for landscapes.
Perspective
Perspective is all about the angle and distance from which you shoot your subject. Changing your perspective can dramatically alter the look and feel of your photo. Shooting from a low angle can make your subject appear larger and more imposing, while shooting from a high angle can make it seem smaller and more vulnerable. Experimenting with different perspectives can lead to more interesting and unique images.
Colour and Contrast
Colour and contrast play a crucial role in composition. Colours can evoke emotions and set the mood of your photo. Warm colours like red, orange, and yellow can create a sense of warmth and energy, while cool colours like blue and green can evoke calm and tranquillity. Contrast, whether in colour, light, or texture, can help to highlight your subject and create visual interest.
Balance
Balance in composition refers to the distribution of visual weight within your photo. There are two types of balance: symmetrical and asymmetrical. Symmetrical balance is when both sides of the image are identical or very similar, creating a sense of harmony. Asymmetrical balance, on the other hand, involves different elements that balance each other out through their visual weight, creating a more dynamic and interesting composition.
The Golden Ratio
The Golden Ratio is a mathematical ratio often found in nature, art, and architecture. In photography, it can be used to create a naturally pleasing composition. The Golden Ratio can be visualized as a spiral or a grid, similar to the Rule of Thirds but with slightly different proportions. Placing key elements along these lines or within the spiral can create a balanced and harmonious image.
Texture
Texture adds a tactile quality to your photos, making them more engaging and realistic. It can be found in surfaces like wood, stone, fabric, or even skin. Capturing texture involves paying attention to light and shadow, as these can enhance or diminish the appearance of texture. Using side lighting can help to bring out the details and create a more three-dimensional effect.
Juxtaposition
Juxtaposition involves placing two or more elements in your photo that contrast with each other, creating a visual or conceptual contrast. This can be achieved through differences in size, color, shape, or subject matter. Juxtaposition can add depth and meaning to your photos, making them more thought-provoking and interesting.
Minimalism
Minimalism in photography is all about simplicity and focusing on the essentials. It involves using a few elements to create a strong composition, often with a lot of negative space. Minimalist photos can be very powerful, as they strip away distractions and focus on the core subject. This style often relies on clean lines, simple shapes, and a limited color palette.
Rule of Odds
The Rule of Odds suggests that an odd number of elements in a composition is more interesting and engaging than an even number. This is because an odd number of elements creates a sense of balance and harmony, while an even number can feel static and less dynamic. For example, photographing three flowers instead of two or four can create a more pleasing composition.
Triangles
Using triangles in your composition can create a sense of stability and balance. Triangles can be formed by the arrangement of elements within your photo, either explicitly or implicitly. They can guide the viewer’s eye through the image and create a sense of movement and direction. Triangles can be used in various ways, such as pointing towards the subject or creating a frame within the frame.
Golden Triangles
The Golden Triangles technique involves dividing your frame into four triangles by drawing one diagonal line from one corner to the opposite corner and then drawing two lines from the other corners to meet the first line at right angles. Placing key elements along these lines or at their intersections can create a balanced and dynamic composition.
Fill the Frame
Filling the frame means getting close to your subject so that it occupies a significant portion of the frame. This technique can create a sense of intimacy and immediacy, drawing the viewer’s attention directly to the subject. It can also eliminate distracting backgrounds and emphasize details. This approach works well for portraits, macro photography, and any subject where you want to highlight specific features.
Centred Composition
While the Rule of Thirds often advises against placing your subject in the centre, centred composition can be very effective in certain situations. Centring your subject can create a sense of symmetry and balance, especially when combined with other elements like leading lines or framing. This technique works well for subjects that are naturally symmetrical or when you want to create a strong focal point.
Dynamic Tension
Dynamic tension involves creating a sense of movement and energy within your photo. This can be achieved through the use of diagonal lines, contrasting elements, or off-centre compositions. Dynamic tension can make your photos more engaging and exciting, drawing the viewer’s eye through the image and creating a sense of anticipation.
Layering
Layering adds depth and complexity to your photos by including multiple elements at different distances from the camera. This can create a sense of three-dimensionality and help to tell a more complete story. For example, you might include a foreground element to frame the main subject in the middle ground, with a background that provides context. Layering can be achieved through careful composition and the use of different focal lengths.
Conclusion
Composition is a powerful tool in photography that can transform your images from ordinary to extraordinary. By understanding and experimenting with these various techniques, you can develop your own unique style and create photos that are visually compelling and emotionally resonant. Remember, the key to great composition is practice and experimentation. Don’t be afraid to break the rules and try new things—some of the most memorable photos come from thinking outside the box. So, grab your camera, get out, and start composing your masterpieces!
But also remember one very important final Rule: Rules are there to be broken…it’s not a crime!
Happy snappin’ folks
Meter The Light 