Art 177 :: Creative Photography

Composition

Jade Cisneros

Composition [definitions]❖ The way in which something is

put together❖ The process of selecting and

organizing visual elements within the photographic frame

Composition [the RULES]❖ Many people associate

composition with unwavering, rigid RULES

❖ In other words, “You must do this”, or “You can’t do that”

Composition [the RULES]❖ But the rules were not invented

to tell people how to compose❖ They are based on thousands

of years of observing nature and artwork❖ Decided on what worked

“best” to create a pleasing composition

❖ They are guidelines to help us create more interesting photos

Composition [rule of thirds]❖ The most commonly cited rule

is the “rule of thirds”❖ Divide up an image with 2

horizontal and 2 vertical lines so that they create equally sized rectangles

Composition [rule of thirds]❖ If you have a single object,

place it at the intersection of two of the lines and the image will usually be balanced

Composition [rule of thirds]❖ If there is a horizon, place it at

one of the horizontal lines. ❖ If you want to emphasize the

upper portion of the photo, place the horizon at the lower line

❖ If you have a strong vertical line, place it at one of the vertical lines

Composition [rule of thirds]❖ The rule of thirds works

because it automatically creates visual movement in the photo❖ This encourages the viewer

to look around the photo-taking more time to see more details and relationships

❖ It also works, because…well…MATH!

Composition [rule of thirds]❖ The rule of thirds is a

simplified approximation of the Golden Ratio, which is a simplified approximation of the Fibonacci Spiral❖ There are endless amounts of

examples of the Fibonacci Spiral that may be found in nature

from demolition.com

Composition [rule of thirds]❖ Many cameras today have rule

of thirds guidelines available. You may need to go into the options or menu to find it❖ This will superimpose the

rule of thirds guides on the viewing screen

Composition [centered]❖ Many “purists” will say

NEVER center an object in the composition

❖ Centered object tend to be very static because the center of the photo is the least active part of the photo

❖ Objects may be centered if they have strong geometric elements or a strong shape

Composition [centered]❖ A centered composition also

may work if the feeling of the photograph is intended to be quiet and still

Composition [leading lines]❖ While this photograph is about

using an incongruous object to walk a dog, the line created by the necktie helps direct the viewer’s attention to the dog.

Composition [s-shape]❖ The use of the s-curves in the

pose helps to make the pose more dynamic❖ This helps the model stand

out from the environment even more

Composition [c-shape]❖ As the lines move from the front to the back, they show

the depth of the setting. The reverse c-curve here also adds motion to the otherwise still grass/snow scene

Composition [v-shape]❖ The subtle v-shape in the

center of the roof gives more of a feeling of depth

❖ It also becomes a point of interest for the viewer

Composition [triangle]❖ A triangular composition

emphasizes the relationship between the objects

❖ The large base also creates a strong foundation which suggests strength

Composition [horizon line]❖ Placing the horizon line in a

high position emphasizes the canoe

❖ The low placement of the horizon emphasizes the storm clouds and how they dwarf the homestead

Brett Mills

Composition [diagonals]❖ Compositions with diagonals are very active but one must be

careful not to let the strong diagonals lead the viewer off the page❖ There must be elements in the photo that pull the viewer back to

the image

Composition [symmetry]❖ Perfect symmetry occurs when each half of the photo is a mirror

image of the other. This often results in a static and boring photo❖ Slight differences between the two sides suggests symmetry, but the

differences add interest

Composition [repetition]❖ The repetition created by the

vent towers of the root cellar becomes a rhythmic pattern the diminishes as they go off to the rear of the location

Composition [summary]❖ Ultimately, the photographer

must be aware of composition in order for the viewer to be able to interpret why the photograph was taken and what is its intended message

❖ Composition isn’t a set of unchanging rules that must be followed, but instead is a set of guidelines that should be considered when taking photos