COMPOSITION Photography I

What is Composition?

Arrangement of the subject/subjects in a visually pleasing and interesting way

Vantage Point: The angle that a photo is taken from.

There are 5 rules of composition

Annie Leibovitz, Susan

Rules of Composition

5 Rules Rules of Thirds Simplicity Line Framing Balance

Rule of Thirds

Rule of Thirds Picture plane is

divided into 9 equal parts.

The subject is then placed along one of the lines or at one of the 4 intersection points.

Simplicity

Give your subject the most attention

Avoid complicated or busy backgrounds

Martin Schoeller, Angelina Jolie

Line

Line and texture can be used to draw the viewers attention to the subject

Guides the viewer through the photograph

Framing

The photographer uses existing elements to draw the viewers attention to the subject

Balance

How elements are arranged Symmetrical: Evenly

distributes the elements in the photograph.

Asymmetrical: Elements are not evenly distributed. It tends to create more interesting compositions.

Vantage Point

a position or place that affords a wide or advantageous perspective; viewpoint

Jeffery Garland

Jeffery Garland

Why are the rules important?

The rules of composition are meant to work as guidelines for creating photographs that are visually pleasing, engaging, and interesting.