The Rules of PhotographyUnit 57: Photography and Photographic Practice Terminology

P1, P2, M1, M2

Hannah Morse

Rule of thirds• The photo is divided

into thirds using a grid that is made into thirds.

• Division of the photo makes the focal point in the intersection.

Framing

• This is a technique used to bring focus to the subject.

Leading Lines

• This is when it takes your eye from the foreground to the background.

• Mainly seen when taking photos of landscapes and roads.

Balancing Elements• Placing your main subject

off center. • Creates a more

intersecting photo but it can leave a void in the scene which can make it feel empty.

• It should balance the weight of your subject by including another object of a lesser importance to fill the space.

Symmetry & Patterns

• Mainly uses center and doesn’t use the rule of thirds.

• Creates a strong focal point if it’s a mirror image.

Depth of Field

• The image does not change from sharp to un-sharp.

• The focus is central. • Shallow depth of field

means that the image is a lot out of focus.