Photography Composition Techniques

1. Rule of thirds.

Most likely the most well-known principle of photography composition. The rule is to imagine or have a 3 by 3 grid, and have the point of focus on any one of the intersections. The theory is that this will make the photo more balance and enable the viewer to interact with it more naturally.

For example, this bee's eye is the focus, so it is taken on the top right intersection.

Retrieved from http://digital-photography-school.com/rule-of-thirds/ on 21/03/16

2. Selecting a background.

The point of a background is to set the tone. It is supposed to suit the photo and can give it context. If a background is chosen poorly, it can distract the viewer from the actual photo.

3. Framing.

Framing assists the presentation of the photo. It's purpose is usually to direct the viewers attention to the main object in the photo by using other object/s in the image.

Retrieved from http://photographyblogger.net/framing/ on 11/04/16. Image name: Black and White House. Photo by: Scott Ableman

4. Creating Depth.

To give a 2D photo a 3D feel instead. It invites the viewer to observe and explore the interesting picture rather than just glancing at the photo.

Retrieved from http://www.zevendesign.com/creating-depth-art-photography/ on 11/04/16.

5. Patterns.

Brings a sense of visual rhythm and harmony. Patterns are when strong elements graphic elements like lines, colours, shapes or forms repeat themselves.

Retrieved from http://photography.tutsplus.com/articles/a-10-step-guide-to-understanding-and-utilising-pattern--photo-4239 on 11/04/16

6. Symmetry.

Gives you a sense of balance and beautiful proportion. There are many different methods of symmetry, one of the main methods is capturing a photo that can be divided into two equal or almost equal parts.

Retrieved from http://photographyblogger.net/symmetry/ on 11/04/16. Image name: underpierclouds. Photo by: David Gordon Whittaker

7. Room for action.

This is when a photo is taken at a perfect moment when an action is happening. It is important to understand how that action works. Room for action is when you leave space where that action is going to go even though it is not moving. So the viewer understands what is going to happen next.

Retrieved from http://www.dptips-central.com/rules-of-composition.html on 11/04/16

8. Leading Lines.

Leading lines is when the photo leads the viewers eye down a path or 'line' in the image. It can feel like you are actually in the image.

Retrieved from http://www.photovideoedu.com/Learn/Articles/jim-zuckerman-on-composition-leading-lines.aspx on 11/04/16

9. Rule of Odds.

This means that having an odd number of objects in the picture. So if you have one main object, support it with two others instead of 1 or 3. This makes it more pleasing to the eye.

Retrieved from http://allphotographyabout.blogspot.com.au/2012_11_01_archive.html on 11/04/16

10. Balance.

Balance can also be defined as symmetrical balance. When a photo is balanced, it means that both the left and the right side of the image draws the eye equally. A balanced scene makes it seem more calm.