The goal of photographic composition is to arrange the key elements and details of the image in such a way so that the final image is balanced and interesting to the viewer. Whether a composition is successful is subjective as it is the viewer who determines whether a composition is good or not.
In Photography a popular rule is the Rule Of Thirds which is and has been used by non photographic artists. In its simplest terms you divide your image into thirds both horizontally and vertically. You then place the important elements of your composition in the intersection of these areas.
Before you go any further, it’s not necessary to add all these elements to every photo you shoot, just start gradually and work through them. here some Compositional Keys in Photography :
1.Pattern
Look for patterns and repetitions of patterns. You’ll find them fascinating and so will the viewers of your images. By emphasizing them and highlighting them in an image adds a dimension of greater interest. Fill the whole image with the pattern so that it is the main focus of the image. You want the pattern to appear as if it is popping out of the frame. You can also use an element to break the flow of the pattern which then emphasizes the pattern breaker. For example, a tray of brown eggs with one broken one revealing a bright yellow yolk.
2.Texture
Texture makes your images tactile. The viewer feels as if they can touch the image whether it be soft, smooth, rough or slippery. Texture is accentuated by great light falling on the subject. Sidelighting is especially good at accentuating texture. It creates an almost three dimensional effect when viewed with light coming from the right angle.
3.Lines
Lines add the most incredible dimensions to any image. Lines lead the eye and if you use them properly will draw a viewer’s eye to any part of the photo you desire. This is called a focal point. Place an object or subject at one these focal points and a sweeping curved line will bring the eye all the way into the image until reaches the focal point. Use diagonals, verticals, horizontals and often most effective, converging lines. Used properly and you will always have an interesting photo to share.
4.Colour
What more needs to be said. Colour is what our world is all about. Vibrant, well saturated colours feed the idea and the soul. Our worlds are made up of colour and we see, think and feel in colour. So by adding colour in the right amounts and in the correct combinations you will add an element of drama to the image
Rich reds and oranges bring warmth while cool blues and greys cool down an image. Greens signify growth, wealth and health while blacks and dark blues bring a more sombre effect to the image. Use colours wisely and they will reward you with outstanding images.
5. Depth of Field
We have all heard of depth of field and sometimes neglect to use it efficiently. Depth of field or depth of focus as it is also known is when an image’s background is blurred, a narrow depth of field, or when the whole image is in focus, a wide depth of field. The ability to control your depth of field will bring an added dimension to your images allowing you to isolate and frame your subjects. (related post : Photoshop Tutorial to Create Realistic Depth of Field)
You’ll add a quality to you images that will leave your viewers pleasantly surprised. picture is no longer a mystery. Composition is the key, and once you train your eye to compose the perfect picture your shots will add a quality to you images that will leave your viewers pleasantly surprised and improve as soon as you develop your next roll of film!
Related Post : Improve your Photography Compositon