Every great photograph shares one common feature and that is a strong composition. Following Rules of composition is the secret sauce that turns a simple image into an eye-catching one. It allows you to position your subject in a way that it becomes and remains the focal point of your image. At the same time, common composition mistakes often detract from the overall appeal of your image.
Learning the rules of composition can help you avoid these mistakes and enhance the visual impact of your images. Let’s explore our top 7 rules of composition to frame each shot perfectly and take your photography to the next level.
- Rule of Thirds
- Symmetry and Balance
- Leading lines
- Use repetition and pattern
- Rule of Space
- Look for Particular Color Combinations
- Don’t Cut Your Images in Half
Rule of Thirds
One of the fundamental rules of photography composition is the rule of thirds. The rule of thirds suggests that any image frame should be divided into nine parts using two horizontal and vertical lines. These lines are used to determine the placement of your subject.
Ideally, the subject is placed on the bottom 2/3rd of the image in the centre or where the lines intersect. This technique helps create a dynamic look ensuring the attention is directed towards the subject. However, it is important to not only focus on the subject matter but the imagery surrounding it as well.
Symmetry and Balance Rules of Composition
In photography composition, symmetry does not always mean that both sides of the image need to be exactly the same. But. there should be some sort of element in the image that creates a sense of harmony and balance. Such as placing your subject with a large element on one side balanced by a smaller object on the other.
This visual equilibrium is pleasing to the eye as it provides a sense of order. However, it is totally fine to even place your subject in the centre of a bigger element, such as an entrance. The goal is to simply ensure that the image looks visually cohesive and that the surroundings support and complement the subject.
Rules of Composition Leading Lines
Leading lines is a technique in photography composition that allows you to guide your viewer’s eyes to the subject. By using elements in your background to create a visual pathway, you can strategically position your subject along these lines. Imagine a winding road, a row of trees, or a flowing river, anything placed on this path will automatically be more noticeable.
Being mindful of these lines helps create a sense of direction. Additionally, avoid lines that intersect with your subject. A line cutting across the subject can create a distracting or disjointed composition. For example, a pole sticking out of the head of the subject.
Use Repetition and Pattern Rule
Similarly, you can use the surrounding patterns in your background to enhance the visual appeal of your images. Repeated shapes and textures in your surroundings can help visually organise the composition and create a sense of movement and flow.
Pay attention to how repetition can lead the viewer’s eye across the frame. A slight contrasting element or any element that breaks a pattern becomes the most prominent part of the image. Search through your surroundings and learn how to strategically utilize patterns and repetitions in your photography to make your subject pop.
Rule of Space
The rule of space combines with all the other compositional rules such as the rule of thirds and leading lines. Photography compositions are not full-fledged rules that you must follow but a combination of tricks that can help you determine where to place your subject.
The rule of space is all about leaving enough room around your subject to imply a sense of movement and direction. It ideally suggests that there should be visual space ahead of the direction in which the subject is moving.
Look for Particular Color Combinations
Colours are an important aspect of photography composition and can be used to create contrast and a sense of harmony in the image. Learning about the colour theory can come in handy when you want to enhance your compositions. Your goal should be to utilize complimentary colours as much as possible and avoid colours that don’t go well together. Similarly, using analogous colours (colours that are next to each other on the colour wheel) can create a soothing effect.
Don’t Cut Your Images in Half
It is one of the most common mistakes people make when starting out their photography journey, to cut images in half. What we mean by that is dividing your frame equally between two elements of the background. For example, dedicating 50% of the horizontal frame to the sky and the other 50% to the foreground.
We recommend avoiding this mistake as it creates an unbalanced look. Rather understand your focal point and dedicate more portion of the image to that element. If your subject is separate from the background, consider adjusting your camera angle. Move it slightly above, placing the horizon line lower to improve the composition
Conclusion
Mastering these rules can make a significant difference in the quality of your images. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll notice how composition becomes second nature, and your shots will naturally fall into place.
These rules of composition provide a great foundation to avoid awkward angles and ensure your subject always stands out. However, it is important to experiment with different angles and let your creativity shine through. Take multiple shots with different angles and see which angle works best for you.