Richard Schneider explains briefly and concisely the rules
of composition. As Richard says, knowing the rules (and understanding
them) will actually improve your observation, and your capacity
to spot good photo opportunities.
Photography - Rules of Composition
Composition is defined as the combining of distinct
parts or elements to form a whole. In photography that
definition is very important in taking quality pictures.
The following rules of composition should be learned
and considered but not necessarily used in every photo.
Once you have learned these rules you will be more observant
of the possible photo opportunities that surround you.
But keep in mind that the really famous photographers
usually find a creative way to stretch or break the rules
of composition.
RULE OF THIRDS
The rule of thirds has been used through the centuries
and is probably the most recognized rule. The rule of
thirds directs that the frame can be divided into three
vertical sections and three horizontal sections. Wherever
the separating lines connect is an ideal spot for a subject
or point of interest. By positioning your main subject
at any of the four intersection points, you are giving
your subject more emphasis than if it is right in the
middle of the photo. The intersection points can also
work if there is more than one main subject in a photo.
Most famous photographs and paintings have the rule of
thirds applied to them in some way or another.
SIMPLICITY
The simplicity rule directs that you should keep the
items in your photo relatively simple. If your main subject
is close to the lens, then your background should be
very simple in order to avoid distractions. Another good
idea is to avoid objects or lines that lead the eye away
from your main subject.
CONTRAST
The contrast rule directs that light subjects should
be placed against dark backgrounds and vice versa.
FRAMING
The framing rule directs that using natural surroundings
mindfully can add more meaning and focus to your subject.
The surroundings could be anything such as bushes, windows,
trees or even a doorway. When using this rule be sure
to focus on the main subject and not on the surroundings
that are framing it. It is also a good idea to use a
narrow aperture (high f/stop) when using this rule in
order to create a high depth-of-field.
TEXTURE
The texture rule can add a great amount of interest
to most photos. When people see texture in a photo it
can spark their imagination and make the photo more real
to life. Texture would be a good idea when taking photos
of rocks, walls, surfaces, hands or even leaves. In order
to create texture try to compose your photo so the light
is coming from the side and therefore casting shadows
in key places.
DIAGONALS
The diagonal rule directs that diagonal elements or
lines can make a photo more dynamic. Diagonal elements
could be fence posts, roads or even tree branches.
LEADING LINES
The leading lines rule can be used to direct the eye
deeper into a photo and commonly to the main subject.
Leading lines can lure the eye to a subject by leading
to it from any side or depth of the photo. Leading lines
could be roads, rivers, tree branches or even bridges.
COLOR
The color rule is what adds interest and emotion to
your pictures. Different color configurations can inspire
and amaze viewers. Colors can also be used to accent
certain parts of a photo.
It might not be a bad idea to keep these key terms with
you when you practice taking photos. The best way to
learn and improve your composition is just to use them
often and to experiment.
Richard Schneider is a digital photography enthusiast
and founder of http://www.picturecorrect.com/ which offers tips and news about
digital photography, digital camera reviews, photoshop
tutorials and computer wallpaper.
