1. Emphasis
Definition: Emphasis is a principle of art which occurs any time an element of a piece is given dominance by the artist. In other words, the artist
makes part of the work stand out, in order to draw the viewer's eye there first.
In this photo that I grabbed online, the color of the insect makes it stand out and is the first thing the viewer's eye is drawn to.
2. Horizontal Lines
Definition: In a photograph, horizontal lines in particular need to be completely level across the frame, and horizontal lines tend to convey a sense of peace and relaxation. Horizontal lines also suggest stability.
In this picture, the water and clouds create horizontal lines that make the picture relaxing.
3. Repetition/Pattern
Definition: When you repeat a certain size, or shape or color you add strength to the overall image.
In this picture, the pattern of colors in the grapefruit is repeated.
4. Bird's Eye View
Definition: A view from a high angle as if seen by a bird in flight.
This photo was taken at an extreme angle looking down.
5. Vertical Lines
Definition: Vertical lines convey a sense of power or spirituality.
In this picture, the trees appear grand and reach toward the heavens.
6. Texture
Definition: The images of texture photography derive at least part of their impact through the use of texture. Texture can be formed by surface irregularities, like the surface of an old brick or by small forms that reside on a surface, like that found on a pile of coins.
This picture is a good example of texture photography because the texture of the snake's skin is very detailed.
7. Symmetrical Balance
Definition: Symmetrical balance is seen in perfectly centered compositions or those with mirror images. In a design with only two elements they would be almost identical or have nearly the same visual mass.
This picture is a good example because the object is equal on both sides
8. Unity
Definition: A principle of art, unity occurs when all of the elements of a piece combine to make a balanced, harmonious, complete whole.
This picture is a good example because there is a repetition of shape, form, space, and value.
9. Rule of Thirds
Definition: The rule of thirds is one of the main “rules” in art and
photographic composition and stems from the theory that the human eye naturally gravitates to intersection points that occur when an image is split into thirds.
This photo is a good example because the important parts of the photo are along the thirds lines.
10. Diagonal Lines
Definition: Diagonal lines generally work well to draw the eye of an image’s viewer through the photograph. They create points of interest as they intersect with other lines and often give images depth by suggesting perspective. They can also add a sense of action to an image and add a dynamic looks and feel.
This photo is a good example because the diagonal lines lead the viewer's eye along the object and suggest motion.
11. Variety
Definition: Differences achieved by changing elements in a
composition to add interest.
This photograph is a good example because there is a variety to the different types of bread that adds interest.
12. Simplicity
Definition: Simplicity is the method of keeping the information in a photograph relatively simple. If your main subject is close, then your background should be very simple to avoid distractions.
This photo is a good example because the subject is singled out from the background and there is no clutter to detract from the subject.
13. Asymmetrical Balance
Definition: Asymmetrical design is typically off-center or created with an odd or mismatched number of disparate elements. When the left and right sides of the design are unequal it is said to have asymmetrical balance.
In this picture, the left and right sides are uneven.
14. Movement/Rhythm
Definition: Rhythm is the repetition or alternation of elements, often with defined intervals between them. Rhythm can create a sense of movement, and can establish pattern and texture.
This picture is a good example because the viewer's eye travels along the staircase.
15. Leading Lines
Definition: Leading lines are lines within an image that leads the eye to another point in the image, or occasionally, out of the image.
This image is a good example because the road lines lead the eye through the picture.
16. Proportion/Scale
Definition: Proportion refers to the relative size and scale of the various elements in a design. The issue is the relationship between objects, or parts, of a whole.
This image is a good example because the one girl appears at least ten times larger than the other.
17. Horizon Line
Definition: A constructive line, either drawn or imagined, which passes through the point of sight, and is the chief line in the projection upon which all verticals are fixed, and upon which all vanishing points are found.
This picture is a good example because the horizon line is very distinct and emphasizes the sky.
18. Framing
Definition: Framing in photography is a technique used to project an image so as to completely focus a viewer's attention on the subject.
This picture is a beautiful example of framing because the archways frame the city below.
19. Worm's Eye View
Definition: A perspective seen from below or from a low or inferior position.
This picture is a good example because it was taken at an extreme angle looking up.
20. Curved Lines
Definition: Curved lines present a sense of grace, smoothness, and dignity to a photograph.
This image is a good example because is represents an s-shaped curve.
