Good Composition is a key element of good photographs yet is something that is hard to define.
Instead of looking at composition as a set of ‘rules’ to follow - I tend to view it more as a set of ingredients that can be taken out of the pantry at any point and used to make a great ‘meal’ (photograph).
Alternatively I’ve often described it as a set of ‘tools’ that can be taken out of one’s compositional tool belt at any given time in the construction of a great image.
The key is to remember that in the same way as a chef rarely uses all the ingredients at their disposal in any dish - that a photographer rarely uses all of the ingredients of composition in the making of an image.
Today I’d like to look at five of the ingredients (or tools, or elements) of composition that I draw on in my photography. They’re not ‘rules’ - just things that I consider when setting up a shot.
Pattern
There are patterns all around us if we only learn to see them. Emphasizing and highlighting these patterns can lead to striking shots - as can highligting when patterns are broken.
Read more on using repetition and patterns in photography.
Symmetry
Depending upon the scene - symmetry can be something to go for - or to avoid completely.
A symmetrical shot with strong composition and a good point of interest can lead to a striking image - but without the strong point of interest it can be a little predictable. I prefer to experiment with both in the one shoot to see which works best.
Read more on symmetry in photography.
Texture
Image by Grant McDonald
