Rules and Guidelines of Photography:
Rule of Thirds:
Balancing Elements:
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Placing your main subject off-center, as with the rule of thirds, creates a more interesting photo, but can leave a void in the scene which can make it feel empty. You should balance the "weight" of your subject by including another object of lesser importance (subordinate emphasis) to fill the space. |
Leading Lines:
When we look at a photo, our eye is naturally drawn along lines. By thinking about where you place lines you can affect the way we view the image.
Use of Lines:
Symmetry and Pattern:
Viewpoints:
You are your viewer. Your camera is the eye. Depending on your viewpoint, you will create a different mood or feeling, making objects or subjects seem equal, dominate or subordinate.
Framing:
Cropping:
Perspective:
Odd Numbers:
The rule of odds states that images are more visually appealing when there is an odd number of subjects. For example, if you are going to place more than one person in a photograph, don't use two, use 3, 5 or 7. Studies have shown that people are actually more at ease and comfort when viewing imagery with an odd number of subjects. |
Space:
In order to portray movement, context and the idea that the photo is bigger than just the part you are seeing, you need to leave clutter free "white" spaces. Leaving space in the direction a subject is looking or moving will allow for the viewer to wonder what is just beyond the boundaries of the photo. |