The Basics Of Composition - J

The Basics Of Composition The goal of photography is to direct the viewer’s eyes, highlight information and make sense of visual chaos. The following examples will illustrate techniques used to accomplish this. Which dot should you look at? Composition Dots © 2011 by Duy Linh Tu
This images provides no additional information on
where to focus your attention.
Frames Composition Dots © 2011 by Duy Linh Tu
Framing draws the viewer’s eyes directly to the
subject of a photograph.
Frames Photo courtesy of Andrew Seaman/Tahiat Mahboob
Lines Composition Dots © 2011 by Duy Linh Tu
Lines help draw the viewer’s attention to a
particular part of the frame.
Lines Photo courtesy of Sam Guzik
Motion Blur Composition Dots © 2011 by Duy Linh Tu
Motion blur makes it easier for the viewer to focus
on the subject because it is the only static item in
the frame while everything around it is blurred.
Motion Blur Photo courtesy of Sam Guzik
Depth of Field Composition Dots © 2011 by Duy Linh Tu
Depth of field draws the viewer’s attention to the subject
because it is the only item in focus. This creates a
separation between the foreground and the background.
Depth of Field Photo courtesy of Sam Guzik
Close Up Composition Dots © 2011 by Duy Linh Tu
Close ups leave no room for confusion as to what
subject your viewers should focus on.
Close Up Photo courtesy of Sam Guzik
Silhouette Composition Dots © 2011 by Duy Linh Tu
Silhouetting draws attention to your subject by
shrouding it in complete darkness.
Silhouette Photo courtesy of Tahiat Mahboob