Rules of Composition

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In art, “The term composition means ‘putting together.’ It can be thought of as the organization of the elements of art according to the principles of art.” (Composition (visual arts)“Composition in photography refers to the position of elements inside the frame and how they interact with each other. Ultimately, composition is about the visual structure of your image.” (Mireles). What does composition refer to in art?

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Rules of Composition

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What it is: Refers to an imaginary grid drawn across a photo area that breaks the image into nine equal squares.

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Rule of Thirds

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What is the principle that states if the main visual components (the subject(s)) lie on or near the lines, then the image often tends to look ‘right’?

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Rule of Thirds

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What it is: Having an Odd Number of subjects in a photo. An odd number of subjects in an image often has a more ‘natural’, symmetrical or balanced feel than an even number.

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Rule of Even and Odds

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Why it matters: An even number of ‘things’ in an image can sometimes create a feeling of tension or a slightly un-natural look while an odd number of ‘things’ can often create a feeling of harmony or balance

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Rule of Even and Odds

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What it is: Placing subjects in an order that “forms” a triangle.

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Rule of Triangles

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Why it matters: Triangles have 3 sides and tend to form stable, solid-looking. Triangles compositions were often used for family since triangles tend to connote stability and solidarity

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Rule of Triangles

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What it is: The area in a photo where the subject is looking towards. Unfilled Space.

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Rule of Space/Look Room

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Why it matters: Gives the viewer an idea of what they are looking at and puts the subject slightly off center. Space can also help create an impression of movement.

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Rule of Space/Look Room

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What it is: The subject has nothing distracting surrounding or behind it.

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Simplification/Plain Background