11 Best Photo Composition Rules for Beginners

Summary

In this video, Josh discusses the importance of composition in photography, emphasizing how it elevates photos regardless of the subject or location. He introduces 11 key composition rules, including perspective, negative space, filling the frame, symmetry, leading lines, and framing, among others. Josh uses his own photography examples to illustrate each rule, offering practical tips on applying them. He concludes by encouraging viewers to experiment and break the 'rules' creatively. It's a useful guide for both beginner and seasoned photographers aiming to enhance their compositional skills.

Takeaways

• 📸 Composition is key: Proper composition elevates any photo, regardless of the subject or location.
• 🖼️ Definition of composition: It refers to what is included and excluded in the frame and how elements are organized.
• 👀 Perspective matters: Experimenting with high and low angles can dramatically alter the impact of your subject.
• 🌿 Negative space: Leaving space around your subject can create a more dramatic, isolated, and interesting effect.
• 🔍 Fill the frame: Zoom in and focus entirely on your subject when the background is too busy or distracting.
• 🔄 Symmetry and reflections: Symmetry creates balance and reflections (in water, glass, etc.) add aesthetic appeal.
• ➡️ Leading lines: Lines like roads, buildings, or paths guide the viewer's eye through the photo, creating structure.
• 🏞️ Framing: Using objects like doors, trees, or windows to frame a subject can draw attention and add depth.
• 📐 Rule of thirds: Aligning elements along horizontal and vertical thirds of the frame makes photos more dynamic.
• 🌗 Contrast and lighting: Playing with shadows and bright spots emphasizes the subject and adds depth to the composition.

Q & A

What is composition in photography, and why is it important?

Composition in photography refers to how elements are arranged within a photo. It is crucial because it helps direct the viewer's attention, enhances the visual appeal, and can elevate a photo, regardless of how interesting the subject or location is.

How does perspective and vantage point impact photo composition?

Perspective and vantage point affect how a subject is framed and perceived. By shooting from different angles, like getting low to the ground or high up, you can create more dynamic and interesting compositions that emphasize different aspects of the subject and the background.

What is the concept of negative space in photography?

Negative space refers to the area around the subject that is intentionally left empty or simple. It gives the subject room to breathe, making the composition feel less crowded and more dramatic, often emphasizing isolation or simplicity.

When should you fill the frame in a photo?

Filling the frame is useful when you want to cut out distracting elements in the background or highlight the subject's details. This technique works well in portrait photography or when the background is too busy to include.

What role does symmetry play in photography composition?

Symmetry creates a balanced, harmonious image that is aesthetically pleasing. It is often found in reflections, architecture, or natural scenes and gives a photo a sense of stability and calmness.

How can leading lines and diagonals be used effectively in a photo?

Leading lines and diagonals guide the viewer’s eye through the photo, directing attention to key elements. Common sources include roads, trails, or architectural features, which can create structure and flow in a composition.

What is framing in photography, and how does it help highlight the subject?

Framing involves using elements like doors, windows, or branches to create a natural boundary around the subject, drawing focus to it. It helps emphasize the subject and adds depth and context to the image.

What is juxtaposition, and how is it used in street photography?

Juxtaposition involves placing contrasting elements together in a photo to create an interesting or thought-provoking image. In street photography, it might pair people with artwork or objects that either complement or contrast with them to tell a visual story.

What is the rule of thirds in photography?

The rule of thirds divides an image into three equal sections both horizontally and vertically. Placing key elements along these lines or at their intersections can create a more balanced and visually appealing composition.

Why is balance important in photography composition?

Balance ensures that no part of the image overpowers the rest, making the composition feel harmonious. It involves distributing visual weight across the photo by placing elements strategically to complement each other.

What is contrast lighting, and how can it be used to improve a photo?

Contrast lighting involves using areas of shadow and light to highlight the subject or create mood. Placing the subject in a well-lit area or along the edge of shadow can add drama and focus to the composition.

Why are photography rules considered guidelines rather than strict rules?

Photography rules are flexible guidelines meant to help improve compositions, but breaking them can lead to creative and unique results. Mastering the rules allows photographers to know when and how to deviate for artistic expression.