Photography 101: The Six Elements of Composition

Composition is the arrangement of objects in a photograph. Each object in a photograph exhibits one or more of the six elements. The point is the simplest element, and it has no dimensions. A point is either a small area of interest in the photo or the intersection of many areas of interest. The compositional elements of a photograph are generally light, shade, form. The photo’s compositional elements also have an impact on how it will be read.

Storytelling in a photo novel

It’s not an easy task to tell a story in a photo-novela. There were many technical issues encountered in the beginning years of the photo-novel. These included stereotypes, melodrama and installment techniques. Storytellers also had to contend with new media’s challenges, including how to balance action and stasis and how to control narrative rhythm and how best to make the most of the magazine layout.

Compositional elements

The rule of thirds is also applicable to the composition of photos. The rule of thirds states that lines should connect, divide and separate the important elements within a photograph. Photographs with lines can convey depth and direct the eye. They also simplify composition. You can also use other compositional elements like a horizon line if you aren’t sure where to put a line. These are some ways to make a photo stand out.

Tone

Toning is a photographic process that changes the image’s tone. There are two main types: basic and complicated toning. Toning in black and white adds one colour, typically blue. Complex toning adds two colours, such as gold and copper. Split toning is another method of toning but takes longer. You can also create a sepia tone using several different methods.

Shape

The shape of an image is a representation or its pattern. Although it may include many elements with high contrast such as a person or other objects, they are not all unique. It may also contain text or other high-contrast elements. However, all elements in a photograph have well-placed vertices. A checkerboard floor, which incorporates design principles of variety and pattern, is another example of a photo’s form.

Texture

Different emotions can be created by texture in a photograph. Texture can give a feeling of roughness or gentleness. The harsher an emotion can seem, the more negative space there is in a photograph. Smooth textures and sharp edges can convey a feeling of calm or ugliness. A photo that has both texture and sharp edges can be used to express emotion. You can create photos with good textures in many different ways.