Good Composition Provides a Visual Balance
You know how there are times when you will look at an image and something it just feels off? You may not be able to pinpoint it but you know something is not quite working for you. Usually, it’s because the composition is weak, and having good composition is key to any successful photograph.
You want your image to flow easy on the eyes. Your eyes will have an entrance point, “walk through” the image and exit.
Some Techniques
Here are a few techniques you can use to achieve a good composition.
- Symmetry and Pattern
- Rule of Thirds
- Leading Lines
- Framing
- Asymmetrical Balance
- Golden Ratio
- Radial Balance
Fool Proof
For a great fall back to achieving a good composition every time, use the Rule of Thirds. Below you see the Rule of Thirds grid and you also see it over the image of a woman boxer. Overlaying the feature part of your subject over any of the intersecting lines will create a balanced image.
A Few Different Examples Using the Rule of Thirds
TIP: As a commercial stock photographer, you aren’t shooting for a specific project but for some of your captures consider allowing adequate copy space in your images. It will create a more user-friendly composition for a graphic designer and has the potential to sell more easily. The Rule of Thirds is an easy way to achieve this.