COMPOSITION & the ELEMENTS of VISUAL DESIGN

Many photographers on purchasing a new camera are preoccupied with learning its various
features and controls and no doubt, this is important in obtaining correctly exposed images
and an appropriate depth of field. However, once the basic operation of the camera is
mastered, one needs to direct their attention to seeing and composing effective images.
Effective images are those that command attention and communicate some feeling to an
audience. Capturing a "feeling" and your viewers' attention is a demanding task that requires
practice, experimentation and study. Studying the basic elements of visual design and
understanding how they work will help new photographers improve their composition, but
simply following rules does not guarantee success. Furthermore, how an audience responds to
an image depends on their past experiences (memory), interests, and what it is that they are
looking for. This is why the same picture often receives a variety of responses from different
viewers. To create effective images a photographer must understand the way people respond
to various kinds of visual organization. This involves learning the vocabulary of design,
viewing examples of artwork that utilize effective design elements, and actively implementing
components of design into the process of photography.

Line

A line represents a "path" between two points. A line can be straight, curved, vertical,
horizontal, diagonal, or zigzag. Lines imply motion and suggest direction or orientation. A line
can also be implied, that is filled in by the mind when several points are positioned
geometrically within a frame. Placing four dots on a page in the shape of a square can imply the
points are linked as the mind searches for recognizable patterns. The direction and orientation
of a line can also imply certain feelings. Horizontal lines imply tranquility and rest, whereas
vertical lines imply power and strength. Oblique lines imply movement, action and change.
Curved lines or S shaped lines imply quiet, calm and sensual feelings. Lines that converge
imply depth, scale and distance - a fence or roadway converges into the distance provides the
illusion that a flat two-dimensional image has three-dimensional depth. A line is an effective
element of design because it can lead the viewer's eye. To create more effective photographs
actively look for lines and arrange them within your viewfinder to invoke specific feelings.
Shape

Shapes are the result of closed lines. However shapes can be visible without lines when an
artist establishes a color area or an arrangement of objects within the camera's viewfinder.
Some primary shapes include circles, squares, triangles and hexagons all of which appear in
nature in some form or another. Space is defined and determined by shapes and forms.
Positive space is where shapes and forms exist; negative space is the empty space around
shapes and forms. For images to have a sense of balance positive and negative space can be
used to counter balance each other.

Form - Light & Dark

Form refers to the three-dimensional quality of an object, which is due in part to light, and
dark areas. When light from a single direction (e.g. our sun) hits an object, part of the object is
in shadow. Light and dark areas within an image provide contrast that can suggest volume.
Factors that can affect our feelings towards an image include the direction of the light source,
from above or below, and the gentleness or abruptness of the half tones. Light coming from
behind a subject can form a silhouette resulting in object that is completely black against a
lighter colored background. Silhouettes appear as two-dimensional shapes lacking form. The
absence of color often enhances our perception of form for instance in black and white
photographs. Light emitted from above and to the side when applied to portraits creates what
is often referred to as "Rembrandt lighting". This form of lighting emphasizes edges and depth.
In landscape photography oblique lighting occurs early and late in the day where it enhances
the natural texture of the landscape and is often accompanied by warm or cool color casts.

Color

There has been a tremendous amount of research on how color affects human beings and
some of this research suggests that men and women may respond to colors differently. Color
affects us emotionally, with different colors evoking different emotions. In short color has the
capacity to affect the human nervous system.

The vocabulary of color includes:

Hue: refers to the names of the primary colors, red, green and blue.

Value: lightness and darkness of the color - the amount of white or black added.
Intensity: the purity or saturation of the color

Monochromatic color: use of one color where only the value of the color changes

Analogous colors: colors that are adjacent to each other on the color wheel, e.g. yellow and
green

Analogous colors next to each other on the color wheel "get along" and are referred to as being
harmonious. Analogous colors are often used in visual design and have a soothing affect.

Complementary colors: colors opposite to each other on the color wheel, e.g. Blue-violet and
yellow, represent colors positioned across from each other on the color wheel. Complimentary
colors exhibit more contrast when positioned adjacent to each other -for example yellow
appears more intense when positioned on or beside blue or violet (see picture below).

In the photograph above - green and yellow are analogous colors that harmonize where as the
violet color of the shooting stars appears more intense against a complementary colored
background.
Warm colors include: yellows, red and orange we associate these with blood, sun and fire.

Sunrise behind a popular tree at Writing-on-Stone has a warm fire like feel to it.

Cool colors include: violet, blue and green because of our association with snow and ice.

Banff Springs Hotel with light blue filter emphasizes the coldness of winter (Monochromatic
color)

Colors are called warm or cool because of our association with various elements in our
surroundings. Red, yellow and orange are considered warm colors whereas blue, green and
violet are considered cool colors. These contrasts are relative since yellow-green are cool next
to red, orange or yellow, but would be considered warm next to blue-violet. Photographers can
position different colors in an image to maximize contrast between them and also to provide
perspective. Perceptually, cool colors tend to recede into the distance whereas warm colors
appear to advance (see image below).

Loaf Mountain - warm glow of sunrise advances where the cool blue shadows recede.
Texture

Texture refers to the surface quality or "feel" of an object - smooth, rough, soft, etc. Textures
may be actual (felt with touch - tactile) or implied (suggested by the way an artist has created
the work of art -visual). Texture is often emphasized in oblique lighting as it strikes the objects
from one side.

Composition

Organizing the various elements within the frame of the viewfinder in order to create an
effective design is more challenging than it might seem at first. A painter can position the
elements where they want, whereas a photographer must search, find and organize visual
elements within the camera viewfinder. Although a photographer can sometimes "arrange"
objects in a natural environment such as leaves, this often results in a contrived looking
picture. Nature is not perfect and variation within organization leads to greater interest.
Effective composition of natural images is always a balance between arranging elements
within the view finder and allowing a certain amount of disorder.

The decision-making processes we make when taking a photograph starts first with being able
to see possibilities. What we see depends on what we are interested in, what we are looking
for and what our minds are prepared to show us. Seeing, in short, involves the mind and our
memory as much as it does our eyes. Improving our visual sensitivity requires quieting our
minds, relaxing, and preparing by learning as much as we can about our preferred subjects.
Once we see things that are of interest, then we need to isolate parts of the scene, and organize
the important visual elements within our viewfinder to effectively convey how we feel about
them.
Unity

Unity refers to an ordering of all elements in an image so that each contributes to a unified
aesthetic effect so that the image is seen as a whole. Failing to accomplish this results in the
premature termination of the viewer's experience - they look away. There are a number of
ways to achieve unity to attract and keep the viewers attention.
Dominance and Subordination:

An artist or photographer attempts to control the sequence in which visual events in the frame
are observed and the amount of attention each element receives. Making an element dominant
can be done through size and color. Large objects dominate smaller ones and warm colored
objects dominate cooler pale colored objects. Another way of achieving dominance is through
positioning various elements within the frame. A centrally located object will draw more
attention then one at the periphery. However the center is not the best place to position the
most dominant element - usually just to one side of the center is more effective.
Another method to achieve dominance is through convergence or radiation or lines. The eye
tends to follow these lines to the point where they converge.

Veins on this leaf converge at a single point making it the dominant element in the image.

Dominance can also be achieved through nonconformity i.e. difference or exception. If all the
elements are similar and one is different in color, tone or shape- it will stand out and become
dominant. The brown cattail leaf below is dominant because it is different from those around
it.

Coherence
Coherence refers to the belonging together or the various parts of the artwork. In reality these
parts may be unrelated, but within the confines of the image their color, shapes, and size form
a sense of unity. Visual coherence can be achieved through the use of analogous color and color
tonality. It can also be achieve through similarity of shape, color size or texture. However too
much similarity can lead to boredom - we need some variety to add "spice" to the image.

This image of smooth stones uses similarity in shape, size and colors to provide coherence.

Balance
Balance implies that the visual elements within the frame have a sense of weight. Large objects
generally weigh more than small objects and dark objects weigh more than light colored
objects. The position of the elements is also critical. We unconsciously assume the center of a
picture corresponds to a fulcrum. A heavy weight on one side can be balanced by a lighter
weight on the other side if the lighter weight is located at a greater distance from the fulcrum.
Another way to achieve balance is through symmetry. Reflections of the landscape in still
water are an example of almost perfect symmetry. Reflections can take on an abstract quality
that resembles a Rorschach inkblot used in a psychological testing.

Rorschach inkblot created by folding a piece of paper covered and

filled with ink to form a symmetrical pattern.

Positive and Negative Space

Positive space is where shapes and forms exist; negative space is the empty space around
shapes and forms. In the photo below the black area is negative space and it serves to balance
the area in which the marmot and rock occupy. Areas of a picture that contain "nothing" are
important visual elements that provide balance in an image.

Rhythm

Rhythm refers to the regular repeating occurrence of elements in the scene just as in music it
refers to the regular occurrence of certain musical notes over time. In photography the
repetition of similar shapes sets up a rhythm that makes seeing easier and more enjoyable.
Rhythm is soothing and our eyes beg to follow rhythmic patterns. To be effective, rhythm also
requires some variability - rhythm that is too similar or perfect may be boring. Therefore when
composing your images look for repetition with variation. For instance if you are
photographing a fence - one that is perfect will not hold a viewers interest for long, but one in
which some of the posts are bent, broken, larger or smaller will generate more viewer interest.
Differences in the height of the fence posts add interest to an otherwise monotonic rhythm.
The yellow marigold is balanced by the negative space of the complimentary colored blue sky.

Proportion - Golden Ratio and Rule of Thirds

Proportion refers the size relationship of visual elements to each other and to the whole
picture. One of the reasons proportion is often considered important in composition is that
viewers respond to it emotionally. Proportion in art has been examined for hundreds of years,
long before photography was invented. One proportion that is often cited as occurring
frequently in design is the Golden mean or Golden ratio.

Golden Ratio: 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34 etc. Each succeeding

number after 1 is equal to the sum of the two preceding numbers.
The Ratio formed 1:1.618 is called the golden mean - the ratio of
bc to ab is the same as ab to ac. If you divide each smaller window
again with the same ratio and joing their corners you end up with
a logarithmic spiral. This spiral is a motif found frequently
throughout nature in shells, horns and flowers (and my Science &
Art logo).

The Golden Mean or Phi occurs frequently in

nature and it may be that humans are genetically
programmed to recognize the ratio as being
pleasing. Studies of top fashion models revealed
that their faces have an abundance of the 1.618
ratio.

Many photographers and artists are aware of the rule of thirds, where a picture is divided into
three sections vertically and horizontally and lines and points of intersection represent places
to position important visual elements. The golden ratio and its application are similar although
the golden ratio is not as well known and its' points of intersection are closer together. Moving
a horizon in a landscape to the position of one third is often more effective than placing it in
the middle, but it could also be placed near the bottom one quarter or sixth. There is nothing
obligatory about applying the rule of thirds. In placing visual elements for effective
composition, one must assess many factors including color, dominance, size and balance
together with proportion. Often a certain amount of imbalance or tension can make an image
more effective. This is where we come to the artists' intuition and feelings about their subject.
Each of us is unique and we should strive to preserve those feelings and impressions about our
chosen subject that are different.
 Golden mean grid applied a simple
Rule of thirds grid applied to a landscape
Composition
On analyzing some of my favourite photographs by laying down grids (thirds or golden ratio in
Adobe Photoshop) I find that some of my images do indeed seem to correspond to the rule of
thirds and to a lesser extent the golden ratio, however many do not. I suspect an analysis of
other photographers' images would have similar results. There are a few web sites and
references to scientific studies that have studied proportion in art and photography but I have
not come across any systematic studies that quantified their results- maybe I just need to look
harder (see link for more information about the use of the golden
ratio http://photoinf.com/Golden_Mean/).

In summary, proportion is an element of design you should always be aware of but you must
also realize that other design factors along with your own unique sensitivity about the subject
dictates where you should place items in the viewfinder. Understanding proportion and
various elements of design are guidelines only and you should always follow your instincts
combined with your knowledge. Never be afraid to experiment and try something drastically
different, and learn from both your successes and failures. Also try to be open minded about
new ways of taking pictures, new techniques, ideas - surround yourself with others that share
an open mind and enthusiasm and you will improve your compositional skills quickly.
35 mm film has the dimensions 36 mm by 24 mm (3:2 ratio) - golden mean ration of 1.6 to 1
Points of intersection are recommended as places to position important elements in your
picture.

Chaos - Simplicity Versus Complexity.

Chaos is a disordered state of elements and it is found frequently in nature. The goal of many
photographers is to take a picture that exhibits some underlying organization so the viewer
sees what the artists intends for them to see, but leaves enough chaos within the frame of the
image so the viewer has to put forth some effort to explore and fully appreciate the image. New
photographers often include too many elements in their images and can often improve their
composition by removing unessential elements. Beyond a certain point, however an image that
is too simple fails to hold ones attention (e.g. single leaf above has interesting elements but
after a few moments I find little to hold my attention). Compare this to an image I took with my
4 x 5 camera of the rainforest shot below, and I find the rainforest image has so many textures
and patterns that I can look at and explore the image for extended periods of time and still
continue to discover things I have not seen before. The ability to introduce and handle complex
elements within the frame of an image and still produce an effective composition requires a
maturation of seeing that takes time to develop. I have also found that larger film formats
encourage compositions with more detail and complexity then using smaller digital and 35
mm film based cameras. In short, the size and format of camera you use will also influence
what you shoot, and how you compose your images.
Summary & Conclusion
Understanding elements of visual design and how they can affect our emotions can also help us
make our photographic images more effective. However, keep in mind that no rule or guideline
can ever guarantee success. A successful image depends upon a multitude of things that must
come together including: timing, lighting, color, composition, and an audience sensitive to
what it is you are trying to communicate. It is likely that many artists carry out design
intuitively and arrange elements so they "feel right" and since art is in part a way of expressing
our feelings to others no other guiding principle may be required. As Freeman Patterson put it
so eloquently "Good composition is always harmonious with the design of the material being
photographed", Art of Seeing 1985. Elements of design can be compared to the scales in music,
they are starting points around which music is made but the elements are by themselves only
building blocks. In conclusion, an understanding of the elements of design will not by
themselves make you a better a photographer, but they can provide a framework in which to
evaluate images and their effectiveness.

Another way to improve composition is to compare your images with those of others whose
work you admire or respect. Mimicry is one way to begin to develop your skills and learning to
copy the styles of certain artists is in part the road to towards developing your own style,
although many artists may not admit to it. Take those stylistic elements you like and then
integrate them into your own point of view. Evaluate and compare your work both technically
and aesthetically against those of other photographers. Be realistic and critical when you
evaluate your own images and edit your images ruthlessly. The better you become the more
critical you will become of you own work and those of others. Listen to what others have to say
when they view your images, what they like, what they don't like but always be true to yourself
and what your vision is. My wife may not be knowledgeable about design, but if she responds
to image I know others will too.

One method to measure your success is when others wish to own or purchase your work. If
you don't have to sell your photography to pay the rent or eat - you have a freedom that many
professional photographers do not. You can take photographs for the sheer joy of it.
Fashion & Style Tips
Fashion Tips

Note that it is important to dress appropriately based on the occasion and time of
day. Your dress will vary depending on whether you are at work attending to
business, attending a party, or a picnic. Day time outfits should be different to night
time wear. Choose the right colors for your apparel. Wear clothes that fit well.
Don't wear too much makeup. Makeup is generally different for day time and night
time events. Pay attention to your hair style. Wear shoes that complement your
style.

Fashion Tips to look younger

It is common knowledge that the correct dress can make you look younger. Skin
care products (such as anti-aging creams) are popular with women to help them
maintain their youth. Hair styles, cosmetics and makeup and various fashion
accessories can be combined together to give you a youthful look. It is important to
keep up with the latest fashion trends. Styles change each year. One year long pants
are in fashion, the other year cropped, cuffed or short pants are popular. Hair styles
also keep changing. Colors, prints and patterns of fabrics (slik, cotton, etc.) vary
year to year. Fashion accessories such as jewelry and shoes also change in style
frequently. There are a lot of over-weight women who want to look slimmer.
The right choice of apparel and fashion accessories can help you look slimmer. For
example, avoid shiny fabrics, don't wear over-sized clothes, use solid colors instead
of patterns, vertical stripes are preferably to horizontal stripes if you want to look
slimmer, wear undergarments with a good support.

Common Fashion Tips for Men & Women

The correct fashion style can help you look beautiful and smart. For example,
suppose you are a woman with large hips. You don't want to wear clothing that
accentuates that area. If you wear clothing with contrasting colors on that area, it
will appear larger. In our example, if you wear a dark top with white pants, your
hips will look larger! An excellent color for your summer season clothing is white! In
the hot summer, white apparel will make you look fresh and appealing. If you want
your style of fashion to make an impact, make use of fashionable accessories such
as beautiful jewelry, stylish handbags, designer shoes along with clothing of
contrasting colors. For example a black and white combination of tops, skirts,
scarves, jewelry and handbag will definitely add pizzazz to your appearance. It is
advisable to wear white apparel mainly in the summer season. A white T-shirt with
jeans is a good combination. White clothing can also be worn with bright colors such
as green or red. You need to experiment to find out the best color combination to
enhance your personal image. Don't forget to include suitable fashion accessories.

Fashion Tips for the Professional

The basic fashion secret for the professional is that when at work, your clothing
style should blend in with the environment rather than have a distracting influence.
Your style of fashion should project an image of a polished professional who knows
what he or she is doing. A well-tailored suit is a very important fashion statement.
Designer clothing is fine as long as it blends in with the surroundings. Another
important fashion tip is that your style should reflect a personal touch. Since we
are talking about fashion trends for the working professional, make sure that you
don't wear very sexy transparent clothing, or very casual clothing like a pair of shorts
or jeans. Comfortable apparel is required at work. But make sure that your clothes,
though maybe casual, are wrinkle free and smart. To get an idea about what fashion
trend or fashion style to follow, see how your boss dresses up. The boss's apparel
can give you good fashion ideas for yourself. Selecting the right kind of jewelry is
equally important. Jangling jewelry is best avoided. Pearl jewelry, silver jewelry,
copper jewelry or even leather jewelry can be worn as long as it is not highly
attention grabbing. The handbags that ladies carry can make an important fashion
statement. Designer handbags are okay for work, as long as they help you carry the
image of an organised and efficient woman. Basic cleanliness and hygiene are an
integral part of a fashion conscious individual. Ensure that your body is clean and
odor free. Make use of a good perfume, remember that it should have a pleasant,
mild fragrance. Strong scents are best avoided at the workplace. Wear well-polished
and comfortable shoes. A good hair style makes an important fashion statement. Use
an appropriate nail polish if so desired, but do ensure that you have well-manicured
nails.
 Women and Fashion

One of the roles of fashion is to hide the flaws and emphasise the good features.
Understand your body and learn what makes you look good. A woman must choose
an appropriate wardrobe. For example, in hot climates natural fibres are
preferable. Light and bright colors are preferable to bold loud colors. Makeup must
be selected properly. Heavy makeup in a hot climate can block skin pores and cause
acne. Try and use waterproof makeup. After applying makeup brush your face with
powder to set your makeup properly. Hair care and hair styles require careful
attention if you are fashion and image conscious. The dress rules for the professional
or business woman suggests a generally conservative look.