Digital Photographya form of design

Elements & PrinciplesThe elements and principles of art and design are the

building blocks artists use to create a work of art.

The Elements are TOOLS – the things we use to make a work of art.

The Principles are RULES – the way we use the elements to make a work of art.

PrinciplesRhythm | Movement | Pattern | Balance | Proportion

Variety | Emphasis | Harmony

Rhythmrepeating movement in a composition

Movement use of elements to guide your eyes – physically makes your

eyes follow elements through the image

Patternthe repetition of elements (shapes, forms, lines etc.)

Balance equalizing the perceived weight/size of elements

Balance equalizing the perceived weight/size of elements

The image to the right is radially balanced – its

symmetry spiraling form a center point.

Proportionthe size of a single element in relation to the whole

Varietydifferences, contrast, opposites and diverse choice

Emphasisthe focal point – the main interest of the image

Harmonyrelation of various elements which compliment one another

UnityUnity is the most important of all the principles – so much

so that for success in unity, the artist must use all of the principles and elements together.

In this class we will discuss Unity in reference to series of photographs. This means that although a collection of ten photos may be different there should be some element or

principle which unifies them.

Unityquality of wholeness or oneness by using all the

elements and principles harmoniously