The Rules of PhotographyUnit 57: Photography and Photographic Practice Terminology

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Rule of thirdsPhotos are divided into thirds with 2 imaginary lines both vertically and horizontally. This makes 3 columns, 3 rows and 9 sections in the image. Important elements and leading lines are placed on or near the imaginary lines and where the lines intersect. The idea is that an off centre composition is more pleasing to the eye and looks more natural than one where the subject is placed right in the middle of the frame.

Examples of Rule of thirds

Framing

Framing in photography is used to focus the viewers attention on the subject. It is a techniques used by a lot of photographers. A lot of framing is done using Photoshop etc. however natural framing can often be more striking and interesting.

Leading Lines

Leading lines in photography are used to take the viewers attention from the foreground of the image to the background. These images are usually taken outside, using things such as buildings and road markings.

Balancing Elements

Balancing elements means that the weight of the subject will be balanced out by including another object of a lesser importance to fill the space.

Symmetry & Patterns

There are many aspects of symmetry and pattern wherever we look. These make for very interesting photography pieces. They create a very strong focal point – even more so when it is a mirror image.

Depth of Field

This is the distance between the closest and furthest away object in strong definition. Shallow depth of field is where a small section of a photograph is in focus, and everything else is not.