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Module 5: Conquering Composition & Studio Space
Words To Know
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Composition:
how elements within the frame of a photo are arranged and how they interact with one another
Guide:
a tool used to structure composition – gives direction of how to place elements within a frame
Element:
a piece of visual information that takes up room within the frame of a photo and is part of the composition
Rule:
a controlled regulation that sets a standard for visual art and when followed has a predictable outcome
Principle:
a rule that establishes how elements can be used and arranged to create pleasing compositions
Tangent:
when two objects or compositional elements come so close they almost touch, do touch, or barely overlap
05.01: Composition Intro
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What is Composition?
There are 4 basic parts that make up a photo.
- Light
- Color
- Composition
- Subject
With that in mind, it is easy to see how without a successful composition, a photo falls flat. Arguably, it is the one part of a photo that needs the most attention, as it takes up the largest role in communicating the narrative of an image (which is the entire purpose behind a photograph – capturing a moment, a story, or a feeling).
Definition: Composition is how elements within the frame of a photo are arranged and how they interact with one another.
Being intentional with the composition of a photo allows you (the photographer) to control the reactions of the viewer and helps successfully tell the story you want to tell.
In this lesson you will learn what makes a strong composition and the techniques for creating an impactful narrative that influences your viewers. These techniques have been used for centuries in all areas of art and design, making them a good foundation for understanding composition in photography as well.
We will be looking at several elements, principles, and techniques that you can apply to your work, but don’t get caught up in learning them all immediately. We are here to supply you with the information, while you learn at your own pace. The more time you take to understand and practice these techniques, the more composition will come intuitively as you photograph and plan for a shoot.