Compositional techniques Composition (visual arts)

1 compositional techniques

1.1 rule of thirds
1.2 rule of odds
1.3 rule of space
1.4 simplification

1.4.1 shallow depth of field


1.5 geometry , symmetry
1.6 creating movement
1.7 other techniques

compositional techniques

there numerous approaches or compositional techniques achieve sense of unity within artwork, depending on goals of artist. example, work of art said aesthetically pleasing eye if elements within work arranged in balanced compositional way. however, there artists such salvador dalí aim disrupt traditional composition , challenge viewer rethink balance , design elements within art works.

conventional composition can achieved number of techniques:

rule of thirds

the rule of thirds composition guide states arranging important features of image on or near horizontal , vertical lines divide image thirds horizontally , vertically visually pleasing. objective stop subject(s) , areas of interest (such horizon) bisecting image, placing them near 1 of lines divide image 3 equal columns , rows, ideally near intersection of lines.

rule of thirds: note how horizon falls close bottom grid line, , how dark areas in left third, overexposed in right third.

the rule of thirds thought simplification of golden ratio. golden ratio thought have been used artists throughout history composition guide, there little evidence support claim.

rule of odds

the rule of odds states framing object of interest number of surrounding objects, becomes more comforting eye, creates feeling of ease , pleasure. based on assumption humans tend find visual images reflect own preferences/wishes in life more pleasing , attractive.

the rule of odds suggests odd number of subjects in image more interesting number. if have more 1 subject in picture, suggestion choose arrangement @ least 3 subjects. number of subjects produces symmetries in image, can appear less natural naturalistic, informal composition.

an image of person surrounded/framed 2 other persons, instance, person in center object of interest in image/artwork, more perceived friendly , comforting viewer, image of single person no significant surroundings.

rule of space

the rule of space applies artwork (photography, advertising, illustration) picturing object(s) artist wants apply illusion of movement, or supposed create contextual bubble in viewer s mind.

this can achieved, instance, leaving white space in direction eyes of portrayed person looking, or, when picturing runner, adding white space in front of him rather behind him indicate movement.

simplification

images clutter can distract main elements within picture , make difficult identify subject. decreasing extraneous content, viewer more focus on primary objects. clutter can reduced through use of lighting, brighter areas of image tend draw eye, lines, squares , colour. in painting, artist may use less detailed , defined brushwork towards edges of picture.removing elements focus of object, taking needed components.

shallow depth of field

in photography, , (via software simulation of real lens limitations) in 3d graphics, 1 approach achieving simplification use wide aperture when shooting limit depth of field. when used in right setting, technique can place not subject of photograph out of focus.

a similar approach, given right equipment, take advantage of scheimpflug principle change plane of focus.

geometry , symmetry

a simple composition cloud , rooftop creates asymmetry.

related rule of odds observation triangles aesthetically pleasing implied shape within image. in canonically attractive face, mouth , eyes fall within corners of area of equilateral triangle. paul cézanne used triangles in compositions of still lifes. triangular format creates sense of stability , strength.

creating movement

it thought more pleasing viewer if image encourages eye move around image, rather fixating on single place or no place in particular. artists strive avoid creating compositions feel static or flat incorporating movement image. in image 2 mountains equally sized , positioned beside each other creating static , uninteresting image. in image b mountains differently sized , 1 placed closer horizon, guiding eye move 1 mountain other creating more interesting , pleasing image. feels more natural because in nature objects same size , evenly spaced.

imagea



imageb


other techniques

there should center of interest or focus in work, prevent becoming pattern in itself;
the direction followed viewer s eye should lead viewer s gaze around elements in work before leading out of picture;
the subject should not facing out of image;
exact bisections of picture space should avoided;
small, high contrast, elements have impact larger, duller elements;
the prominent subject should off-centre, unless symmetrical or formal composition desired, , can balanced smaller satellite elements
the horizon line should not divide art work in 2 equal parts positioned emphasize either sky or ground; showing more sky if painting of clouds, sun rise/set, , more ground if landscape
use of detailed areas , rest areas can aid eye in look. creating contrast between detail , lack of detail important

these principles can means of composition yet cannot applied separately should act form composition.

also, in work no spaces between objects should same. should vary in shape , size. creates more interesting image.




^ dunstan, bernard. (1979). composing paintings. london, studio vista.