Composition

[Ez2bFish]

I am curious about the word "Composition" as it pertains to photography. What is its meaning?

Yes, I could easily google the answer or read a book to find the information I seek...but I would rather post this question to the members of PA (especially the photographers on PA).

Recently I posted 2 pics for a Photo contest and on one particular photo I received the same comment from 2 different members, "nice composition". :) Now I have my beliefs as to what it means...just curious what it means to others here at PA. :thanx:

[Happy]

Yeah there's the 'rule of thirds' but when I look at a photo with composition in mind, I tend to look at how the whole image holds together. Can I see what the photographer had in mind? Is the photo properly balanced? Can the viewer's eye travel through the photo with ease? Does the photo emit a mood? Is the photo more than a snapshot or was thought put into it? Different questions go through my mind with different styles.

Basically photo composition is basically how the main subject is positioned, where the camera is set at, etc. It's what results in what the viewer sees within the borders of the image.

[Dave]

But always remember the Golden Rule is practice, practice, practice! :D

Now go find Ken Rockwall's excellent site

[Happy]

Though Ken Rockwell's site has alot of camera reviews and some interesting articles, I didn't see anything that focused specifically on composition basics or how to compose a photo.

[Dave]

picky :)

[burndog]

simply put, I think of composition as how individual elements are arranged within a given image or design.

There are a few basic so-called rules that are generally effective, but of course rules are only guidelines, that said I think it best that one be aware of them, and have a reason when breaking them.

To study composition check out the old masters paintings and you will quickly see examples of the rule of thirds, using lines and curves to draw the viewers eye to the intended subject and other basic guidelines of composition.

Composition in any kind of 2D art is extremely important in my view. Once you get the basics down you can use them to more easily convey your intended feeling about your subject to the viewer.

To me at least, composition and concept are the toughest to master. I think anyone can learn the technical aspects easily...just read the manuals. Mastering concept and how to capture it through composition and technical ability is what makes a good photographer stand out from the snapshot artist, at least in my opinion. Now one that note, I am trying to learn, practice and improve like everyone else.