Elements & Principles of Photography

1. Leading Lines - a composition technique where the viewer is attracted to lines that lead directly to the principle subject in the image

The viewer is focused on the railroad tracks lines. 

2. Vertical Lines - vertical lines have the ability to convey moods such as power or strength also by playing up the height of the subject

The vertical lines of the beach huts emphasizes the height.














3. Horizontal Lines - horizontal lines convey 'stability' or 'rest'

The horizontal lines of the flowers show rest in the field. 










4. Diagonal Lines - diagonal lines draw an image's viewer through the photograph and create points of interest that give an image of depth 

The diagonal lines of the wires draw interest to the birds in the middle. 















5. Curved Lines - curved lines adds beauty and allows the eyes to explore an image freely.

The curved lines make the picture interesting.












6. Symmetrical Balance - when one or more identical or similar subjects are repeated symmetrical on each sides of a given point

The symmetry in the escalators gives a sense of balance to the photo.









7. Asymmetrical Balance - when one or more dissimilar subjects are balancing on each side of a given point

The one cup is opposite of the stack of cups.











8. Unity - occurs when all of the elements of a piece combine to make a balanced, complete whole

All of the hands in the circle combine to make a balanced photo









9. Variety - combining elements of art to make intricate and complex relationships

The various flowers express a complex relationship








10. Movement/Rhythm - when a photo has a flow of objects and the viewer's eyes are brought to a focal point

The viewer's eyes are brought to the bear and there is movement in the background









11. Emphasis - an area or object that is a focal point in the photo

The focal point is on the astronaut










12. Proportion/Scale - the relationship between objects or parts of the whole

The space between the stones create scale











13. Repetition/Pattern - when you repeat a certain size, shape or color to add strength to the photo

The repetition of the pencils adds strength to the photograph










14. Bird's Eye View - When the photograph is from a higher perspective

The camera is looking down on the people in the pool.










15. Worm's Eye View - When the photograph is from a lower perspective

The camera is looking up at the mushroom.








16. Horizon Line - when a perpendicular line, at eye level is evident in a picture

The horizon line can be seen where the buildings meet the water.







17. Rule of Thirds - occurs whenever you apply the guide lines and the image flows within the boxes

The subject is located on a crash point, which is a prime spot for subjects, since our eyes go directly there.






18. Framing - when you use other objects to frame your subject 

The gate is used to frame the building.











19. Simplicity - occurs whenever the subject is placed next to a plain background

The background is plain and the focus is all on the flowers. 







20. Texture - when the detail of the surface can be seen

The detail of the fur can easily be seen.