Chapter 5. Brush Up on Composition

In This Chapter

  • Composition basics

  • Understanding symmetry

  • Composing with color

  • Controlling focus and depth of field

  • Additional composition techniques

Although the technical aspects of an image are important, image content and composition carry equal or greater weight. After all, a technically questionable image with a compelling subject and composition always aces a technically perfect image with a mundane subject and uninteresting composition. In this section of the book, you can brush up on composition guidelines and principles.

Composition is a skill that intrigues and challenges even the most experienced photographers. Taken at ISO 100, f/22, 1/125 sec. using a Canon EF 180mm, f/3.5L Macro USM lens.

Figure 5.1. Composition is a skill that intrigues and challenges even the most experienced photographers. Taken at ISO 100, f/22, 1/125 sec. using a Canon EF 180mm, f/3.5L Macro USM lens.

Composition Basics

Composition is the aspect of photography that many photographers strive to master. Mastering composition, however, remains a challenge for many photographers. Composition principles can help you design an image, but in the end, your personal aesthetic is the final judge. After all, for every rule of composition, there are galleries filled with pictures that break the rules, and they succeed famously.

Composition can range from strikingly simple to complex, filled with layers of content and meaning. Most photographers would agree that simple compositions are best. Simple compositions offer the advantage of being easy for the viewer ...

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