By Pen Woman Polly Curran
A work of art begins with a blank canvas, a sketch pad and, in the case of a photographer, an image waiting to be defined. A photographer creates a visual composition through the lens of the camera much like an artist composes at her easel. What makes a piece eye catching and dynamic, or calm and soothing? Incorporating the Principles of Design: color, balance, alignment, repetition, contrast and space assist in creating a composition pleasing to the eye. In this discussion we will take a look at Design Elements that are the basic units of any visual composition which form its structure and conveys a visual message. Artists and photographers alike make use of these tools. Have a look and see these elements at work in the examples included.
