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Basics on Getting Better Composition for Your Images


Often, when we talk about creating better images in photography, the conversation starts with compositional rules such as the rule of thirds, the golden ratio, leading lines, etc. These guidelines serve as a good benchmark for discussion and a way to introduce structure to what might otherwise feel like an abstract concept.

Let’s be honest: how many of us actually remember and consciously apply these rules in the practical world? Often, they are merely tools to make photography classes feel more structured, rather than steps we actively follow subconsciously when taking photographs in the field.

Rather than trying to memorize all the compositional rules and make them work for us in the field, I personally let my subconscious take the front seat in finding balance in our compositions to create enough visual interest. While balance ensures that an image looks harmonious and complete, there is a hidden component called tension behind an image that inspires viewers to stop, explore, and engage with your work. These two elements, seemingly opposing forces, when working together, create a compelling image. In this article, we will analyze these elements in detail and see how they interact to elevate your creations.

What is structural balance?

To fully understand the harmony of opposing forces between balance and tension in creating interesting visuals, we first need to understand what creative balance is. For me personally, creative balance is concerned with the spatial distribution of visual elements within the frame – specifically, the balance between active elements and the empty space between those elements and the frame edge. Uneven distribution between each element and edges will make the audience feel imbalanced as our eyes are often attracted to uneven areas due to asymmetry. Although there is no right or wrong in this matter, the distribution of elements usually depends on what we are trying to emphasize.

For example, a red wall, which is an uneven prominent area in the image, may be desirable to emphasize the spread of the red wall. Having the stairs as a heavy enough counterweight also helps balance the frame. Compositional balance is about the harmonious distribution of visual weight within an image, ensuring that no part of the frame seems disproportionately heavy or out of place. This is fundamental to producing visually pleasing photographs.

That being said, here are some suggestions for how balance can manifest in different forms. For example, symmetry provides peace and order by creating a structured and calming effect by mirroring elements on either side of the frame. Asymmetry, on the other hand, relies on contrasting elements that are visually balanced. It is commonly used to bring a more dynamic and attractive feel to a composition. Then there is radial balance, where elements radiate from a central point, naturally guiding the viewer’s eye around the image.

While balance is important in providing the audience with a sense of completeness, it often lacks the spark needed to capture the audience’s attention. This is where the element of tension comes in, providing energy and breathing life into the frame, elevating an image above the ordinary.

Introduction to Stress: The Hidden Ingredient

Tension is the energy that keeps a balanced image from being stable or predictable. It is the subtle push, contradiction or conflict between elements that arouses curiosity and invites deeper engagement. In my opinion, tension is what stops the viewer in their tracks, and forces them to study the image further.

To better understand stress, we must first understand how it works. In a typical image study, we classify an element that takes up most of the space in the image as background, with the remaining elements considered active. This is where tension comes into play, which is generated by the interaction between the active elements and the background space. This creates contrast of interest between different elements in the frame, encouraging the viewer’s eye to flow between them.

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For tension in an image to have substantial impact, it must be recognizable to some degree. Since tension arises from the relationships between different elements within the frame, the viewer must be able to mentally connect the dots for that relationship to exist. This can only happen when the elements are recognizable and understandable to some extent, allowing the viewer to connect with the image on a deeper level.

Tension can emerge in a variety of ways, each adding its own layer of intrigue. For example, the interplay of light and shadow can create strong contrasts, with bright highlights set against deep shadows to create a sense of drama. This dynamic draws attention to specific areas of the frame while leaving others in mystery.

ywAAAAAAQABAAACAUwAOw==Similarly, unresolved relationships within the composition, such as a lone street lamp pole visible between scaffoldings, can raise questions about the story being told.ywAAAAAAQABAAACAUwAOw== Dynamic lines and angles, such as diagonals and curves, disrupt the stability of horizontal or vertical lines, creating a sense of movement and restlessness that energizes the frame.ywAAAAAAQABAAACAUwAOw== Even spatial imbalance can create tension, as placing a subject in an unconventional location, such as at the edge of the frame, challenges the viewer to question why it is not in a more “comfortable” position. .ywAAAAAAQABAAACAUwAOw==Through these techniques, tension becomes the hidden energy that transforms a photograph from merely balanced to deeply captivating, inviting the viewer to pause and uncover layers of meaning.

interplay of balance and tension

Achieving a compelling composition is literally a balancing act between balance and tension. Too much balance, and your image risks feeling flat or overly safe. Too much stress, and it can become chaotic or uncomfortable. The key is to use tension to create curiosity without losing harmony.

This is why tension matters in every image. Tension is the element that elevates an image from “good” to “unforgettable” with the ability to create visual flow. It engages the audience emotionally, creates questions, and encourages exploration. A composition without tension may be pleasing, but it will not stick in the mind of the audience. Overall, creating a perfectly composed image requires both tension and balance.

So, the next time you create an image, don’t just ask yourself if the frame is balanced. Look deeper: Is there enough tension to make someone stop, look, and wonder?





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