Using Line in Photography

Composition The placement of elements and principals within the frame of a photograph Two parts: The subject or point of interest The treatment of the subject Important Elements of Composition in Photography Line Light Texture Motion Shape Perspective We will be starting our compositional investigation with LINE

Line Definition: is a visual force that pulls the viewers eye around a picture, helps focus attention on key points of the composition Understanding line of one of the primary elements of photography Line(s) can… Be an edge or border Show the connection between two or more things Suggests moods Create rhythm Create pattern Create structure The subject itself or it can support the subject Actual or implied

Leading Lines

Main types of Line in Photography Horizontal Vertical Diagonal Curved Zigzag

Horizontal Lines Portray calmness, stability Most commonly found as “horizon lines” Typically framed in a horizontal (landscape) manner Always square your horizontal lines with the frame of the picture Visual Examples: Fallen trees Sleeping person Landscapes (ocean scenes)

Vertical Lines Portray stature, strength, or growth Typically framed vertically (portrait style) which lengthens the subject Always square your horizontal lines with the frame of the picture Visual Examples: Person standing Fence posts Tall buildings

Diagonal Lines Portray a sense of action or motion Tend to lead the viewers eye through the photograph To or away from the main subject or point of interest A natural direction for Western people is having a line go front left to right

Other Lines Curved Lines: portray grace or slowness Zig Zag Lines: portray rapid motion

Project #4: Lines Using the 5 different types of line that we learned about… Shoot whole roll of film focusing on line In or out of school Requirements: 1 Contact Sheet 2 Prints that demonstrate an effective use of Line