BASIC RULES OF COMPOSITION The classic rules of composition can be described as 4 individual principles but therein also lie rules for color as a compositional element. Using contrast, complementary and supplementary colors can all add to the composition.
RULE OF THIRDS This most known compositional rule states that the frame can be divided into 9 equally sized sections. The idea here is to place points of interest in the image in the intersections or along the lines to create a more balanced image or to lead the viewers eyes to certain areas of the image.
GOLDEN TRIANGLE In this rule the frame is divided into triangles with diagonals across the composition. Placing points of interest along the diagonals and in the intersecting lines should create a balanced structure and sense of stability. LEADING LINES You will find leading lines everywhere in nature and modern society. Naturally occurring leading lines could be walkways, roads, rivers, bridges, boardwalks, doorways, buildings, rocks etc. even rays of sunlight. Placing these leading lines in the image and applying one of the methods described above will help the viewer focus on a specific point of interest. This could be a gravel road leading up to a house or a river leading up to a famous landmark building and so on.
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