composition & perspective 109Diagonals
one of the easiest ways to create dynamism in an image is through the
use of diagonal lines. these can be achieved either by tilting the camera or
through the pose. here, Johan’s leaning pose divides the picture into bright
and shadowed areas. note that his eyes are looking toward the light source.Framing
placing your model within a frame makes her a stronger focal point.
the apparently unbalanced framing works here because the model is
perfectly vertical and it emphasizes her strength. the lightest part of her
body, beneath her arm, is the exact middle point of the image.
Empty space
Don’t be afraid to leave empty
space in an image—it can be a
powerful compositional tool when
used to create an atmosphere or
a story. A small figure in an empty
space can be used to suggest
loneliness or to emphasize how
small the human figure is in
comparison to its surroundings.
Converging lines
the converging lines of the window frame and bars are repeated and
extended in the model’s arm and the direction of her face. A soft, caressing
light falls on her body, while her face is turned more toward the full light.
repeating lines often bring strength to a composition.