Photographers have a keen eye for detail. And while some are gifted with this talent, others make an effort to learn this skill. Regardless of whether you are born with the gift of being able to capture amazing stills, or you are continually learning to be able to improve your craft, there are several things that you need to consider.
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For one, you need to know the elements that affect your images. It is best to get some inspiration from several prints and pictures that you may be able to find online. It’s also not a bad idea to purchase some from other artists or vendors which photos that took your full attention. Besides supporting other photographers, you get to keep a piece that inspires you and will be at your arms reach every time you need to inspire yourself once more.
Now, let’s have a look at some key elements you can exploit in your photos.
Line
The lines in your images can either be vertical, horizontal, curved or jagged, such as roads, sunsets, or even bridges. This is the strongest and most important element in photography because without it, there will be no shapes in the photos, and without shapes, there will be no form, texture, or pattern. In parallel to this, lines are very effective in leading the eyes of your audience towards the subject of your photograph.
Shape
The shape is a two-dimensional representation of the objects in your images, such as what you see in silhouettes, which are considered as the purest and strongest of all shapes. Shapes are also fundamental because this is the principal element of identification, especially with a strong contrast between the subject and its surroundings.
Form
Form is the three-dimensional representation of objects that is achieved through the use of lighting and shadows. The difference between the light and shadows provides an illustration of the depth of an object, which amplifies the meaning that the image is trying to portray. Shape and form usually go hand in hand in giving life to your captured shots.
Texture
Texture is the use of proper lighting to bring out the details of an object in a photograph. This makes it easy for the viewers to identify a smooth and rough surface. Texture is the design element that moves the viewers of a photograph. Texture can best be accentuated by the side light brought about by early sunny mornings or early evenings, or even by overhead light during noon when the sun is vertically high in the sky.
Pattern
The pattern is the use of repetition to create an interesting photograph, such as when flowers in a garden are captured. Pattern details are all around and it can be emphasised through a contrast of size and expansion. For instance, you can zoom in to a specific pattern and fill your frame with it, such as zooming in on a face in a crowd or a line of homogenous plants or bricks on a wall.
Colour
Warm and cool colours often set the mood of a photo because different colours send out different messages to their viewers. Colour is often characterised by attributes such as value, hue, and saturation.
These elements of photography greatly affect your photos, regardless of whether you are a novice or a pro. This is because photography is more than an art, it also entails the right skills, which can be learned. Focus on these elements of photography to ensure that you are able to capture incredible images each time you hit the shutter.
Featured image: Reinhart Julian/Unsplash
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