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USING LINES AND SHAPES TO CREATE INTERESTING PHOTOS

Photos are about what each individual prefers, but there are a handful of rules of photo composition that can help build the basis of an interesting photo that you can turn into a canvas photo print. One of the key elements to look for when creating a photo is  ‘lines and different shapes’. It is helpful to train yourself to look for lines and shapes. They can be a powerful element that can have a significant impact on your photo. Lines and shapes are useful in adding mood and atmosphere to your finished product or creating a desired effect. They can be useful in either leading the eye’s to a part of your image, or leading the eyes from one part to another.

Using lines and shapes takes a little practice and it is often beneficial to go back through previous images you have taken to see what has worked and what hasn’t worked. Have a look at all of the different lines and shapes that you can use. Using these tips will add to your finished print.

Horizontal Lines

Horizontal lines can be useful in creating photos that are tranquil. They can have the ability to convey stability and restfulness. An example of this would be a foal sleeping in flowers. The most common horizontal lines to be found in photographs are generally horizons,  but be careful not to run the horizon directly through the centre of the photograph dividing the equal amounts of the sky and landscapes. This may often have a negative effect and could create a dull image. Although this is not always considered the rule. A great practice to pick out the more impressive part of your scene, for example sunsets with dramatic clouds. It is worth noting that broken horizons may lead to a dull feeling photograph.

Look for layers of horizontal lines to add rhythm to your photo, for example layers of breaking surf. The rhythm can than become the focus or subject of the picture itself.

Another good trick when using horizontal lines is to try it to try to keep the lines square with the edges of you frame and to also shoot your image in a horizontal format. Adding horizontal lines into your image can really make a difference to how your photo print to canvas will enhance the mood .

Using Vertical Lines

Vertical lines can convey various different moods from grandeur and dignity to growth. Objects such as trees and buildings represent horizontal lines. Combined with horizontal lines they can create a strong and dynamic picture. . If you really want to emphasize the power of the vertical line, try switching your camera to the vertical plane. Although, with photography this is not always the rule. If you want the lines to appear as if they are bursting out of the top of the image, it then becomes useful to leave your camera in a horizontal format. Take your picture so that the lines move from the bottom to the top of your picture.

Diagonal Lines

Diagonal lines that are used in your photo are often considered the most interesting. They are representative of movement and speed. They can lead you into the frame of the photo and to the point of interest. A good trick is to avoid splitting the frame of your image in two by running diagonal lines from one corner of the picture to the other. This may cause the image to lose it’s drive. To achieve a more balanced image within the confines of your frame try to create a diagonal that starts just to one side of the corner and moves to the one side of the opposite corner. Using curved lines within your frame can also be representative of moods such as grace and dignity.

If you really want to add an interest to your finished photo print to canvas look for different ways to incorporate interesting diagonal lines into your image. Keep in mind when you are taking photos that it is worth remembering the different moods and feelings that they can convey.

Shapes

Shapes are basic two dimensional elements in the composition of your photos. You can use different shapes to achieve different moods within your image. Shapes can include anything from odd numbers to triangles to create interesting photographic geometry. A shape such as a square or rectangle that mirrors the basic frame of the picture doesn’t have much interesting conflict, so can create a less interesting picture. Make them more creative and use them with diagonals and triangles to create a more dynamic photo. Placing a shape against a contrasting background and make them more interesting for example a white yacht sail against a blue ocean. A ideal use of shapes are also silhouettes. The use of curved lines or circles and straight lines has a great ability to create tension in your image.

Conclusion 

Shapes and lines can add a very dynamic and interesting element to you photo composition, so next time you have your camera out keep in mind these basic rules. To find out about printing your photo to canvas visit Canvas Prints Online.