Understanding basic principles of composition is essential to improving your photography skills. The basic principles of landscape composition are those things that influence the way in which the components are used. Ground form, structures and plants all need to be organized into a pleasing composition of spaces to satisfy the effect desired by the photographer.

COMPOSITION
Always have a focal point (a centre of interest) in the photograph that the eye is drawn to. The other things in the photo should complement that central focus (e.g. a large tree surrounded by less awesome vegetation, a grand building surrounded by a garden; or by less dominating architecture). The elements that go to make up the picture should not detract from each other. Consider the picture as a whole.

Rule of Thirds

The rule of thirds can be a useful procedure. It is applied as follows:

• Imagine the viewfinder divides the picture into 3 equal sections horizontally and 3 sections vertically. There would be 2 vertical lines and 2 horizontal lines, intersecting each other at 4 points.
• Locate the centre of interest sighting it over one of these 4 intersections. Supporting elements should be arranged at other points.
• Give due consideration to the power of colour. Red objects for instance, draw attention more than dull colours. A red object can appear more prominent and closer than it really is.
• If the horizon is placed low on a photo, it creates a feeling of spaciousness. If high in the frame it creates a more confined feeling.

Some of the principles that can be used are discussed below:

Unity:

By grouping, placing or arranging in such a way that several individual components appear to have a sense of oneness, unity is achieved. A desirable appearance needs to be achieved from all points of view. A repetitive pattern can be used to create unity. A lawn or water spreading through a garden can be used to tie other components together creating a sense of unity. Unity can be achieved by using components of similar texture, forming or colour or by enclosing an area as a unit.

Balance:

This refers to equilibrium either symmetrical or asymmetrical. With symmetrical balance there is duplication on either side of an imaginary line of landscape components in terms of line, form or colour. Asymmetrical balance involves dissimilar placement of different objects or masses on either side of the same sort of imaginary line, but in a way that equilibrium exists.

Proportion:

This refers to proper sizing or scaling of components in relation to each other and to the total landscape. Two hundred foot trees are not in proportion if seen in a small courtyard; neither is a bonsai in proportion in the middle of a large expanse of lawn.

Harmony:

This refers to the way different parts of the landscape fit together. Harmony is usually the objective, but not always in all parts of the design. A photo with harmony has a relaxing affect on the person looking at it.

Contrast:

Contrast is in opposition to harmony and should not be overdone. Occasional contrasts to the harmony of a design will create an eye catching feature, adding life and interest to an area that might otherwise be dead. For example, if you were photographing a garden and all of the foliage was a similar texture or colour, by having one plant of a different texture or colour in the middle, a contrast is created which provides a focal point in the garden. Contrast grabs a person's attention, and it is useful in photos which are trying to get the person looking to sit up and notice something (eg. in advertising).

Rhythm:

Rhythm is a conscious repetition of equal or similar components. It is usually created by repetition and transition.

 

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