Visual Techniques - English

Framing

How an image is cropped or bordered to focus attention

Salience

The element that stands out most in an image

Gaze

Direction of characters' eyes, either demanding or offering gaze

Vectors

Lines or shapes that direct the viewer's eye through the image

Composition

Arrangement of visual elements within the frame

Colour

Use of colors to convey mood, symbolism, or emphasis

Lighting and Shadow

Use of light and dark to create mood or highlight areas

Body Language

Physical posture or gestures to express emotion or intent

Facial Expressions

Expressions that communicate feelings or reactions

Symbolism

Use of symbols to represent ideas or concepts

Typography

Style and appearance of text in an image or design

Contrast

Differences in color, tone, or size to highlight elements

Juxtaposition

Placing contrasting images or ideas close together

Angle

The viewpoint or perspective from which an image is taken

Shot Size

Distance of the camera from the subject (e.g., close-up, long)

Layout

Overall arrangement of images, text, and space

Spacing

Placement of elements close together or apart

Costumes + Props

Objects and clothing used to convey character or setting

Setting + Background

Environment that provides context for the subject

Balance + Symmetry

Visual harmony created by evenly distributed elements

Depth + Perspective

Techniques to show distance and three-dimensionality

Texture

Visual or implied surface quality that adds tactile interest

Repetition

Repeating shapes, colors, or elements to create rhythm or emphasis

Proximity

Relates to posture, how people align their bodies with each other in terms of distance. Feet alignment reveals engagement.

Gestures and body language

Movements of hands, arms or body. Give messages, reveal emotion or show intimacy.

Line

Connects two points. Thin represents fragility, thick is strong and makes a statement.

Rule of Thirds

Dividing an image into thirds to create balanced composition