Visual Conventions

English

Rule of Thirds

Dividing an image into thirds to position subjects for balance

Framing

How elements are positioned within a “frame” to direct attention

Focus

Depth of field (eg, blurred background vs. sharp foreground)

Colour symbolism

Difference colours evoke emotions or ideas (eg red for passion, blue for calm)

Contrast

Light and dark areas create emphasis

Mood Lighting

Bright, soft, or harsh light to set a tone

Body Language

Facial expression, gestures, or posture to reveal emotions or relationships

Clothing and Props

Costumes or objects that convey personality, era, or symbolism

Gaze

The direction and intensity of a person's gaze, which can indicate interest, attention, or emotional state.

Symbolic Settings

Locations that represent ideas or themes (eg, a stormy sea for chaos)

Negative Space

Empty areas that draw attention to the subject

Salience

The prominence or significance of certain elements in a composition that attract the viewer's attention.

Leading Lines

Visual pathways that guide the viewer's eye through a composition, often creating depth and perspective.

Lines

Horizontal for calmness, vertical for strength, diagonal for tension.

Shapes

Circles for unity, triangles for conflict, squares for stability

High angle

Makes the subject appear small or vulnerable

Low Angle

Makes the subject appear larger and more powerful, intimidating

Close-up

Shows detail or emotion

Long (wide) shot

Provides context or setting

Font Style

Serif for tradition, sans-serif for modernity.