Photography

Rule of Thirds

A general rule of composition where a photograph is evenly divided into thirds both horizontally and vertically. Focal points are often intentionally positioned to line up along the frame and/or intersecting lines.

Framing

Refers to the shot “size” and the deliberate choice to include and exclude elements within the photograph to frame an object.

Lighting

Refers to how the lens lets in an amount of light to create different exposures or the source of light in the “world” that the photograph is being taken.

Perspective

Relates to the depth and space between subjects and objects in a photograph and how we as viewers interpret this.

Line

Intentionally used (formed by shapes, objects and subjects) to draw the viewer’s eye to a certain section of an image.

Shape

The use of visual elements to create a sense of shape without depth. The way in which depth is not evident creates a 2D like image.

Form

The way in which shadows and highlights create a sense of depth to make a subject or object look 3D. Often created using either natural or unnatural light to create shadows.

Texture

The visual quality of a surface or object through tone, colour, depth and shape.

Colour

The use of colour to express meaning to the viewer. Used to represent a range of things such as emotion or themes. It can express a certain meaning/message or simply for aesthetic purposes.

Space

Adding visual space around the subject of a photograph to have a certain effect. Includes making your subject look isolated or to imply direction or movement.

Movement

Representing movement within a still image through a variety of ways, using photographic techniques such as line and texture.

Pattern

The technique of using a mixture of line, texture and other elements to create a sense of repetition.

Depth of Field

The zone of acceptable sharpness within a photo, stretching in front of and behind your main subject. Thin focus has the subject sharp while the background is blurry. Wide focus is the entire scene looking sharp.

Shutter Speed

Relates to how long a camera’s shutter is open for. Fast shutter speed will capture objects in motion clearly. Low shutter speed will blur objects in motion.

Aperture

Relates to how much light is let in when taking a photograph. It can affect how bright a photo is and how much a subject is in focus.