Theme: Asymmetry
Asymmetry is a form of compositional balance achieved when elements within the frame are not visually equal.
It sounds strange, I know but we are talking about visual weight here, not physical weight. Let me explain...
When arranging elements within a frame, a common approach is to place items equally on both sides or top to bottom. This creates a symmetrical, graphic design that appears very stable and calm.
Now consider the opposite, what happens when you place elements unequally within your composition? Well, if you try it willy-nilly, it might look a bit weird, so let's take a look at how to create beautiful asymmetrical compositions.
'Kapow' © Naida Ginnane 2018, Nikon D800, 1/125, f/3.5, ISO 125. The elements in this frame are not placed symmetrically, yet still achieve a balanced composition.
Firstly the concept of 'Visual Weight' needs to be considered. This refers to the amount of visual attention an element in the frame receives. It is usually achieved by variations in the element's size, or colour, texture, shape and so on.
For example, the shadow in the image below attracts the eye because it is bigger and contrasting to other elements in the frame.
'Beach Triangle’ © Naida Ginnane 2004 Nikon E5700, 1/430, f/6.3, ISO 100. The large shadow triangle shape draws the eye towards the boy as it points to him, then our eye travels up the shoreline to the boat and back again, creating a circular, asymmetrical composition.
'Window' © Naida Ginnane 2018, Nikon D800 1/60, f/3.5, ISO 400 -67. I intentionally placed the window to the left of frame to reveal something about the interior and exterior at the same time.
'Bridge' © Naida Ginnane 2014 Nikon D800 24-70mm lens, 1/250, f/13, ISO 100. Two buildings that contrast in colour and shape. The dark one on the right commands more attention so I included less of it and more of the other building for balance.
It is important to remember that asymmetry is a form of composition that still must remain balanced. We achieve balance by judging the visual weight of elements and matching their visual interest with each other.
'Lacey Tree' © Naida Ginnane 2015 Nikon D800 24-70mm lens, 1/60, f/9.0, ISO 100. The visual weight of the tree branches is quite small however, it is balanced by the intricate detail and very large shape of the leaf canopy.
“...Asymmetry is compositional balance achieved by considering the visual weight of elements...”
'Island' © Naida Ginnane 2011 Nikon, 1/200, f/10.0, ISO 200. Dark tones of the foreground island command immediate visual attention, balanced by the lighter coloured water and mountain range in the background.
Top Tips:
Asymmetrical compositions are challenging to create but very rewarding in the interest they can create. To help you on your way, remember to;
- Weight is achieved by the amount of contrast in shape, colour or texture, size etc between elements in your frame.
- Practice looking at elements and judging their 'visual weight'.
- Find balance by matching large with small or lesser visual weight.