Balance is a key compositional technique in photography that involves arranging the visual elements in your image to create a sense of equilibrium and stability. Proper balance contributes to a pleasing and harmonious composition that draws viewers in and holds their interest. There are several different types of balance that photographers can utilize to great effect.
What is balance in photography?
Balance refers to the visual weight distribution in a photograph. The human eye naturally seeks balance and symmetry. An imbalanced composition can feel uncomfortable or disjointed to view. A balanced photo, on the other hand, conveys harmony and stability. When the visual weight on different areas of the frame is evenly distributed, the image appears more orderly and composed.
There are two main types of balance in photography:
- Symmetrical balance
- Asymmetrical balance
With symmetrical balance, the elements are mirrored on both sides of the image. With asymmetrical balance, the visual weight is distributed unevenly to create interest while still retaining a sense of balance. Both types of balance, if used effectively, can result in compelling, visually balanced compositions. Balance gives a structure to the image that allows the eye to move smoothly around the frame.
How to achieve symmetrical balance
Symmetrical balance is achieved when the visual elements on one side of the photo mirror the elements on the other side. Symmetrical compositions are bold and eye-catching. Examples include:
- A portrait with the subject placed directly in the middle of the frame
- An architectural image of a symmetrical building
- A still life with similarly weighted objects placed on either side
To create symmetrical balance:
- Position the key elements of the photo in the center of the frame
- Ensure both sides of the image mirror each other
- Pay attention to the visual weight, color, and size of objects on both sides
- Use even negative space on both sides
Placing the horizon line or vanishing point in the center of the image also creates symmetry. Symmetrical balance works best with minimal elements and clean backgrounds so the mirroring effect is very apparent.
How to achieve asymmetrical balance
With asymmetrical or informal balance, the visual weight on each side of the image is not identical but adds up to an overall sense of balance. Asymmetrical balance allows for more creativity and variety in composition. Examples include:
- A large subject on one side balanced by smaller elements dispersed on the other side
- A brightly colored subject offset by paler tones in the background
- An image divided diagonally into darker and lighter halves
To create asymmetrical balance:
- Place the main subject off-center
- Balance the subject with secondary elements like lines, shapes, colors, or negative space
- Pay attention to visual weight and find balance through contrasting sizes, tones, colors etc.
- Allow space around compositional elements
Asymmetrical balance provides visual tension and interest. The eye moves dynamically around the composition as it seeks to balance the uneven distribution of elements.
Using leading lines
Lines are a great compositional tool for creating balance in photos. Diagonal, converging and curving lines can link various elements across the image. This connects the visual weight on opposite sides and contributes to a balanced look. Some examples of effective leading lines include:
- A winding country road or fence that runs diagonally into the distance
- S-shaped river curves dividing the frame
- Shorelines, bridges, or beams curving through the scene
- The aisy pattern created by rows of crops in a field
Leading lines draw the eye through the photo in a controlled way. Make sure to avoid tangent lines touching the edges of your frame. Position the start and endpoints of leading lines according to the rule of thirds to maximize balance and dynamism.
Using color and shape
Color, tone and shape are other powerful tools for creating balanced compositions. Areas of light and dark, warm and cool colors, large and small shapes can be arranged asymmetrically to achieve balance. Some examples include:
- A small bright red subject offset by muted blue tones in the background
- A large dark mass balanced by several small white objects or shapes
- A vividly saturated foreground balanced by a soft misty background
- A big round shape contrasted with several tiny angular shapes
Try using the visual weight, color intensity and size differences of shapes to balance your images in an organic way.
Using negative space
Negative or empty space plays an important role in balance. Areas with no subject also carry visual weight. Placing negative space in the opposite side of the frame to your subject helps provide balance. Some examples of using space effectively include:
- A landscape with a mountain on one side balancing the sky or water on the other side
- A portrait positioned close to one edge with empty space on the opposite side
- A macro shot filled with a large flower on one side and plain background on the other
Look for ways to use empty areas around or between your main subjects to complete the composition.
Balancing landscapes
Landscape photos present great opportunities to utilize both types of balance. The classic landscape rule of thirds approach relies on asymmetrical balance. Placing the horizon line or key elements like mountains, trees or buildings at the power points creates balance and interest. Symmetrical landscape compositions work too when done intentionally, with a focal point in the middle such as a striking mountain peak, tree or reflection.
Some tips for balancing landscapes:
- Use diagonal lines like fencing, paths, rivers to create dynamic balance
- Include interesting rocks, trees or other secondary subjects to balance the foreground and background
- Allow space around key elements and avoid cramming the entire scene into the frame
- Use contrasting textures and surfaces like hills, water and sky to balance visual weight
Balancing portraits
There are endless possibilities for balancing portraits and people photos by arranging subjects within the frame. Traditional centered, symmetrical portraits can look rather static. Offsettting the subject and using asymmetrical balance creates more excitement.
Some tips for balancing portraits:
- Position the person to one side of the frame and balance with secondary elements
- Include interesting background elements like architecture or nature to balance the negative space
- Take environmental portraits showing people in their natural environments
- Use leading lines like railings, walls, paths to point to your subject in an asymmetrical way
Keep in mind balancing the tones and colors of clothing with the background too. The possibilities are endless for creatively balancing people in landscapes, urban and studio settings.
Conclusion
Mastering balance in photography takes practice but pays off in more cohesive, engaging images. A balanced frame subconsciously pleases the eye while an imbalanced one can feel disorienting. Symmetrical balance provides bold impact while asymmetrical balance allows for more varied compositions. Use techniques like the rule of thirds, diagonal leading lines, contrasting color and shapes, and negative space to distribute weight for harmony and interest.
With balanced framing, you can create stunning landscape shots, striking portraits and artistic compositions in any genre. Along with other essential techniques like intentional lighting and careful exposure, balancing the elements in your photographs will greatly enhance your images.