Balance is one of the most important principles of visual composition in art and photography. It refers to the distribution of visual elements in a way that looks harmonized and pleasing to the eye. A balanced composition feels stable and visually engaging. Showing balance in a picture requires careful consideration of the placement, size, color, and visual weight of subjects and elements within the frame. There are a few key techniques photographers use to create a sense of balance.
Symmetrical Balance
The most straightforward way to show balance is through symmetry. Symmetrical balance is achieved when the visual elements on both sides of the center axis mirror each other. This creates a feeling of equality in weight and visual interest on both sides. Some examples of symmetrical balance include:
| – A portrait with the subject’s face precisely centered |
| – A landscape image that is mirrored on the left and right side |
| – An overhead shot that is symmetrical along a vertical axis |
Symmetrical balance comes naturally to our eyes. When the composition is evenly split, it creates a pleasing balance. However, too much symmetry can also look stagnant or uninteresting. Breaking some symmetry adds life and a subtle sense of movement or direction to the image.
Asymmetrical Balance
Asymmetrical or informal balance relies on using visual elements of differing sizes and weights to create balance. Unlike symmetrical balance, the two sides do not mirror each other. Balance is achieved through careful placement of heavier visual elements against lighter ones. Some examples of asymmetrical balance include:
| – A large subject on one side balanced by a cluster of smaller subjects on the other side |
| – A bright subject balanced by multiple dull toned subjects on the opposite side |
| – A vertical subject on one side balanced by strong horizontals on the other side |
Asymmetrical balance allows for more dynamic and engaging compositions. The interplay between the different visual forces on each side keeps the viewer’s eye moving throughout the image. Photographers need to use their intuition when arranging elements asymmetrically. Changing the size, tone, color, shape, or placement will shift the visual weight and balance
Radial Balance
Radial balance focuses on balance from a center point. Visual elements radiate outward from a central focal point in a circular fashion. Examples include:
| – A flower arranged centrally with petals radiating out |
| – Rippling water or reflections that move out from near the middle of the frame |
| – Subjects grouped evenly around a central, dominant element |
Radial balance naturally draws the eye inward toward the center. It creates a strong focal point and is especially useful for abstract compositions. However, having too many competing elements radiating outward can make an image feel busy or chaotic. Leaving some negative space around the central elements helps keep the look balanced.
Color Balance
Color profoundly impacts visual weight and balance. Bright, saturated colors tend to dominate, while muted and dull tones recede. Using color theory principles helps photographers intentionally manipulate color for balanced compositions. Some examples include:
| – Balancing powerful warm tones like red with tranquil cool tones like blue |
| – Balancing pure primary tones with duller secondary or tertiary colors |
| – Balancing desaturated monochrome elements against vivid color |
Complementary colors naturally create balance since they sit on opposite sides of the color wheel. Analagous harmonious colors also balance each other when used carefully. Using color intentionally in this way adds symbolic meaning and visual harmony.
Tonal Balance
Along with color, the lightness or darkness of tones impacts visual weight. High key images with mostly light tones will pull the eye toward any small dark accents. Low key scenes feel anchored by the dominant shadows. Balancing extreme lights against darks creates striking contrast. Examples include:
| – Black silhouetted subjects against a bright sky or background |
| – A pool of light illuminating a subject amidst shadowy darkness |
| – Highlights balanced against middle grays and blacks |
Areas of high contrast naturally draw the eye first. Photographers use this to intentionally guide the viewer and achieve balance between tones. Bright highlights only feel bright when balanced by dark tones, and vice versa.
Rule of Thirds
While not inherently about balance, the rule of thirds facilitates balanced compositions. This popular photographic guideline divides the frame into thirds horizontally and vertically. Placing important subjects near the intersection points where these lines meet tends to create balanced interest within the frame. It avoids awkward mergers at the dead center and edges.
Other compositional techniques like leading lines, framing, and use of negative space integrate naturally with the rule of thirds. Composing according to the rule of thirds isn???t mandatory. But it???s worth keeping in mind as an underlying framework for balanced image making.
Balancing Empty and Full Space
Equally considering both filled and empty areas brings an image into balance. For example:
| – An expanse of water balanced by a small boat in the distance |
| – A little house nestled amidst rolling hills |
| – Just a few flowers arranged in a simple vase |
Negative space balances busy compositions by giving the eye a place to rest. But too much can make an image feel vacant and dull. Photographers thoughtfully use empty space to counterbalance their central subjects and show balance.
Balancing Different Visual Elements
Composing a photograph isn???t just about where subjects are placed. It???s also about balancing the different visual forces of line, shape, form, texture and color. Consider balancing:
| – Straight lines and hard edges against soft, organic curves and diffused areas |
| – Geometric shapes against irregular abstract forms |
| – Smooth, sharp focus against rough, blurred textures |
| – Flat, 2D shapes placed against 3D volumetric forms |
Blending and counterbalancing these different visual forces creates interest and natural harmony. Our eyes appreciate the interplay between contrasting elements.
Balance Text or Graphics With Visuals
When using text or graphics in an image, balance its visual weight carefully against other elements. Small, clean typography integrates easily. Large, bold text can easily overwhelm. Strategies include:
| – Use minimal text just as a delicate accent against strong visuals |
| – Increase empty space around bold typography to balance it |
| – Use simple complimentary colors between type and background |
The goal is for neither the text nor image to dominate. If you squint and the text disappears, it is likely balanced well. The principles of scale, space, color and contrast integrate text naturally into balanced compositions.
Conclusion
Achieving visual balance in photography takes practice and a thoughtful eye. Balanced compositions look resolved and complete. The principles of symmetry, asymmetrical weight, radial focus, color theory, contrast, use of space and the rule of thirds all help photographers thoughtfully arrange the elements in their images. With some experimentation, an intuitive sense of balance will emerge. A balanced image sets up visual flow and harmony. It draws the viewer in without distraction, letting the photographer share their perspective compellingly.
