Balance is one of the most important principles of composition in photography. It refers to the arrangement and visual weight distribution of elements within the image frame. A photograph with good balance looks harmonized, stable, and aesthetically pleasing. Poor balance can make an image feel uncomfortable or disjointed for the viewer.
What is balance in photography?
In photography, balance is achieved when there is an even distribution of visual elements across the image frame. This creates a sense of equilibrium for the viewer’s eye to move throughout the scene. The purpose of balance is to create stability and structure within the composition.
There are two main types of balance in photography:
- Symmetrical balance – The elements are mirrored evenly across an axis in the center of the frame. This creates a formal and orderly look.
- Asymmetrical balance – The visual weight is distributed unevenly but still feels balanced. This creates a more informal and dynamic look.
Photographers strive for balance by carefully arranging subjects, shapes, colors, and other elements within the frame. Placement, scale, visual weight, and empty space all affect how balanced a photograph feels.
How is balance achieved in photography?
There are several techniques photographers use to achieve balance in their images:
- Rule of Thirds – Placing key elements along the grid lines or at their intersections creates asymmetrical balance.
- Leading Lines – Lines such as fences, roads, or shorelines guide the viewer’s eye through the image in a balanced way.
- Framing – Elements like arches, windows, or overhanging branches create a balanced frame around the main subject.
- Repetition – Repeating patterns, shapes, or colors create visual harmony and balance.
- Scale and Proportion – Elements are sized appropriately relative to each other to create balance.
In addition to composition techniques, photographers also use post-processing to adjust brightness, contrast, color saturation, cropping, and more to improve balance. Subtle tweaks can make a big difference.
Symmetrical vs asymmetrical balance
Symmetrical and asymmetrical balance each create distinct looks and feels in photography:
Symmetrical balance
- Elements mirror each other across a central vertical or horizontal axis.
- Creates a sense of formality, order, and visual harmony.
- Works well for architectural, minimalist, or abstract photography.
- Can feel static or predictable unless broken up by other elements.
Asymmetrical balance
- Elements are arranged unevenly in a way that still feels stable.
- Creates a more casual, energetic, and natural look.
- Works well for portraits, candid shots, nature scenes.
- Harder to achieve than symmetrical balance.
Examples of balance in photography
Here are some examples of balanced compositions in different photograph genres:
Landscape photography
The mountain peaks and lake form an asymmetrical balance in this landscape shot. The elements are arranged in a harmonious way across the frame.
Portrait photography
This portrait has symmetrical balance with the subject’s face neatly centered. The hands frame the face and create balance on both sides.
Architectural photography
The symmetrical pillars and centralized building create a formal balanced look in this architectural shot. The reflection enhances the symmetry.
Food photography
While not perfectly symmetrical, the arrangement of food on this plate creates a pleasing asymmetrical balance with colors and shapes evenly distributed.
Minimalist photography
In this minimalist shot, the centered chair aligned with the ceiling panels creates strong symmetrical balance and harmony.
How to improve balance
Here are some tips for improving balance in your photography:
- Use the Rule of Thirds and position elements strategically within the grid.
- Frame the subject intentionally and avoid centering it.
- Include leading lines to direct the viewer’s eye through the image.
- Repeat colors, shapes, textures to create visual harmony.
- Pay attention to visual weight and scale.
- Use empty space intentionally to balance busy areas.
- Try different vantage points and perspectives.
- Crop images to improve balance and composition.
Conclusion
Balance is key to making photographs aesthetically pleasing and comfortable to view. Photographers use various techniques to distribute the visual weight evenly within the frame. Both symmetrical and asymmetrical balance have their uses depending on the desired look and feel. Keep the principles of balance in mind as you compose your shots. With practice, you can train your eye to instantly recognize balanced and imbalanced scenes.
