All kinds of lines impact the composition of images. One of the most dynamic options is the classic and graceful S-Curve.
Article rating: 8.41
The use of lines in a composition has always been important in determining the success of an image. Proving their importance, many classifications of lines have been established in the art world with each type having unique qualities and strategic uses. Vertical lines imply strength, dominance and stature. Images of tall buildings, cityscapes, and full length portraits are a few examples. Horizontal lines imply rest, leisure, and sleep. When a person lays down to take a nap, it’s done in a horizontal position. Diagonal lines imply movement and speed. When diagonal lines are presented in a picture, the action seems to whiz through from one corner of the photo to the other. Receding lines lead the viewer to the point where the lines converge or leave the composition. Converging railroad tracks is the quintessential example.
It’s up to the photographer to create what’s known as “eye flow” in a photo. Eye flow is the path the viewer’s eyes take as he or she enters the image, studies it, and exits at the point where the lines end. The lines should be kept simple and clean to prevent chaos and confusion in the composition. The longer the photographer can keep the viewer studying the image, chances are, the photographer’s use of lines in the arrangement of elements was handled well. Just using lines in a picture isn’t enough. Along with them, don’t forget about the rule of thirds, balance, shape and texture.
A favorite line I like to include in my photographs is the S curve. It’s a graceful and gentle line that leads the viewer through the image in a peaceful and quiet way. Meandering country roads, rivers, streams, foot trails through a forest, and the back alleyways of old European towns are classic examples. The natural flow of the line as it ambles its way through the image brings the viewer on a soft journey through the picture. It’s very natural for the viewer to follow the line as it wanders along the composition. With this in mind, the entry and exit point of the S curve is very important. Having it end where an important element resides is good as the viewer follows the curving line to a specific focal point.
The S curve and the use of perspective can be used in conjunction to create a very dynamic image. As the line continues throughout the photo, have it recede into the distance so it has a natural exit point. This can be accomplished by positioning yourself at an angle somewhere along the curve where this can occur. Another way to accomplish this is through the strategic use of a wide angle lens. By getting down low at the point where you want the curve to begin, the foreground will be larger and quickly recede into the distance. The obvious entry point will be the dominant foreground and the eye will naturally follow it to its end.
To learn more about this topic, join me on one of my Photographic Nature Tours. Visit www.russburdenphotography.com and click on the NATURE TOURS button for more information. Also, pick up a copy of my new book, Amphoto’s Complete Book of Photography. You can purchase a signed copy directly from me or visit your local book store or Amazon. Contact me at rburden@ecentral.com to order your signed copy.
Mr. Burden is great at both presenting and explaining his techniques.
Very helpful. Thank you
Posted by: Barry Edel May 27, 2007 @ 9:44 AM EST
love your S curve on that sad dune.
Posted by: kombizz Jun 8, 2007 @ 1:7 AM EST
this aticle helped me emensly with my high scool photo class, thanks the info/pics are great
Posted by: nick Oct 10, 2007 @ 4:5 PM EST
The pics are great, yeah, but I don't really get why someone needs to stare at a picture for a long time. If someone likes the pic, whether or not it has some really long track to draw them through, they'll keep looking at it. We shouldn't force people to look at something they don't like, just 'cause they feel they need to finish the 'course'.
