Lines
Lines also play an important role in composition. This sculpture has some beautiful lines, but they're obscured by the busy background. Let's simplify this picture by moving our camera viewpoint in close to the base of the sculpture.
Now we can look up and see the lines against a clear blue sky. The picture on the right is much more dynamic because of the strong diagonal lines.
Imagine this view without the diagonal rays of sunlight and you'll probably agree: diagonal lines are dynamic!
You can use diagonals as leading lines to provide a way into the picture. It's a simple and easy path for the eye to follow to the main subject.
You can also use repetitive lines to draw viewers' attention to your center of interest.
One of the most common and graceful lines used in composition is called the S curve.
Here's another S curve that forms a diagonal leading line. This picture is also improved with a well-placed center of interest, and the result is a photograph that's easy to look at.
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