One thing that sounds banal, but really helps to draw the eye into a photograph, is trying to include prominent lines, be they horizontal, vertical, diagonal, or curved.
Generally, the most effective lines are those that “lead the viewer into the scene”. This, of course, sounds like the most pompous art-talk if you aren’t familiar with how effective the technique is. The most obvious “leading in” picture I have taken to date is probably this one:
That picture also demonstrates my (and the eye’s!) very favourite type of curve - the S-bend. There is something wonderfully relaxing and intriguing about them for us - something subconscious that makes them a treat for the senses. If you see one, reach for the camera - there’s a good chance it will make a great photo.
The following image, whilst it has problems (an indistinct sky chief amongst them), also makes use of the S-bend:
Diagonal lines also have a great dynamism about them which makes a picture more interesting. Perspective, of course, is your friend here - train tracks, straight roads, corridors - all will serve to lead the viewer’s eye into a scene - like this church interior shot:
Sometimes the line isn’t immediately obvious - this photo, for instance, relies heavily on the diagonal line created by the decrease in size of the tress from right to left - and also on the “wedge” shape that creates. Triangles are particularly effective shapes for photographs - the viewer may not consciously recognise them, but they add a structure to the image which pleases the brain.
In short, always have an eye open for:
- Curves - especially S-bends
- Horizontal/vertical lines
- Diagonal lines
- Simple, bold geometric shapes
Each will give your photographs some much needed structure.
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