What is Composition?

• Composition: Arrangement of elements in an image, defining the relationship between them to convey meaning.
• Historical roots in storytelling through single-frame images.
• Depends on aspect ratio, influencing composition similarly in both art and film.

Key Elements of Composition

1. Points

• Direct the viewer’s eye using focal points.
• Techniques: Rule of thirds, Golden triangle.
• Used effectively in wide shots and other contexts.

2. Lines

• Foundation of composition, suggesting certain emotions or directions:
  • Vertical: Height, strength.
  • Horizontal: Distance, calmness.
  • Diagonal: Energy.
  • Curved: Grace.
• Leading lines guide the viewer’s eye towards the subject.

3. Shapes

• Shapes create visual unity or chaos (triangles, circles, squares).
• Can frame subjects, creating focus or emotional states.

4. Texture and Patterns

• Add depth to an image, working with cinematographers and production designers.
• Patterns can suggest control or chaos, breaking them is impactful.

5. Space

• Positive vs. negative space enhances mood and importance.
• Techniques include headroom, lead room, and filling the frame.

6. Depth

• Creates a three-dimensional illusion in a two-dimensional medium.
• Divides space into foreground, middle ground, and background to create layers.
• Techniques: Shallow focus, deep focus.

7. Balance

• Ensures visual stability of a frame.
• Techniques: Rule of odds, Golden ratio, symmetry.
• Unbalanced frames can convey unease.

8. Angle

• Perspective is key; alters how subjects are perceived (high, low, overhead, Dutch).
• Makes composition dynamic and enhances story.

9. Color and Tone

• Influences viewer focus and emotion through schemes:
  • Monochromatic, analogous, complementary, triadic.
• Tone refers to brightness/contrast, affecting mood and emphasis.