Line
(brought to you by QuickPro Camera Guides)
Lines can be seen in all works of art, but are very powerful elements in photography. Lines in your photography create dynamics and lead viewers into a photo. They are said to “divide, unify, and accent” certain parts of a photo. The three most common lines used in photography are horizontal, vertical, and diagonal. These lines can be translated into leading lines, another important element of your photographs.
Horizontal lines often denote a sense of rest and peace. Horizons are a prime example of a horizontal line. You can notice that many horizons give a calming and stable feeling, one you can capture in your photos. Generally, you should not place a horizon in the middle of your image. Instead, place them in the upper or lower third of your frame. Not only are horizons a good example of horizontal line in photography, but you can also photograph numerous horizontal lines in one frame. These will create rhythms or patterns.
Vertical lines often give a sense of attitude, strength, power, and growth. Skyscrapers and trees are good subjects to portray vertical lines. Just as with horizontal lines, the rule of thirds is important when photographing vertical lines. Also, try to keep your vertical object in line with the side of your image. Vertical lines repeated in patterns can give a great impact to your photos, especially if they are contrasted with other shapes.
The third most common form of lines in photography is diagonal lines. Diagonal lines give viewers a sense of direction and movement through action. They also enhance a photographs feeling of depth and perspective. Diagonal lines are useful in leading a viewer’s eye to your subject. Be careful not to split your photograph into two with a diagonal line from corner to corner. Intersecting diagonal lines going different ways add the feeling of action to your photo.
And, just as numerous vertical and horizontal lines add patterns to your images, diagonal lines do the same.
Leading lines can create energy and movement in your photographs and can be nearly anything: railroad tracks, a sidewalk, a river, or even a shadow. Leading lines should lead the viewer’s eye to another point in the image.
This image demonstrates the use of leading lines.
The three most common types of lines in photography, horizontal, vertical, and diagonal can all enhance certain elements of your photographs and add different dynamics respectively. Use these lines as leading lines in your photographs to direct the viewer to a point of interest. The horizon line is also commonly used in photography. It is usually placed in the top or bottom third of your photograph. Remember to always keep the horizon line straight.
Assignments
-
Choose one type of line and capture an image that tells a story. For example, if you decide to photograph a vertical line your picture should give the viewer a sense of strength, power, growth, etc.