PRINCIPLES OF COMPOSITION

The principles of composition are the way that the elements of composition are used to achieve a particular purpose. Some of the main principles of composition are explained below Whilst each of these principles are explained individually, they should be considered as being integral parts of a whole. Each one affects and interacts with each of the other and does not exist in isolation.

Scale

The actual size of an image can have a large affect on how that piece is perceived. A small image, for example a photograph in an album, will feel intimate and personal, whereas a large piece of art such as the roof of the Sistine chapel will feel impressive and awe inspiring.

Proportion

Proportion is the relative size of elements within a piece of art. The size of an element in relation to other elements within the same piece can have a huge effect on how that element is perceived in the piece.