Design Principles For Photography

[Ruchika_2011]

As far as composition rules are concerned everyone of us is well versed with the rule of thirds and golden ratio. But recently I came across some design principles which prove to be helpful in taking great shots. But it seems that following the design principles actually requires you to have an artistic look. You have to judge the scene on the basis of unity, harmony, rhythm and so on. Rather than simplifying photography, it seems to be complicating to me. What do you think? How do design principles contribute to your photographing skills?

[Krusty79]

I think that over time, we subconsciously start to incorporate those elements into our compositions without consciously deciding how Balance or Rhythm applies to our shots.

[shruggy63]

I've read things on composition that were much longer & more detailed! But I think they're worth the effort ultimately because, even if you only retain 10% of it, it'll improve your understanding. Sometimes I think tips like those can help you see a picture that you might miss otherwise, does that make sense?

[sk66]

IMO it' the ability to go beyond the mechanics/rules of thumb that makes one a "creative/artistic" photographer.