The foundations of good photographs are largely dependent on the composition. If the composition is not good enough, the photo may look unorganized, unclear and unappealing. But with the technology in digital cameras today, mechanical settings make it easier to take good quality shots. But even with this, there are still a thin line dividing ordinary shots and amazing shots and that is composition. This is why it is significant that one understands the important aspects in digital photography. All the important aspects may not always go together at once, but a good combination may result to an amazing shot.
Lighting- Lighting is one of the most important aspects in any form of photography. It is a significant element which you can play with to create different effects. With light, you can put more emphasis on your main subject while eliminating the unnecessary parts or illuminating the secondary parts. Light is also major in creating the mood in photos. Light also brings about forms, textures, and depth. It helps define the subject so it becomes clearer.
Pattern- Pattern in photography is almost repetitive details that result to uniformity in its configuration. The motive why this is an important aspect in digital photography is that the uniformity brings about rhythm and order which is easy and appealing to the eyes. Repeating patterns can either be comprised of the same color palettes, lines, shapes, and the likes. The rhythm in patterns creates balance which is essential in photography. Usually, pattern is used as a supporting element to the main subject. It is often used to compliment the subject, creating a better composition.
Shape- Combinations of different shapes in the same or different sizes make-up an appealing photograph. They come about as a result of the combinations of forms, lines, or curves of a certain subject. Shapes that are patterned also create an interesting main or secondary subject. Shape is one of the most basic elements of design which is necessary in photography.
Volume- Volume or depth is also an important aspect as it gives dimensional effects to photos. Photos are flat but when there is volume or depth, it appears as if it has other dimensions. Shadows, colors, textures and angles are the most important elements that create volume. A simple composition with depth effects can make the subject more interesting.
Texture- Texture is the element that gives dimension and life to still photos. It makes photos look more realistic by creating illusions of softness or roughness. Texture is also used as a subordinate element to create stronger compositions, supporting the main subject. It helps define the subject more so that the meaning becomes more powerful.
All the important aspects mentioned above are inter-related. It may seem confusing as all these aspects are hard to define because each can be associated with the other. They key to a successful digital photography is understand the importance of each and how to put emphasis in one while making the others as subordinate elements. It's how you play with this element that makes-up a good composition in digital photography.