Principles of Design Through Photography

Contents: Preface. 1. Introduction. 2. Principles of design. 3. Rhythm. 4. Harmony. 5. Contrast. 6. Balance. 7. Symmetry. Index. Bibliography.

Principles of Design Through Photography is an investigation of how a particular principle of design is used in a composition, and how that composition will, in turn, help the photographer convey an effective message to the viewer. Viewers have become so accustomed to looking at what a photograph depicts that they often neglect its composition and aesthetic value in favour of its informative value.

Each composition aims to give a visual experience of the principle of design-rhythm, harmony, contrast, balance and symmetry-that helps to better perceive a photograph. Each principle of design has been isolated as much as possible so that it can be understood and used in combination with other design elements. This book is an introduction to the way in which photographs can be read and appreciated, and will delight students of photography, aesthetes and those who are curious about both design and photography.