Have you ever wondered how some photographs create a sense of balance and harmony that instantly captivates the viewer? The secret lies in the art of symmetry. Symmetrical compositions have a magical quality that draws the eye and creates a visual impact.

Whether you’re a beginner learning the basics of composition or an experienced photographer looking to enhance your skills, understanding how to create balanced and harmonious compositions will elevate your photography to new heights. In this tutorial, we will explore the concept of symmetry in photography and provide you with actionable tips on how to incorporate it into your work.

What is Symmetry?

In simple terms, symmetry refers to a balanced arrangement of elements on both sides of an imaginary central axis. It is a fundamental principle of design that can be found in various art forms, including photography, architecture, and visual arts.

Symmetry can be categorized into two types: formal symmetry and informal symmetry.

Formal Symmetry

Formal symmetry, also known as bilateral symmetry, occurs when an image can be divided into two equal halves along a vertical or horizontal line, with each half mirroring the other. This type of symmetry is the most easily recognizable and often creates a sense of stability and order.

When using formal symmetry, it’s important to ensure that the elements on both sides of the axis are equally balanced in terms of shape, color, and visual weight. This will help create a sense of equilibrium and make the composition visually pleasing.

One of the most famous examples of formal symmetry in photography is the reflection of a subject on a calm body of water. The reflected image creates a perfect mirror image, resulting in a powerful composition.

Informal Symmetry

Informal symmetry, also known as approximate symmetry or radial symmetry, occurs when a composition doesn’t have a clear central axis but still maintains a sense of balance and harmony through the arrangement of elements.

Unlike formal symmetry, informal symmetry allows for slight variations in the placement, shape, or size of the elements. This type of symmetry often creates a more dynamic and visually interesting composition.

Examples of informal symmetry include the petals of a flower radiating outward or the spokes of a bicycle wheel. Although these compositions may not be perfectly mirrored, they still create a sense of equilibrium and visual appeal.

How to Create Symmetrical Compositions

  1. Choose a Subject with Symmetrical Elements: Look for subjects that already possess symmetrical features or can be arranged symmetrically. This could be a building with a symmetrical façade, a person striking a symmetrical pose, or objects that can be arranged in a symmetrical pattern.
  2. Find the Right Perspective: Experiment with different angles and viewpoints to find the best perspective that highlights the symmetry in your composition. Sometimes, a slight adjustment in camera position can make a significant difference.
  3. Use a Tripod: To achieve perfect symmetry, it’s essential to keep the camera stable. Using a tripod will help you maintain a consistent alignment and avoid any unwanted camera movements.
  4. Pay Attention to Background and Foreground: Ensure the background and foreground elements are symmetrical or complement the overall symmetry of the composition. Remove any distracting elements that might disturb the harmony.
  5. Play with Reflections: As mentioned earlier, reflections can create stunning symmetrical compositions. Look for reflective surfaces such as water, glass, or shiny objects to add an extra dimension of symmetry to your photographs.
  6. Explore Editing Techniques: Post-processing can further enhance the sense of symmetry in your images. Experiment with cropping, cloning, or mirroring techniques to fine-tune the composition and create a more impactful image.
  7. Break the Symmetry Intentionally: While symmetry is visually pleasing, breaking it intentionally can add an element of surprise and create a more dynamic composition. Don’t be afraid to experiment and deviate from the expected!

Conclusion

The art of symmetry holds incredible power in photography. By understanding and incorporating symmetric compositions into your work, you can create visually striking and harmonious photographs. Remember to experiment with both formal and informal symmetry, consider the subject, perspective, and background, and be bold in breaking the symmetry when necessary.

Now, it’s your turn to go out there and capture the beauty of symmetry in your photographs. Share your symmetrical compositions in the comments below and let’s inspire and learn from each other!