Composition

#1

I need as much information as possible on composition… … How do I make better illustrations/graphic designs?

How do you evaluate the composition in a illustrations/graphic designs?

#2

First rule of composition: [b]If it looks right, it is right.

[/b]That’s the only “rule,” as such, that matters. Remember, the point of good composition is to lead the viewers eye through the frame in a more or less circular motion–i.e., the eye keeps circulating through the picture, and nothing leads the eye out of the picture’s boundaries. Anyway, over time, certain guidelines have developed that lend themselves to more enjoyable compositions.

  1. The Rule of Thirds. This is the big one. Divide your picture up into nine equal rectangles by dividing into thirds along each side. Generally, placing your focal point along one of the four lines is a good idea. Centering your focal point is generally a very bad idea–too stable.

  2. If you’re going to have more than one of a given object, character, or shape, try to include an odd number of them. It looks better than including an even number…who knows why.

  3. If you’re going to have more than one of a given object, try to vary the intervals between them. Regular intervals (except on machinery) tend to weaken composition.

  4. Use more fine detail in your focal area(s). Eyes will be drawn to detail.

  5. Similarly, saturated colors and/or bright colors tend to draw in the eye.

  6. When possible, use lines to draw the eye in toward the focal point. This can be done with literal lines or implied ones, or even via brushstrokes.

  7. In general, variety is good–monotony is bad.

  8. Diagonal and/or curved lines can be used to increase the sense of dynamism.

Remember–whatever looks right is right.

#3

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