Visual Elements
Principles of Composition
Visual Elements
Principles of Composition
Vocabulary
100
This element is 3 dimensional with length, height, and width
What is Form
100

This principle makes an artwork feel equal in visual weight.

What is Balance

100

This element is the lightness or darkness of a color.

What is Value

100

The size(or amount) of an element in relation to others. 

What is proportion?

100

A lens with an extremely large focal length and a narrow angle of view. 

What is a telephoto lens? 

200
This element is the path created by a point moving in space. (A dot that went for a walk)
What is line
200

This principle show the amount of difference between elements. 

What is Contrast?

200

This element refers to 3D objects

What is Form?

200

This principle of composition is when things are exactly the same on both sides of an artwork.

What is Symmetrical Balance

200

A lens that causes a lot of distortion around the edges of the image. 

What is a fisheye lens?

300
This element is the light reflected off an object. Sometimes we use the word HUE to describe it.
What is color
300

This principle shows oneness. It makes the work feel complete.

What is Unity

300

This element is two dimensional and is made when a line meets itself and closes.

What is Shape

300

This principle of design creates a feeling similar to dance or music by using repeating elements ( lines, textures etc...)

What is rhythm/movement?

300

A lens that is thicker in the middle and gathers light together. 

What is a convex lens?

400
This element has to do with the surface quality of an object.
What is texture
400

This principle grabs your attention and makes you look at a specific area of the artwork.

What is Emphasis

400

This type of shape is man made and has rules.

What is Geometric

400

Having lots of different elements together to create visual interest. 

What is Variety?

400

The distance between the lens and the sensor. Affects zoom. 

What is focal length?

500

The area surrounding an object,  2 types positive & negative (shows the illusion of depth).

What is space

500

This principle makes your eye follow a path through the artwork.

What is Movement

500

This type of shape is found in nature and can appear wavy or irregular.

What is Organic

500

Repetition of the elements.

What is pattern?

500

This refers to the object of focus in an artwork. What it is about. 

What is the subject?