Principles of Balance

The principle of variety emphasizes that the elements in a composition need to be alike enough so we perceive them as belonging together and different enough to be interesting.

1. It is a reconciliation of opposing forces in a composition that results in visual stability.

Too much contrast in a composition can makes it a lot more interesting.

The greater the difference of the elements in a composition, the greater is the contrast.

Unity has been achieved when all aspects of the design compete for attention.

According to the rule of thirds, when viewing images people’s eyes usually go to the center of the shot.

One way of achieving informal balance is putting bigger object farther away from the center to balance a smaller object that is closer to the center.

Variety makes a work of art more interesting.

Asymmetrical balance can be achieved by using small areas of vibrant color to balance larger areas of more neutral colors.

Large areas with interesting textures can balance smaller areas with smooth textured looks to achieve balance.

A vibrantly colored smaller objects farther away from the center will balanced a larger neutrally colored object that is closer to the center.

Edges, shapes, and/or groups can be used to balance a heavier side by having the eye direction point to the lighter side, thus transferring visual importance.

The golden ratio is known to be the perfect proportion.

To achieve a good facial proportion, the lips must be drawn halfway between the forehead and the chin.