Composition Rules in Depth: Embrace Diagonals
- Gary Holpin
- 3 days ago
- 6 min read
Those of you who followed my series of blogs on 'The ten ingredients of great landscape photos' will know that composition comes very high up the list! Those of you who have attended any of my training courses will also know that I always teach composition as the first topic. Why? Because learning the art of composition is the most important skill for any developing photographer; in fact, simply by mastering composition, you can hugely improve your photos with any camera. It's for this reason that, in this series of blogs, we're looking in depth at the art of composition.
The ingredients of great landscape photos
Other than finding a great subject to photograph, composition is the next most important factor in any great landscape photo.
What are composition rules?
I firmly believe that understanding and improving your composition is the quickest and easiest way to improve your photos, whatever camera you use. This is why it’s the topic that I always cover first in all of my training courses, both for mobile phone users and DSLR camera users
Why do snaps so rarely do justice to a beautiful view?
I'm sure we've all stood looking at a beautiful view, pointed our camera at it and snapped the shutter, only to get home and realised that whilst the view was beautiful, the photo is just plain dull! The reason for this is that we are used to seeing with our amazing binocular vision which sees the world in in three dimensions. As soon as we lose that third dimension in creating a two- dimensional photo, this view can immediately lose its essence. Put simply, a two-dimensional representation of a beautiful view can often be boring!
So, how do we make photos of beautiful views interesting?
To make a two-dimensional landscape photo more interesting, it's necessary to use one or more tricks, to build interest into the image. In a 'point and shoot’ snap of that beautiful view, there is likely to be little to grab the interest of the viewer, and they are more than likely to glance at it and then look away (which equals boring!). Instead, to develop as a photographer, you need to move away from taking a snap and move towards composing an image which grabs the viewers’ attention, pulling them into, and through the photo. This journey forces them to look longer at the photo, and in doing so, makes it more interesting to look at.
One of the easiest ways of improving that photo is to use one or more little tricks, often called ‘composition rules’ to make the image more interesting to look at and help to do better justice to that beautiful view. Although there are loads of composition rules (just Google it and you will find hundreds!), below are a handful of what I believe are the most powerful ones to have in your mental checklist when composing a photo.
Ensure you have a focal point
Construct your frame using the rule of thirds
Utilise lead-in lines to help draw the viewer into the frame
Use layers to help give depth
Find foreground interest especially when shooting wide
Embrace symmetry
Provide a sense of scale
Use the rule of odds
Keep your edges clean
Embrace diagonals
Use negative space
Ensure balance
Over this series of blogs, we'll look in detail at each of these 'rules' to help equip you with a mental checklist for how to compose better landscapes.
Composition Rule Number 10: Embrace Diagonals
The Power of Diagonals in Landscape Photography Composition
As landscape photographers, we’re constantly seeking ways to bring depth, and energy to our images. While the rule of thirds is a reliable starting point, exploring the use of diagonals can truly elevate your compositions, giving your landscapes a sense of movement and dynamism that straight lines and static horizons often lack.
What Are Diagonals in Photography?
Simply put, a diagonal line is any line in your frame that isn’t perfectly vertical or horizontal. It could be a river winding through a valley, a fallen tree, a mountain ridge, or even the edge of a shadow stretching across the land. Diagonals can be natural or manmade, bold or subtle, but they all share one thing: they guide the viewer’s eye through the image, creating a visual journey.
Aren't Diagonals and Leading Lines the Same Thing?
All diagonals can act as leading lines, but not all leading lines are diagonals. Leading lines can be vertical, horizontal, curved, or diagonal.
Why Use Diagonals?
1. Leading the Eye
One of the most compelling reasons to use diagonals is their ability to act as leading lines. A diagonal starting in the foreground and moving towards the background naturally draws the viewer’s gaze into the scene, encouraging them to explore different elements along the way. This is especially useful in busy landscapes, where a strong diagonal can provide direction to the viewer.
2. Adding Depth and Perspective
Diagonals help to break up flatness in an image. By connecting the foreground, middle ground, and background, they create a sense of three-dimensionality and perspective. For example, a path or stream cutting diagonally across your frame can make the landscape feel more immersive and lifelike.
3. Injecting Energy and Dynamism
Unlike vertical or horizontal lines, which feel stable and calm, diagonals introduce a sense of movement and tension. They can make your images feel more alive, as if the landscape itself is in motion. This is particularly effective for dramatic scenes, such as stormy skies or rugged coastlines.
Finding and Creating Diagonals
Look for Natural Diagonals:
Rivers, paths, fences, and mountain ridges are classic examples.
Patterns in sand, or lines in a ploughed field can also form striking diagonals.
Adjust Your Position:
Sometimes, a diagonal isn’t obvious until you move. Try changing your angle, height, or distance from your subject. Even a small shift can turn a static line into a dynamic diagonal.
Use the Foreground:
Placing a strong diagonal in the foreground can anchor your composition and lead the eye deeper into the scene. This works well with wide-angle lenses, which exaggerate perspective and make diagonals more pronounced.
Combine with Other Composition Techniques:
Diagonals don’t have to replace the rule of thirds; they can complement it. For example, you might place the horizon along a third, then use a diagonal to guide the viewer towards your main subject.
Practical Tips
Avoid Splitting the Frame: If a diagonal runs directly from one corner to the opposite, it can divide the image awkwardly. Instead, try starting the line just above or below the corner for a more natural flow.
Don’t Overdo It: Too many diagonals can make a photo feel chaotic. Use them thoughtfully to guide the eye without overwhelming the viewer.
Look for Patterns: Repeating diagonals, such as rows of crops or waves, can create abstract and visually engaging images.
Final Thoughts
Diagonals are a powerful tool in landscape photography, offering a way to add energy, depth, and direction to your images. With a bit of practice and a keen eye, you’ll start to spot potential diagonals everywhere-from winding country lanes to the diagonal line of a rugged coastline. Next time you’re out with your camera, take a moment to look for those lines that cut across the landscape. They might just be the key to your next standout shot.
In the image below, the repeated diagonals of the crops helps to add dynamism to the shot, as well as textural interest.
Want professional help improving your photography skills?
Don't forget that if you want some direct help with your photography, I offer a range of 1-2-1 photography courses for Devon based folks. If you're not nearby then I also offer residential workshops for beginner photographers or improving photographers.
About Gary Holpin Photography
As a professional photographer based in Devon, my journey began along the stunning South West Coast Path. Disappointed with my initial attempts to capture its beauty, I embarked on a second 630-mile journey, this time dedicated to mastering photography. Today, I'm a nationally acclaimed photographer with award-winning landscape photos.
I specialize in providing top-notch property photography, business photography, and drone photography services to businesses across the South West. Additionally, I offer comprehensive photography training courses tailored for both businesses and individuals. Whether you're looking to enhance your corporate image or improve your personal photography skills, my training programs are designed to help you capture stunning images.
As an award-winning and widely published photographer, I frequently share my passion for photography and Devon through engaging talks at local camera clubs and community groups. My expertise spans the entire South West region, ensuring that clients from Devon, Dorset & Somerset benefit from high-quality photography services and training.
