Composition Rules in Depth: Embrace Symmetry
- Gary Holpin
- May 21
- 5 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. Â
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 6: Embrace Symmetry
Introduction
Symmetry is a powerful composition tool, particularly in landscape photography, where it can create visually striking images that evoke feelings of harmony and balance. In this post we will explore the importance of symmetry in landscape photography, discuss different types of symmetry, and provide practical tips on how to incorporate symmetry into your compositions.
The Power of Symmetry in Landscape Photography
Symmetry in landscape photography can enhance the perception of depth and perspective by creating layers within the composition. It adds a sense of order and natural balance, drawing the viewer's eye deeper into the scene. Symmetrical elements, such as reflections on water, can create a visually appealing image that stands out and resonates with viewers.
Types of Symmetry in Landscape Photography
Horizontal Symmetry: This is one of the most visually striking forms of symmetry, often seen in reflections on calm water, mirroring hills, trees, or skylines. Calm water is most often found in lakes and canals, but can also be found in the humble puddle of water.
Vertical Symmetry: Commonly used in architectural photography, vertical symmetry emphasizes size, shape, and form. However, it can also be applied to natural landscapes, such as symmetrical mountain peaks.
Reflective Symmetry: This type of symmetry is particularly favoured in landscape photography, where reflections on water can create a mirrored effect.
Radial Symmetry: Though less common in landscapes, radial symmetry can be observed in patterns like ripples in water or the structure of certain natural formations.
Techniques for Capturing Symmetry
Use a Tripod: Ensure your camera is perfectly aligned with the symmetrical elements to maintain precision.
Frame Your Shot Carefully: Take time to position yourself centrally to the symmetrical elements, ensuring both halves of the image mirror each other.
Check the Horizon: Keep the horizon level to maintain symmetry, especially in horizontal compositions.
Post-Processing Adjustments: Use cropping and alignment tools to perfect the symmetry in your images if needed.
Combining Symmetry with Other Composition Techniques
Symmetry can be combined with other composition techniques, such as leading lines or negative space, to enhance the visual impact of your images. Leading lines can guide the viewer's eye through the symmetrical composition, while negative space helps highlight the symmetrical elements.
Additional Tips for Practicing Symmetry in Landscape Photography
Look for Natural Symmetry: Nature is full of symmetrical patterns, from reflections in water to symmetrical rows of trees.
Experiment with Different Angles: Don't be afraid to experiment with different angles and perspectives to enhance the symmetrical effect.
Practice Patience: Wait for the right conditions, such as calm water, to capture perfect reflections.
Find Still Water or Try a Long Shutter Speed:Â For capturing sharp reflections, it's generally better to use a short exposure with still water, as this will provide a clear mirror-like effect, however in some situations, blurring the water using a long shutter speed can enhance reflections when the water is not entirely still.
Examples of The Power of Symmetry in Landscape Photography
Below are some examples of where natural symmetry of a scene reflected in water has been used as the main composition tool. Do you think they work?
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.