photography Flashcards
Line
The path created by a moving point. It can define shapes, create textures, and lead the viewer’s eye.
Shape
A two-dimensional area enclosed by lines. Shapes can be geometric (e.g., squares, circles) or organic (e.g., leaves, freeform).
Form
A three-dimensional object having volume and thickness. Forms can be viewed from different angles.
Space
The area around, between, or within objects. It includes positive space (filled areas) and negative space (empty areas).
Texture
The surface quality of an object that can be seen and felt. Texture adds depth and interest.
Color
Color Consists of hue (name of the color), value (lightness or darkness), and intensity (brightness or dullness).
Value
The lightness or darkness of tones or colors. Value adds contrast and helps to create the illusion of depth.
Balance
The distribution of visual weight. It can be symmetrical (formal balance) or asymmetrical (informal balance).
Contrast
Contrast: The difference between elements (e.g., light vs. dark, rough vs. smooth) to create visual interest.
Emphasis
The focal point of the image that draws the viewer’s attention.
Movement
The path the viewer’s eye takes through the artwork. This can be directed by lines, shapes, colors, etc.
Pattern/Repetition
Repeating elements to create unity and rhythm.
Rhythm
Created by repeating elements to create a sense of movement or flow.
Unity/Harmony
When all elements work together to create a cohesive and pleasing composition.
What is Aperture:
size for the lens where the light enters the camera.
Measured in f-stops (e.g., f/2.8, f/4, f/5.6, f/8, f/11, f/16).
A larger aperture
smaller f-stop number lets in more light and creates a shallow depth of field (background blur).
Smaller aperture
(larger f-stop number) lets in less light and creates a greater depth of field (more of the scene in focus).
Shutter speed
Shutter speed is amount of time camera’s shutter is open to expose light onto the camera sensor.
Measured in seconds or fractions of a second (e.g., 1/1000, 1/500, 1/250, 1/60, 1/30,
What is a faster shutter speed do?
A faster shutter speed freezes motion (useful for action shots).
What is a lower shutter speed do?
A slower shutter speed can create motion blur (useful for artistic effects or low light situations).
ISO
ISO measures the sensitivity of the camera sensor to light.
Lower ISO
Lower ISO values (e.g., 100, 200) are less sensitive to light and produce finer grain (less noise).
Higher ISO
Higher ISO values (e.g., 800, 1600, 3200) are more sensitive to light but can produce more grain (more noise).
Rule of Thirds
Divide the image into a 3x3 grid. Place the subject along the lines or at the intersections to create balance and interest.
Leading Lines
Use natural lines to lead the viewer’s eye towards the main subject of the photograph.
Framing
Use elements within the scene to create a frame around the subject, drawing attention to it.
Symmetry and Patterns
Capture symmetrical scenes or repeating patterns to create a sense of harmony and rhythm.
Viewpoint
Change the angle or perspective from which you shoot to add interest and uniqueness to the photograph.
Background
Simplify the background to avoid distractions and make the subject stand out.
Depth
Create a sense of depth by including objects in the foreground, middle ground, and background.
Cropping
Crop tightly to eliminate unnecessary elements and focus on the subject.
