*Composition is how you compose (or arrange) your photo within the frame of your camera to help get the desired effect. Symmetrical composition is very stable with two halves that mirror each other.
*Lines are used to lead the viewer’s eye around or into the photograph. The various different types include horizontal, vertical, a combination of the two, diagonal, and curved lines. These lines can both simplify your photo or make it more complex.
*Shape is a two-dimensional image that includes only width and height. They are usually defined by a line in the photograph.
*Form and shape go hand in hand, but you add depth to shape to get form. These qualities make the 2-D photo appear to be 3-D.
*Space is used to create a feeling of depth. The area around the primary image in the photo is called negative space. This can accentuate the emotion involved, and draw the viewer into your subject.
*Color is the light that reflects off of objects based on hue, value, and intensity. These characteristics determine the colors that hit the human eye and the camera lens. Hue describes what color appears as, value is the brightness of the color, and intensity is the strength that color has.
*Textures are implied by color, lines, and shading to help the viewer get a feel of the object by a sort of “visual touch”.
*Value is how bright a certain color is. These are used to create the mood of your photo. Darker colors are often used to portray a mysterious or somber mood, while lighter, more upbeat colors make for a happier feel.