The Rules of Composition in Drawing
The rules of composition in visual art help guide the viewer's gaze and provide a smooth and enjoyable reading of the image. For a beginner, understanding these rules may seem technical at first, but they help organize space, balance visual elements and make an image more dynamic. These rules are not strict constraints, but tools that, when mastered, improve the readability and impact of your creations. We will therefore explore the main rules of composition through this article.
THE RULE OF THIRDS
The rule of thirds is one of the simplest and most used in composition. It involves dividing the image into nine equal parts by drawing two horizontal lines and two vertical lines, thereby forming a grid. The idea is to place the important elements of the scene along these lines or at their intersections. This creates a more dynamic and balanced composition, avoiding the systematic centering of subjects.
For a beginner, this rule is an excellent way to give a natural structure to the image and to guide the gaze smoothly through the scene.
S-CURVE COMPOSITION
The Rule of S or S-Curve is a technique that involves creating a sinuous line that weaves through the image, forming a sort of "S". It can be used to guide the viewer’s eye towards a key element or to create a sense of depth and dynamism in the composition. The use of "S" is particularly effective in landscapes or scenes where the goal is to create a visual path, but it can be adapted to any type of composition.
DIAGONAL COMPOSITION
Diagonal composition uses a line that crosses the image diagonally, creating a sense of movement and energy. These lines can be natural, like a river or a road, or completely abstract, like interplays of light and shadow. Diagonals draw the eye and encourage the viewer to scan the entire image. For beginners, it can be helpful to start thinking in terms of diagonals to structure the scene and avoid overly rigid compositions.
THE GOLDEN RATIO
The golden ratio is a mathematical concept that can be applied to visual composition to create harmonious proportions. It is often expressed by a golden rectangle, whose dimensions follow the ratio 1:1.618. By dividing the image according to this ratio, you obtain natural points of interest to guide you where to place the key elements of the scene.
This principle is more subtle and abstract than the rule of thirds, but it enables a highly sought-after aesthetic balance. Generally, the golden ratio is simplified with a curve, so the ratio is not perfect, but the essential idea of the composition is conveyed.
UNBALANCED COMPOSITION
Imbalance might seem counterintuitive, but it has its role in composition. Unlike rules that aim to distribute elements equally, imbalance plays with asymmetry to create a more dynamic visual effect.
By moving an important object towards one of the edges of the image, you can create an interesting tension that captures the viewer's attention. This principle is ideal for compositions where you want to surprise the gaze and break away from the rigidity of more classical rules.
C-CURVE COMPOSITION
The Rule of C or C-Curve is based on creating a shape that resembles the letter "C". This can be a curve or a line that encompasses part of the scene, directing the viewer's gaze around a central point. This "C" shaped movement creates a sense of continuity and fluidity, and can frame a particular element or area of the image.
It's a good way to bring a sense of closure or completeness to a composition, guiding the eye while allowing it to linger on key elements.
L-SHAPED COMPOSITION
The Rule of L is similar to that of C, but it forms a right angle. An element of the composition (such as a line or an object) creates an "L" shape by directing the viewer's gaze from one corner of the image to another.
This rule is useful for organizing space in a balanced way and can also create a strong sense of stability and structure. For a beginner, using the "L" is a simple way to add some rigor while maintaining a fluid composition.
V-SHAPED COMPOSITION
The Rule of V involves using elements that together form the letter "V", like two lines meeting at a point. This shape directs the gaze downward or toward the center of the image, thereby creating a sense of depth and perspective. It’s a particularly effective rule for scenes where you want to draw attention to a specific point while suggesting a deep view, such as in a landscape or a scene with linear elements.
These rules are solid foundations for any beginner, but remember that they are primarily there to guide creation. As you gain experience, you will be able to use them with more freedom and creativity, so do not see them as a hindrance but rather as a guide in your progress.
Writer and illustrator: Chloé Pouteau
