The 15 Elements of Photography Composition

[@anthonydavis0704]

I think that was the best photography tutorial I have ever seen, clear, concise and informative and all without shouting and loud music too. Please make more videos.

[@peterevans6086]

Goodness me, Anthony; thank you; that comment means a lot to me. Now our season is over, I have a couple of ideas in mind for future videos. Watch this space! :-)

[@philosimot]

It's very rare that a video about photography convinces me as much as yours, Peter. And this from a guy who has been taking photographs for almost 70 years (that's me;-)))

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you for your kind comment. It's encouraging and motivates me to do more. I apologise for the late reply but I've been in London visiting my daughter in hospital. She's now home and recovering well. And I'm now back in France preparing for my upcoming tutoring week, starting on the 21st September.

[@MediaBPictures]

This video deserves to go viral among photographers! I have never seen such a concise but thorough tutorial on composition!

[@peterevans6086]

Wow, thank you for your kind comment. I just watched your 'Trash the Dress' video with Ana and Radu. Impressive !

[@MediaBPictures]

@@peterevans6086 Thank you! 🙏 We've been leaning more on photography lately, I really think of myself as having a natural gift towards composition, but I've identified a few areas to improve after watching your video. Also found out how I could have made some of my recent pictures better, but now it's too late to fix in post 🥲 Again, thank you and please post more! Cheers!

[@albertor.bandrich8753]

And non photographers. 📸📸📸📸

[@HigherAEM]

I’m speechless ! I’ve watched and studied many photography tutorial to improve on my photography but this was BY FAR, and I’m not even exaggerating, the BEST one I’ve ever seen. Sir Peter Evans, I thank you for this amazing tutorial. I’ll be a lot more conscientious of these 15 elements moving forward. Again, thank you 🙏🏾

[@peterevans6086]

Wow, my goodness! Thank you for those very kind comments. And as for thanking me, you're most welcome. Helping people improve their photography is what I'm here for.

[@lescobrandon3047]

From an 83 year old who knew what i had learned while using a 35mm film SLR: I thought I knew it all until watching this video. You have opened my eyes to so many ‘rules’ that I had never considered. Thank you so much.

[@peterevans6086]

You're very welcome; I'm pleased that you have a new way of 'seeing'. However, apart from the absolute rule of having a Point of Interest, I prefer to think not of 'rules' but rather of 'guides' (remember that Oscar Wilde quotation!) Good luck with your future photography and I hope I've been able to help you get a higher percentage of 'wall-hangers' :-)

[@RobertodelaRosa-bv2py]

This is by far (by very far) the best video on composition I have ever seen. In my opinion, if you only could see one video to learn photography this would be it! 👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@peterevans6086]

Wow, thank you, Roberto! Very much appreciated !

[@richardtoft6998]

I was about to leap on here and say this is simply the best video on photographic composition I have ever seen… and then looked at the other comments and saw everybody else had beaten me to it! Congratulations on delivering this masterclass in a very clear and beautifully illustrated manner. No waffle, no grandstanding, and even the title is clear, concise and without click-bait. This is one of the rare diamonds that makes KZbin worth mining.

[@peterevans6086]

Wow thank you, Richard! I'm glad you enjoyed it and I hope it was useful to you. The diamond analogy is very kind and much appreciated. I'm not sure how deep the seam goes, mind you; we'll see when my next video gets published - coming soon to a screen near you ;-)

[@alans3023]

One of the best short photography tutorials I have ever seen. Explained in plain English and with well chosen examples to make it even simpler. Well, simpler to understand but I suspect putting it all into practice will require a lot more, well, practice. Thank you.

[@peterevans6086]

You're very welcome Alan. And thank you for the kind comment. You know what they say about practice... ;-)

[@alans3023]

@@peterevans6086 Just got back from 10 days on Skye and am already looking at my photos with a new eye. Thanks.

[@peterevans6086]

Great to hear! 👍

[@guyphoto9437]

The photograph of the lady in red sitting on a curb is absolutely gorgeous. Beautiful image. I love it! All of your images are great, but this particular one immediately caught my eye; it's got everything in it a photograph should have, composition, emotion, you name it, it's there. Great job!

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you for the kind words, Guy. But a large part of the image's success is due to my model. Not only is she beautiful and intelligent (with a degree in law and speaking French, English, Spanish, and Basque) but she also studied drama in Paris and Los Angeles. In any situation, a brief explanation of what I'm looking for is all it takes for her to give me exactly the shot I'm after.

[@eljin00]

One of the best photographer's on KZbin, Let me explain, The bridge photograph depicts a woman crossing an elegantly designed Bridge, However the woman caring the bags has a rather nostalgic look about her which sets the picture off. Absolutely stunning !

[@peterevans6086]

Wow, thank you so much for that Eljin! That photo is one of my favourites. I had the idea for the image after coming across the location by accident and falling in love those lamps. So I went back there the following week when the weather forecast was for an early evening with cloudless skies. With the image in my head, I stood on the riverside with my DSLR and 400mm lens and waited for the right person to walk over the bridge. I gave myself a maximum of an hour to get the shot. After 55 minutes of no-one anywhere near suitable arriving, and on the point of driving home after a wasted trip, this woman appeared. I couldn't believe it; it was as if she'd walked out of some 1950's movie! My wife and I call it my 'Meryl Streep' photo. Many people have said how lucky I was to get the shot, but I've always believed that, most of the time, you make your own luck ;-)

[@coryburns13]

This video has been popping up in my feed for a few days now and I had it saved to my watch later because I was struck by the image in the thumbnail…but I couldn’t put my finger on WHY. Now that I’ve had time to watch and hear all your points I totally see it. Great video, thank you!!!

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you Cory I apologise for the late reply but I've been in London visiting my daughter in hospital. She's now home and recovering well. And I'm now back in France preparing for my upcoming tutoring week, starting on the 21st September.

[@Dinu3365]

i have watched so many tutorials and photography youtube movies, but none of them convinced me as much as yours, thank you Peter

[@peterevans6086]

Wow, thanks! I really appreciate that comment.

[@azalbalushi]

I woke up this morning with absolutely no plans to watch a full photography tutorial. In an hour I have to catch a flight… yet the image on youtube attracted my attention.. I ended up watching the whole video… it was quite revealing… thank you for sharing your thoughts

[@peterevans6086]

I'm glad my point of interest got you 'hooked' ;-) I hope you didn't miss your flight!

[@sellignomod83]

Merci de partager vos connaissances en photographies. Vous êtes un excellent enseignant. C’est net, précis et concis. J’espère que vous allez continuer. Merci beaucoup

[@peterevans6086]

De rien, Sellig. Et merci beaucoup pour votre commentaire, vous êtes très gentil. Je travaille actuellement sur ma prochaine vidéo ;-)

[@clementmanuel1987]

This video has a chockful of principles on photography composition not seen in other videos. This is an excellent tutorial. Thank you, Mr Evans.

[@peterevans6086]

You're welcome! I'm glad you found it useful

[@EngRMP]

What a great intro into photography. As a 68 yo engineer, who has had to take photos for work, the ONLY element I figured out on my own was: control the background. Now, that I see these 15 elements, they all make SO much sense. Great description and great examples. Thanks so much.

[@peterevans6086]

You're welcome. I hope you can now go out and create some great wall-hangers ! ;-)

[@MohammedAnsari-h2v]

It’s THE Best Master Class I had ever watched without batting my eyelid. Using the right examples, the right words, right volume, no animation, no music, no calls to share. This class was just like your photography. This will go into the Master Pieces section of my digital library. 🏆Thanks a million, Peter, for putting this together.

[@peterevans6086]

Wow! Goodness me, Mohammed. Thank you! And you're very welcome, by the way.

[@DerMende]

Wow, probably one of the best guides about photography I've seen in a while! Would love to see more from you!

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you very much for your kind comment. I'll see what I can do! ;-)

[@ianross04]

Has to be the best active lesson with fantastic examples in Photography ive ever watched. Thank you so much

[@peterevans6086]

Wow, thanks! You're welcome. I hope it helps you create a higher percentage of wall-hangers! 👍😉

[@ianross04]

@@peterevans6086 I have tried for years Peter. Think I've managed just 2 or 3 wall-hangers (one of them being my profile image of my old policedog). In 20 years as as hard as I try, I struggle at being average. I would enrol in your workshop in a heartbeat if you were near. Just sub'd to you channel

[@vadimsherezdanov1769]

The best composition tutorial I ever met anywhere!!! Clearly explained and brilliantly illustrated. Thank you so much!

[@peterevans6086]

You're very welcome, Vadim. And a big thank you for your kind comment.

[@deathvalley1592]

EXCELLENT INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO. VERY WELL DONE. WATCHING FROM BRITISH COLUMBIA.

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you very much. B.C. is a beautiful province; you must be getting some great wall-hangers!

[@nonexman]

Your video has popped up in my "suggested" feeds for about a week now, and I finally viewed it. Wow, just wow. I was aware of some dynamics you pointed out; some I intrinsically knew from experience, and others were beyond obvious (once you pointed them out). As someone who's been taking photos for over 50 years (I'm 74), thanks for making me eager to run outside and take more photos to see how well I absorbed your knowledge. Thank you!

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you very much, Gary. A comment like that means a lot to me. Good luck with your next photographic outing !

[@callending]

What really struck me the most was the complete unnecessity of engaging the "equipment" side of good skills. YT is full of emphasis on bokeh, dynamic range, minimum/maximum specs, etc., and what your video pointed out (as you'd mentioned from a proper exposure perspective) is just how utterly secondary those equipment specs matter in light of what compromises a quality, legacy image that's interesting. Many thanks for the old school approach!

[@peterevans6086]

You're welcome. And thank you for the comment. I often wonder how on earth Ansel Adams, W. Eugene Smith, Don McCullin, Helmut Newton, and all the other greats ever managed to get a photograph without 'smiling face recognition' Something I ask my students to ponder on ;-)

[@alanshao6844]

The most enlightening and detailed and in-depth sharing I have seen ever!

[@peterevans6086]

Wow Alan. Really? That's very kind. Thank you

[@johnhoey7717]

Amazingly wonderful video! Even a well-seasoned photographer such as I was able to learn a ton of vital information.

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you, John! I apologise for the late reply but I've been in London visiting my daughter in hospital. She's now home and recovering well. And I'm now back in France preparing for my upcoming tutoring week, starting on the 21st September.

[@narayananmuthiah3627]

One of the best tips on composition I have ever come across

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you, Narayanan. I'm glad you liked it.

[@duongbui2926]

I can’t believe I am already a better photographer after half an hour of your tutorial. Thank you so much.

[@peterevans6086]

You're very welcome, Duong. That comment made me smile :-)

[@NorbertGünther-u8v]

This is the best summary of composing for impactful photos I've seen so far. Class!

[@peterevans6086]

That's very kind of you to say so, Norbert, thank you. I'm pleased you found it useful.

[@gordonelwell7084]

Wow! Just wow! Probably the best and most comprehensive tutorial on compositional building blocks I have ever seen. Bravo!

[@peterevans6086]

Blimey! Thank you for that, Gordon. Much appreciated :-)

[@biggstavros5876]

I used to be a member of the RPS after getting two distinctions in Black and White photography in the `film only` days before digital even came out. Every shot had to be deliberate and thought out to get the composition and all other aspects spot on. I have just realised that I lost sight along the way after going digital. The part that especially got me was the looking space and moving space. Thanks for your video. It has got me back along the right tracks again. By the way, I`m getting back into film again with an Olympus OM10 and just the standard 50mm lens. I just love going out and only having 24 frames for a whole day of shooting. From a fellow Blues guitaist -Thank you, Thank you, Thank you.

[@peterevans6086]

You're more than welcome, Steve. I'm pleased I've been able to help you get you back on track! I think you're very brave to be going back to film; I was glad to see the back of it (too many hours of my life spent in a darkroom - years, in fact, if I were to add them all up). But whilst the processing side has been a massive boon for me, I feel that the equipment issue is getting out of hand, becoming so unnecessarily complicated over the last ten years as to become a real hindrance to the many people attending my workshops.

[@biggstavros5876]

@@peterevans6086 Thanks and I agree. It`s all about megapixels and fast lenses these days. The race is on to find the best camera but that isn`t the point. There`s too many videos on youtube that fixate on pixel peeping and lens abberation etc. What they don`t do is tell you how to take a good photo. A good photographer can take a fantastic picture with a basic point and shoot camera. I still have an old EOS350D which is 8.1megapixels and it produces amazing results. Ansell Adams said “There is nothing worse than a sharp image of a fuzzy concept.”

[@guillmunoz7474]

WOW - insightful, impactful and instructive.

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you! Glad you found it useful

[@liz2959]

This is fantastic. You are a great teacher! I am deeply grateful you posted this. Thank you.

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you, I appreciate you taking the time to comment.

[@erevan14]

It is one of the most organized and concise forms of presenting the rules of composition that I have seen. Given that I know all these rules of composition, but the way of presentation is perfect, fluid and coherent. With examples, with everything you need. Congratulations and I'm waiting for other videos.

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you very much. You won't have to wait long; another video is in production at this very moment ;-)

[@callmehank88]

Outstanding tutorial on composition, thank you. Some things I knew, and try to apply, others often forget to look for and then see my error in post, other I was completely oblivious to but were ah-ha moments during your presentation. I have to say the image of the model in the red dress is just perfect. I immediately was drawn to her expression and said to myself "well she looks like she's just had enough of whatever is going on" and then to hear your instruction for her to set the emotion of the scene.... Fantastic. Best composition tutorial by streets. Bravo.

[@peterevans6086]

Hi Hank (if I may call you that ?) ;-) Thank you very much indeed for your kind comment. It literally made my day because it came in last night around 23h CET, just 2 hours after a comment from @MHolt9999 that talked about my lack of empathy for the model (if in fact he did realise she was a model; perhaps he thought it was some random girl I stumbled across). Anyway, I'm absolutely delighted that you 'got it' in one. That means an awful lot to me. Thank you again.

[@ThoughtfulAl]

You are so very clear and focused in this lesson. KZbin success deserved. OK I'm leaving now.

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you; much appreciated.

[@thesushifiend]

A singularly excellent tutorial on composition. I haven’t even touched my camera in the last two weeks but I feel like I’ve just levelled up my photography. Thank you.

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you for the compliment. Much appreciated.

[@thierryhoornaert9950]

I must point out that there ARE 3 elements in this picture: the model obviously, her shoe and the posts behind her. They are sharp and add to the image. If you remove the posts, or the shoe, it would be less strong, with something missing. While I knew all of these rules, and use them, it never occurred to me to put so many of them in one picture. I will also say I think that was one of the best photography tutorias I have ever seen: clear, concise and informative (and all without shouting and loud music). I see you have been in Antwerp, the city where I live. Nice pictures overall!

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you for your kind comment, Thierry. You know, you're one of several people who have made a similar comment regarding the 'Rule of Threes', but I have to confess that yours is the most compelling yet. I'm almost persuaded ;-) Jill and I have a good friend who lives in Antwerp; it's a truly beautiful city.

[@alexsiuwh]

this material is not only essential, but examples of many real life scenarios and dilemma of photography . excellent material whatever your technical skill or artistic mind

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you, Alex.

[@StephenLim-p4o]

Wow. This is by far the best photography tutorial I have seen on you tube.

[@peterevans6086]

Wow, back at you Stephen! What a very kind thing to say. Much appreciated; thank you!

[@osmanalfurayh]

Thanks, I have seen hundreds of KZbin sessions and read many articles as well as participated in numerous workshops just to comprehend composition logic. Some 2 years ago I came across your KZbin channel and enjoyed your excellent deliberation. I wish you bring some more of the same!

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you. I will try! I apologise for the late reply but I've been in London visiting my daughter in hospital. She's now home and recovering well. And I'm now back in France preparing for my upcoming tutoring week, starting on the 21st September.

[@wilfrieddebergh6537]

One of the best video's about composition.

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you. Much appreciated.

[@RobertBallantyne-z9s]

What a fantastic review of concepts when taking a picture,plus, you included more than ten aspects that I had learn while taking pictures. Thank you for such incredible session of photography and how to make your own pictures more atractive. Magnifico...

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you, Robert; I'm glad you found it useful

[@johanminnie2213]

Thank you Peter... this guide is well designed and thought through. You've given us a set of briliant examples of what work and what does not work.and what has the potential to work as a wall-hanger... thanks.

[@peterevans6086]

I really appreciate that comment, Johan; it makes the time spent making the video worthwhile. I apologise for the late reply but I've been in London visiting my daughter in hospital. She's now home and recovering well. And I'm now back in France preparing for my upcoming tutoring week, starting on the 21st September.

[@atalbahri]

Your video came up in my feed just at the right time. I have been shooting for almost an year now and sort of struggle with how to improve my photos. I am sure your concepts will be great help in me moving in the right direction. Excellent video and thanks for sharing your knowledge!

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you! Keep striving for perfection; none of us will ever get there, but the more we try, the better photographers we become ;-)

[@JL-um8lf]

This is by far the best video on composition I have ever seen. Many thanks Peter

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you. You're very welcome

[@harlanlynn]

Peter, your photos are superb and it is truly a pleasure just looking at them. However, you take this to a new level with your superb analysis of what makes a great composition. I will watch this video more than once because it inspires me so much and there is so much to learn.

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you, Christopher, I really appreciate that. I'm so pleased that you're finding the video useful.

[@skfineshriber]

A very useful and instructive video on composition! So much better than only talking about grids, golden ratios and rule of thirds.

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you; I'm pleased that you found it useful.

[@x4g1706]

Please make more videos - I love your approach, presentation and ideas.

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you, Duane. I do have some new videos in the pipeline, so watch this space ;-)

[@alexa-n-gramps]

I agree. Composition is a point in artistic and creative photography that cannot be omitted, lessened, or forgotten. I learned photography from my grandfather. He was born, raised and learned his photography during the film era. I dragged him into the 21st century. Whether film or digital, one constant in all his photography and teaching of thousands worldwide has never changed. . You highlight COMPOSITION. He has one rule he teaches everyone that defines composition in a much harder light. He told me: If you can't envision, you can't SEE the image you wish to create in the viewfinder, no matter how much you paid for your equipment, no matter how many lessons, classes or courses you've had and no matter how much you know about your camera - IF YOU CAN'T SEE your image in your mind BEFORE you press that button - YOU HAVE ALREADY FAILED. . No matter how much technical or mechanical knowledge you have collected, without the ability to achieve creativity within your eye, your image will never possess true creative composition. There will be little to nothing in the aesthetics to attract and retain the attention of the viewer. It has nothing to with what time of day you shoot, nor does following the rule of thirds, or listening to those preaching the exposure triangle. These are not creative and serve only to trap the photographer in a box.

[@peterevans6086]

I'm glad we're in agreement, Alexa. It's all about recognising a worthwhile Point of Interest and seeing the potential for creating an image around it BEFORE you put the camera to your eye, as discussed in the video around 9:29. By the way, it sounds like your grandfather and I have travelled similar paths ;-) Please give him my best regards.

[@alexa-n-gramps]

@@peterevans6086 I will do that. Thank you. Happy Shooting!📸

[@mattgleason2617]

Peter thank you for that real lesson in composition! This is an extremely high value video and I thank you for sharing your great depth of knowledge with all of us.

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you for your kind comment, Matt, that's much appreciated.

[@65WZ]

Pearls of wisdom, Peter.. Thank you.

[@peterevans6086]

My pleasure. Thank you. I'm glad you liked it :-)

[@David-x9e5g]

A very good tutorial, just like what many have said - clear, succinct, and easy to understand. I hope you can produce more tutorials like this about photography! I would love to learn about the technical aspects of photography too. Thanks!

[@peterevans6086]

Thanks, David. I do have a number of ideas which will cover technical aspects, and one is in production as we speak. So, watch this space! ;-)

[@growthaccelerate4389]

@@peterevans6086 Looking forward to it! Subscribed!

[@thomasd6592]

The most concise, informative video on composition. Really hit home with me, now I'm off to photograph and start putting these elements into practice. Definitely made me click the "subscribe" button. Thanks, looking forward to more videos.

[@peterevans6086]

You're welcome, Thomas. And thank you for your kind comment; I'm glad the video was both helpful and motivating! As to more videos, I'm working on one as we speak, so watch this space ;-)

[@ddbogosian]

I especially appreciate your use of negative examples: things NOT to do. So many tutorials omit this, but it's essential to learning. Thank you.

[@peterevans6086]

You're welcome; and thank you for taking the time to comment

[@DavidMBanes]

Great to listen to you talking about looking space. I've been doing this anyway but hadn't realised it was a formal method, it just felt correct. I do it with cars always giving the headlamps looking space, or space to move into, moving or not.

[@peterevans6086]

I'm not sure that Looking Space and Moving Space are formal methods, David. In other words, I wasn't taught the concept; it's just something that, for me (and you, obviously), looks right 99% of the time and is an image spoiler if you don't pay attention to it.

[@airjaff]

Such a great video! One of the best videos I've seen on photography I've seen. Wish I had this when I was first starting. I'm learning a lot from you! Thank you. I could listen and learn about composition for hours day and years, and still not be able to master it hah

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you very much for your kind comment. I'll be uploading more videos in the not too distant future. I've just added a link to a PDF in the details above which you can use as an Aide Memoire if you wish ;-)

[@airjaff]

Amazing thank you ​@@peterevans6086

[@sidneycohen652]

Excellent. Very useful info. Very well presented. Interested to see more videos. Thank you!!!

[@peterevans6086]

You're welcome, Sidney, and thank you very much for your comment; I'm glad you found the tutorial useful. I'm actually working on a new video as we speak, so watch this space ;-}

[@mawavoy]

One of the best videos relating to composition, I have seen. Thanks for posting.

[@peterevans6086]

Wow, thank you, Michael! I hope you find it useful next time you're out with your camera.

[@ianoliver3879]

Well... Only bloody brilliant. Thank you very much for a photographic tutorial - plus a video turorial. That's the way to do it. Another thank you.

[@peterevans6086]

Your kind comment is much appreciated. I apologise for the late reply but I've been in London visiting my daughter in hospital. She's now home and recovering well. And I'm now back in France preparing for my upcoming tutoring week, starting on the 21st September.

[@mgeos1ds]

What an excellent video!! It’s been so long since I’ve been reminded of these simple things. These definitely make your images super impactful. 🙏🏽

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you, Marco. Much appreciated.

[@rickymcc9072]

Tres bien. Thanks Peter, an excellent thesis on composition that IMO 95% of photographers (100% of newbies) would do well to watch, learn and practice - if they wish to improve. I have been shooting as a serious and successful amateur for 40+ years (enjoying international awards, had the occasional image published, done a few paid assignments etc), but mostly shoot for fun). I can relate positively to almost everything you say, so I liked and subscribed. It was an excellent recap for me, well illustrated by many attractive images (perhaps no 'wall hangers' but that's subjective). Totally agree it's best not to obsess. I personally like to break the 'rules' aka guidelines, on occasion (good I think) which if nothing else can be amusing 'judge bait'. I, like you, started with slide film so quickly learnt that getting the framing/composition, right in camera, was vital rather than a post shoot option. A few minor points or quibbles from me - rule of odds!? One of my 'pet hates' is judges why occasionally, dogmatically, criticise an image because it contains an even number of whatever, rather than 1, 3, 5, 7 etc. It's not a prime number competition. I'd sooner reflect on that as the absolute last detail that might somehow be important, but consider all other point more worthy of consideration. It's up there with judges (in landscape work) stating that a closed field gate somehow blocks their eye from progressing into an image. Perhaps the easiest way to have your image(s) really stand out and command attention is to show something that is new, different, seldom seen or, ideally, new, innovative, radical etc and perhaps tells an empathetic story too. But with so many pics around it gets ever harder to see from a new creative perspective. But I try to make it one of my goals. Looking ultra low/high etc, perhaps with an ultra wide (complete with distortion of near/edge subjects) or macro, shift or tele lens can help. I just bought a Sony a9iii in quest of ultra dramatic sports shots and to experiment with flash and a global shutter to help subjuects 'pop' in daylight. Possibly one area you didn't cover (albeit I'm certain you understand) is the impotance of tonality. Our eyes are drawn to brighter subjects and tend to neglect the shadows. So, background highlights and bright objects near edge of frame or corners can easily distract. Withouyt looking too unnatural I try to ensure that important faces are brighter and models don't typically wear white. \post adjustments for tonality can help make composition better too. On your image of model and tram, for instance, I felt the traffic light at exteme LHS in green was a tad distracting. This may have benefitted from a little post editing - cloning, cropping (but maybe then too tight) or tonal darkening. It's me being ultra 'nit picky' as I like the image. But what do you think? But overall, one of the very best guides to composition that I have seen.

[@peterevans6086]

Thanks for the like and the subscription, Ricky, and also your input. I've made a living from photography (just about!) for very many years and never once entered a competition so I can't comment on the mindset of photo competition judges. I'm also a bit anti the idea of one image being 'better' than another. The 'Rule of odds' is step too far for me; IMHO once you get beyond three, the concept becomes over-complicated and pretentious. The concept of Threes is different however because it exists all around us in visual, written, and musical content creation. For some reason, we humans seem to have a liking for the concept of 'Three'. A few examples are the pawnbroker's sign, nursery rhymes like 'Three Blind Mice' and 'Three Little Pigs', the Holy Trinity, Triptychs, three act plays, three movements in concertos, and so on. In art and design, three objects are the first number to form a pattern, and the human brain likes patterns. Hence its inclusion in my 15 elements. Tone is something I don't see as a compositional element; I agree that it's important but, for me, it's more to do with mood, or punch. As to the tram shot, I left the traffic light there deliberately as it's part of the setting and it balances and harmonises with the two other greens in the image (the model's dress and the grass). But. as you say, everything is subjective. Your desire to "experiment with flash to help subjects 'pop' in daylight" was of particular interest as I'm currently working on a new video that discusses that very thing (amongst others) Anyway, thank you again for your input and I wish you well with your new camera.

[@franciscoexposito6705]

Hi Peter, I just want to tell you that this is a brilliant master class of composition. I had seen a lot of videos and this is far away the most comprehensive a clear to have a clear image what does mean the composition. Congrat for your excellent class.

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you very much, Francisco. I really appreciate that.

[@tacul9333]

Terrific. I've watched and read many videos and books on this subject. Still learned a lot from this.

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you. I'm glad it was of help to you.

[@grantbeerling4396]

Excellent tutorial for all types of composition, from architecture to arranging some flowers in a simple vase.

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you, much appreciated!

[@robertthomas9043]

This is a masterclass with clear, concise and useful information. The presentation and execution were excellent. I am sure this is a lot of work but would love to see more.

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you for that, Robert. Much appreciated. I'm working on a new video as we speak, so watch this space ;-)

[@ourhouseuk]

I think this is a wonderful video that so many should watch, even those who feel they are beyond beginner. Thank you. One point I’d make on motion space is intention. It may be that your target audience would find it over complicated but rather than leaving room to move my first question is whether I want to show them leaving or going. It may be helpful for others to consider this along with the safe advice of leaving space to move into, to consider if there is greater impact showing departure, necessitating space behind. Thanks for putting this together. It’s something I’ll bookmark and send people to view!

[@peterevans6086]

You're very welcome and thank you for your kind comment. Your suggestion re leaving space is something I hadn't considered before; I'll have to give it some thought

[@rolandrick]

This is without any doubt the best video about photography on KZbin.

[@peterevans6086]

Wow, Roland, that's quite a statement! Thank you. Thank you very much.

[@DrinkingStar]

I learned so much from this. Thanks...What I loved was how you perfectly(=clearly and concisely) explained and illustrated all the elements of composition. Again a BIG Thanks and a Huge "Thumbs Up".

[@peterevans6086]

You're very welcome. Thank you. I hope you'll find the advice beneficial next time you're out with your camera.

[@deangawler9727]

Thanks Peter, a nice set of rules to remember. I don't get too concerned about trying to use all of them at once, but I certainly take note of those that I think will benefit the subject and the environment in which I'm shooting.

[@peterevans6086]

Not so much rules, Dean, more like guidelines. And the first five are the most important ;-) I apologise for the late reply but I've been in London visiting my daughter in hospital. She's now home and recovering well. And I'm now back in France preparing for my upcoming tutoring week, starting on the 21st September.

[@Graham_Wood]

A lot to remember but I'm guessing that as I put all this excellent advice together when composing a shot, then at least some of it will become muscle memory and it won't take 30 minutes to capture the shot in the future. This is a brilliant tutorial and I thank you for it.

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you for your kind comment, Graham, and you're very welcome. Don't worry about memorising it all; I've provided a link to a crib sheet in the details below which you can print out and carry as an Aide Memoire ;-)

[@Graham_Wood]

@@peterevans6086 Thanks Peter. It looks like you are fully booked up for 2025. It's a shame that I have only just come across your channel otherwise I would have booked an advanced course as soon as the dates were available. Never mind. It will give me something to look forward in 2026.

[@chipcurry]

Very good Video, thanks for taking the time. I know most all of those but it's like a prayer that can be recited often.

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you. I hope it was helpful.

[@luisdaumas]

Excellent tutorial! Clear and pedagogical, with very nice examples and counterexamples, covering many concepts in a short time. Bravo!😊 Hope to see more material in the future.

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you !

[@kokokhanduja6981]

I make wall hangers and have had some success with selling them. People mention that I have the eye, but I did not know why. This presentation helps me understand my art form better as I have not had any formal training in photography. I learned a lot more than I thought and really like your presentation. Thoughtfully made and delivered impeccably. Thank you. Would be great to meet up some day.

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you ! Some people are lucky to be 'born with the eye'. If you're ever down this way, let me know ! I apologise for the late reply but I've been in London visiting my daughter in hospital. She's now home and recovering well. And I'm now back in France preparing for my upcoming tutoring week, starting on the 21st September.

[@ralfp9431]

First of all, I am one of your new subscribers! Why, because you are really good! About 15 years ago I studied photography and they taught us about all of this, but your way of teaching these important subjects, is far better! You should have been one of my teachers! I really enjoyed this presentation! I hope that one day I can come and have you mentor me!

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you! And as for coming here, you'll find me a painting-photography-france ;-)

[@helmutleitner5784]

You are a great teacher! Thank you for sharing your insights!

[@peterevans6086]

Goodness me! Thank you Helmut. I apologise for the late reply but I've been in London visiting my daughter in hospital. She's now home and recovering well. And I'm now back in France preparing for my upcoming tutoring week, starting on the 21st September.

[@maxbard9209]

Thank you for the gift of this video. Excellent photographer and teacher. Thank you!!!

[@peterevans6086]

You're welcome, Max. I'm pleased that you liked it. Thank you.

[@thirtyyearcosmetologist]

Great video! I’m always a student. Been studying photography for over 10 years and I am always amazed at how I have heard the same things over and over again however I am still challenged to keep sharpening my skills.

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you, Lulu; trying to meet challenges and improve our skills is what makes photography so interesting

[@vadeguay]

After watching this excellent video, I was disappointed to see that you only had one more video published. We definitely need more!

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you for the compliment, Ulrich. I made and uploaded this video purely so that I could give the link to my photography guests and have them use it as an Aide Memoire after their photography workshop here. So, frankly, I've been absolutely astonished to see how widely it's been accepted and appreciated. I now feel a responsibility to make more, so watch this space! ;-) BTW, it seems we share a love of the Blues :-)

[@vadeguay]

@@peterevans6086 Very much so! Keep it coming, cheers

[@martin9933]

Great guide to composition!! Thanks for the great work!

[@peterevans6086]

You're very welcome. I hope it proves useful to you.

[@Cliff0108]

Superb video. One of the best tutorials on composition. Thank you!

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you very much, Cliff; I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[@TheBawssThomas]

Now this is quality content. Thank you sir for sharing

[@peterevans6086]

You're welcome. Thank you for your kind comment.

[@rickhahn1223]

Wonderful instruction. I teach kids photography and will be basing some lessons on this.

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you. Helping other people improve their photography is my passion and to see that some children are going to gain something from this video means the work making it has been truly worthwhile.

[@thomasterry9465]

Wow, what a well thought out presentation! Thank you, this gives me an excellent guide to improving my photography.

[@peterevans6086]

That's kind of you to say so, Thomas; I'm glad you found it useful. Here's to your next wall-hanger! It looks like you're a fellow musician too ?

[@thomasterry9465]

@@peterevans6086 Music is a big part of my life… choral singing, an a cappella quartet, our band “the seldom heard”, daily guitar, a guitar quartet.. What about you?

[@peterevans6086]

Sorry Thomas, I've only just seen this. I play in a Blues and classic rock band here in France and sometimes join in with another similar band when invited. We are two Brits, one Irish, one American, and one French. I'm known for my 5 string Open G stuff 😜

[@thomasterry9465]

@@peterevans6086 What an international group! I sometimes play a 5 string open G banjo but I don't think that's the instrument you have in mind! I'm still appreciating your inspiring photo lecture, I'm going through 20 years accumulated digital photos, editing the ones I like and gathering them to see if I have a collection worth culling together for my friends and family. Cheers! Tom

[@merimichelle541]

You are an excellent teacher! I learned a lot and even giggled a few times, thank you!

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you Meri Michelle; I'm glad you found it useful and pleased that you caught a bit of British humour ;-)

[@Nikonover]

Great video Pete, picked up some positive things to look out for. Being one of your early students on your photography course, I can honestly say what you taught me is so benificial. Mal Collins. Australia.

[@peterevans6086]

Thanks Mal, great to hear from you! Wow, 14 years since you were here! Happy to see that your photography is still going strong. I hope you and Celia are keeping well. Best wishes to you both from Jill and me.

[@PeterSWyd]

Thank you for a very good tutorial , I have personally used many of them unconsciously , and others that are well sorted out, All in all a fine turtorial and one which has taught me where I have gone wrong. Excellent tutorial

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you, Peter. Glad it was helpful!

[@renegrosheintz-laval9146]

What an excellent, concise and clear video! Brilliant. The only thing that made me smile is when, discussing the girl sitting on the curb, disappointed by her boyfriend, you say you didn't have three objects. You do: three safety posts behind the model.

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you for your kind comment. As to the bollards behind Lise-Marie, I did see that there were three of those visible (just about) but they don't really contribute anything to the composition (in the same way as, for example, the images shown at 24:33, 24:37, and 24:48). However, I did debate with myself as to whether or not I should claim the full 15, but decided it was a bit of a stretch to do so! ;-)

[@renegrosheintz-laval9146]

@@peterevans6086 I think they help to cover up a bit of a messy background. Messy in the sense of many different angles, lines at irregular distances. So! Don’t be so British and claim your max points! 😘

[@peterevans6086]

@@renegrosheintz-laval9146 😄 😉

[@LeoDodier]

I learned so much and everything you taught makes the photos really interesting. At the end of the video you summarized elements of composition for the photo of your lovely model but you stated you did not include the rules of 3. However you actually did! You have 3 poles to the right of the model! Nice job!

[@peterevans6086]

Thanks Leo; I'm glad you found the video useful. As to the posts behind Lise-Marie, when I processed the image, I did see that there were three of those visible (just about) but they don't really contribute anything to the composition (in the same way as, for example, the images shown at 24:33, 24:37, and 24:48). However, I did debate with myself as to whether or not I should claim the full 15, but decided it was a bit of a stretch to do so! ;-)

[@raamsraa]

Great Tutorial, till now I haven't ever watched such kind of information, thanks a lot for sharing your knowledge Mr Peter, make more videos on photography and if possible on cinematography too and help people who cant afford film school . Love from my side.❤

[@peterevans6086]

Thanks. Much appreciated. I'm working on a new video at this very moment, so watch this space!

[@YO3A007]

Excellent. Worth watching again and again. THX

[@peterevans6086]

You're welcome; and thank you for the kind comment.

[@JunYamog]

This is a great video, I wanted to explain how I photograph to my daughter. This video explains it well and concisely, wish the KZbin algorithm is smart enough to get this recommended to others.

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you very much for your kind comment. I hope your daughter will become an avid photographer too :-)

[@trubbel1601]

This video is simply brilliant. I have rarely learnt so much. Thank you

[@peterevans6086]

Wow, thank you, that's great to hear! I hope you get a chance to put it into practice very soon.

[@Alex-qd4xv]

Very informative and done with a lot of patience. There is only one thing I do not appreciate very much: I came this close to throwing a lot of my pictures away after analyzing them anew :))) No, honestly: thank you very much for taking the time.

[@peterevans6086]

And thank you, Alex, for taking the time to comment. And don't worry, you're not alone in being newly critical of photographs you took in the past and once thought pretty good; it has happened to me on more than one occasion! ;-)

[@petera8742]

Superb tutorial. Great examples. A well rounded approach to composition and easy to comprehend.

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you for your kind comment, Peter. I apologise for the late reply but I've been in London visiting my daughter in hospital. She's now home and recovering well. And I'm now back in France preparing for my upcoming tutoring week, starting on the 21st September.

[@DesignfulnessByAkash]

Thank you!!! Peter ♥ This is a great class.

[@peterevans6086]

You're very welcome, Akash! Glad you liked it and I hope you find it useful..

[@DesignfulnessByAkash]

@@peterevans6086 yes!! I wanted this and I didn't know. It helped me raise my awareness. Thank you!! Will always look forward to your videos. ❤️

[@peterevans6086]

I'm working on one right now, so watch this space 👍😉

[@majidmumtaz6866]

Thank you so much for video tutorial on composition. Thank you again.

[@peterevans6086]

My pleasure! I'm glad you found it useful.

[@duydulich88]

Hello Peter. Wow...This is a super useful instructions which I am looking for my next trip. There are a lot of tutorials out there but your explanation is very easy to understand for a newbie like me. The Hook keyword is great! Thank you for sharing :)

[@peterevans6086]

No problem, Duy, you're very welcome. Good luck with your next trip; I hope you get some great wall-hangers!

[@Packyboy]

thank you Peter, I now know much more about photography than I did 31 minutes and 25 seconds ago, thank you sir for your work.👀

[@peterevans6086]

My pleasure, Paddy. I'm glad you were able to learn something from it. You look remarkably like George best, by the way ;-)

[@roblebby3765]

This is one if the best presentations I've seen on the topic of composition. Very well done! Thank you. p.s. I'm a little envious that you are in France and I'm not. Happy shooting!

[@peterevans6086]

Thank you for your kind comment. Deciding to come and live in France 21 years ago was a huge move for Jill and I, but one we're so glad we took I apologise for the late reply but I've been in London visiting my daughter in hospital. She's now home and recovering well. And I'm now back in France preparing for my upcoming tutoring week, starting on the 21st September.

[@roblebby3765]

@peterevans6086 No problem. I understand. I hope your trip and visit were good.

[@peterevans6086]

Sorry, I've only just seen this. All is good, thank you. My daughter is making an amazing recovery.

[@spagettysnaps]

What a great tutorial. As good as it is, what a shame that you only have 2 videos up. I think we want to see more!

[@peterevans6086]

Thanks. There will be more videos to come in the not too distant future.