What are Leading Lines?
Leading lines are a composition technique used to draw the viewers attention in a particular direction. They are used to lead the viewer’s eyes to the main subject of your photograph.
Using leading lines will make your photographs more engaging. They give the illusion of depth and dimension, and add visual impact to your images.
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Where Do You Find Them?
Leading lines are everywhere. Once you start looking for them, you’ll begin to notice them more frequently.
Here are some places to look for them.
- Rivers
- Window Panes
- Fences
- Doorways
- Bridges
- Roads
- Paths
- Railroad Tracks
- Piers
- Trees
- Cliffs
- Doorways
- Hallways
What Types Are There?
There are actually several different types. They can evoke a mood, or even influence the way a viewer feels when looking at an image.
- Horizontal lines draw the viewer’s attention across the image. They are generally used in nature, and can evoke a sense of peacefulness.
- Vertical lines tend to convey power, strength and can add tension to the scene. Trees and skyscrapers make good subjects for using vertical lines.
- Diagonal lines create a sense of change, motion, or direction and make an image less static feeling.
- Curved lines are usually found in nature, such as rivers. They can be used to add a sense of mystery and adventure.
- Converging lines are two or more lines that get closer, and closer towards the end. Use them to provide depth to your photograph, and to create a sense of distance or scale. Railroad tracks are an example of converging lines.
Tell A Story
Leading lines are a great way to tell a story with your images. The lines guide the viewer through the scene of the photograph, leading them to discover something, or somewhere as they follow the movement of the lines. What will it be?
Conclusion
Using leading lines in your images is a powerful composition technique. By mastering it, you are able to guide viewers though a photograph, and influence the way they feel about it.
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