My Neighborhood – Composition Theme: Symmetry and Balance

Definitions

• Symmetry – Symmetry is when something looks the same on both sides or has a balanced arrangement.
• Balance – Balance in photography refers to arranging elements within a photo in a way that creates a sense of visual equilibrium and harmony. It involves distributing visual weight evenly and considering how different elements interact to create a pleasing composition.

Challenge 1: Symmetry Hunt in My Neighborhood

   

Instructions:

Create images that demonstrate symmetry. The following are suggestions to get you started.

1. Buildings: Look for architectural features like windows, doors, or facades that exhibit symmetrical designs.
2. Bridges: Capture the symmetrical structure of a bridge, with its arches, railings, or supports.
3. Trees: Focus on trees with branches that spread out symmetrically on either side, creating a balanced canopy.
4. Gardens: Look for flower beds or hedges that are arranged symmetrically, with similar plants or shapes on each side.
5. Fences: Find fences with symmetrical patterns or pickets, creating a visually pleasing repetition.
6. Reflections: Seek out puddles or bodies of water that create mirrored reflections, doubling the symmetry of the scene.
7. Staircases: Photograph staircases that have a symmetrical layout, such as those with equal steps or banisters on both sides.
8. Streetlights: Capture the symmetry of streetlights lining the road, especially when they have matching designs or spacing.
9. Patterns on the Ground: Look for symmetrical patterns, like tiles, bricks, or pavement, that repeat and create a sense of balance.
10. Public Art: Explore sculptures or installations in your neighborhood that exhibit symmetrical shapes or patterns.

Challenge 2: Find things with both symmetry and balance

 

Instructions:

Create images that demonstrate symmetry and balance. The following are suggestions to get you started.

1. Gardens or Flowerbeds: Look for flower arrangements or garden designs that have symmetrical patterns and a sense of balance in the distribution of plants and colors.
2. Parks or Playgrounds: Capture symmetrical elements in playground equipment, such as swings, slides, or seesaws, that are evenly balanced on either side.
3. Bridges: Photograph bridges that display symmetrical arches or support structures, conveying a sense of balance in their design.
4. Fountains: Seek out fountains with symmetrical water jets or sculptures that are symmetrically arranged, creating a harmonious visual balance.
5. Architectural Structures: Capture buildings or structures with balanced and symmetrical facades, featuring identical elements on both sides.
6. Pathways: Photograph walkways or paths that lead through your neighborhood and exhibit symmetrical designs or patterns, such as evenly spaced tiles or bricks.
7. Reflections: Look for reflective surfaces, like ponds or lakes, that showcase symmetrical reflections and create a balanced composition.
8. Staircases: Seek out staircases with a balanced and symmetrical layout, with equal steps, handrails, or matching patterns on both sides.
9. Statues or Sculptures: Explore sculptures or statues that are symmetrically designed, with equal proportions and elements on each side.
10. Trees: Capture trees with branches that extend symmetrically on either side, creating a sense of balance and visual harmony.

Remember to have fun and be creative with your photography challenge! Upload your images to the Facebook group or email them to me at sheila@sheila-joy.com