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Composition Basics

Contrast and Emphasis in Composition

Contrast and Emphasis in Composition

In composition, contrast refers to the differences between elements in a composition. This includes differences in color, value, size, and shape. Contrast is important because it helps create visual interest and can draw the viewer's attention to specific areas of the composition.

Emphasis, on the other hand, refers to the importance or dominance of certain elements in a composition. Emphasis can be achieved through the use of contrast, but can also be created through the use of other techniques such as repetition, isolation, and placement.

Creating Contrast

One way to create contrast in a composition is through the use of complementary colors. Complementary colors are colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel, such as red and green or blue and orange. When used together, complementary colors create a strong contrast that can be visually striking. Another way to create contrast is through the use of value. Value refers to the lightness or darkness of a color. By placing light values next to dark values, or vice versa, you can create contrast and draw the viewer's eye to specific areas of the composition.

Creating Emphasis

Emphasis can be created through the use of isolation, which involves placing an element in a composition on its own to draw attention to it. Repetition is another technique that can be used to create emphasis. By repeating an element, such as a shape or color, throughout a composition, you can create a sense of unity and draw attention to that element. Placement is also important in creating emphasis. By placing an element in a prominent position in the composition, such as at the center or top of the composition, you can create emphasis and draw the viewer's eye to that element.

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