So, to create an eye catching image, the most important part is to make sure we have dynamic elements inside the scene, which is we need a diagonal form to achieve it. The combination of two (or more) diagonals lines will create another edgy form like triangle or trapezoid.
Dynamic composition itself in photography means an image with uneven/unsettling form. The opposite of static form (a linear line).
Diagonal itself means (based on quick search on wikipedia): A line segment joining two vertices of a polygon or polyhedron, when those vertices are not on the same edge.
The easiest way to notice dynamic composition (either in photography or other things) is look at diagonal line. That is why we can see many house/cafe//building decorations in form of triangle or diagonal line. Here are some tips to use diagonal composition in street photography:
Diagonal line
Diagonal line is the most simple way (could be the best way either) to create photograph with strong presence for audience’s visual. What we need to do is pay more attention to anything that has diagonal form, and think how to put subject inside our frame.
Most common things that have diagonal line: Escalator, stairs, house roof, wall painting, etc. Try to combine diagonal line with other artistic form like silhouette or shadow, and do not forget to minimize distraction (read here) as much as possible so viewers easily look at the diagonal line inside photo.
Diagonal angle of view
Try to photograph a person or an object with diagonal angle. Do not just take a photo straight from in front of person’s face, because usually it will create a photograph with less excitement. Use “weird” angle like shooting from extreme low or high angle. Play with any objects that has relation with main subject so they can add extra story line to our photos.
The other way is to move our camera to the to the side of subject. This technique is useful when we do street portrait with stranger (with or without permission). Not only shoot from low or high angle, but also move our camera to the right or left position (diagonally from subject’s face). Let the subject tilt their head a little. Simple tips: Try to photograph a person with only one ear revealed.
Gesture
Dynamic gesture is all about “movement” effect from subject’s pose. Try to freeze the moment when subject is in the middle of action. Pay more attention to fingers, hands, legs and head movement.
The triangle form created by a person’s legs while they are walking is always what we want to capture to create dynamic image. Audience easily see the “movement” effect in our photos. Same for other dynamic gestures from moving fingers or hands, freeze the moment when they pose a diagonal/triangle form.
And if we want to create even a stronger effect, try to combine for a place with diagonal lines, and capture dynamic people’s gesture inside our frame.
Leading line
Leading line is useful to draw viewer’s eyes to a specific area inside our image. It could be our main subject or a vanishing point. Try to create leading line in diagonal angle as it will create a stronger visual effect.
Like in the photo above, I put main subject at the front side, then use leading line to vanishing point as background. Diagonal leading line will add strong depth effect into our photos, make images more 3D pop out (not flat).
That is all for my tips for diagonal line in street photography.
Happy hunting street photo with dynamic composition out there, use any diagonal lines as creative as possible 🙂
Keep shooting and stay inspired,
Nico Harold