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Diagonal Leading Lines in Photography

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Of all the lines used in photography, diagonals are the most dynamic. You can use them to create a strong impression of movement or you can use them to create a tremendous sense of depth. All images are created with lines—some vertical, horizontal and others converging—but knowing how to place them affects the mood and composition of the final image.

A sense of order is created with vertical and horizontal lines, implying stability and strength. Diagonals are unbalanced and appear to be unstable. What they communicate is dynamic, yet precarious. They always appear to be falling over or not quite secure. This is what lends itself to a dramatic image.

The easiest way to create diagonals is simply by tilting your camera. Slanted views of horizontals and verticals and can easily be created by the photographer. I find that a bit of tilt to my camera adds a little slant to the image and creates a perfect diagonal line.

Try capturing a simple image like a car or skyscraper by tilting the camera forty five degrees and see the effect you create. What happens to the image? The car looks as if it is going fast while skyscraper appears to be reaching for the sky. This effect is created simply by simply turning your camera

When shooting from high up from a bird’s eye view, you can really create some stunning images. Look for lines then tilt the camera. The bird’s eye vantage allows you great leeway, as there is no right way, no up or down; everything is two dimensional. Experiment with patterns and color, and you will arrive at some dramatic compositions.

Don’t be afraid to use crazy angles and change your viewpoint when shooting with diagonals. They will help give you a sense of depth and perspective. They tend to lead the eye to whatever focal point you decide, to a place where they end or disappear into nothing. Diagonals encourage the eye of the viewer to follow, almost like the Judas goat at the abattoir that leads the livestock to the slaughter. A set of footprints, a curved hedge, or river can be used to guide the viewers to the point of focus. But you must lead them to something that has a strong interest otherwise the viewer is left feeling that the image is incomplete.

Then there is the zigzag effect when using diagonals in patterns. The repeated pattern can also be used to drag the eye into the image over a larger area of the frame. These patterns are dynamic and, when used with horizontals and verticals, become even more dramatic.


I have always chosen diagonals as my favorite lines because they are so dynamic and add something to my images. Bottom line though, as you learn digital photography, you need to experiment and practice what you learn in order to master it. Happy shooting!

About the Author:
Wayne Turner has been teaching photography for 25 years and has written three books on photography. He has produced 21 Steps to Perfect Photos; a program of learner-based training using outcomes based education.

You don’t need a time machine if you have a camera.

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Capturing Moments: The Power of a Camera in Preserving Time

Introduction: In an era dominated by advanced technology, it is astonishing how a simple camera can transcend its primary purpose as a tool for documentation and become a gateway to time travel. With its ability to capture fleeting moments and preserve them for eternity, a camera holds the power to transport us back to cherished memories, allowing us to relive them whenever we desire. In this blog, we explore the profound impact of a camera as a time machine, not requiring us to physically travel through time but instead enabling us to revisit the past through the lens of nostalgia.


  1. The Essence of Photography: Photography has always been closely linked to the idea of freezing a moment in time. Since the earliest cameras were invented, people have sought to capture significant events, beautiful landscapes, and precious personal experiences. A photograph captures not only the visual details but also the emotions and atmosphere, offering a glimpse into a specific time and place.
  2. Time-Traveling through Memories: A camera acts as a portal to revisit memories. As we flip through old photo albums or scroll through digital galleries, we can transport ourselves back to a different time, evoking a flood of emotions. Whether it’s the laughter shared with loved ones, the joy of a milestone achievement, or the beauty of a breathtaking sunset, each image carries the power to revive the past.
  3. Preserving Milestones: From birth to graduation, weddings to family reunions, a camera preserves our significant milestones, capturing the essence of those life-changing moments. Looking back at these images allows us to appreciate how much we have grown, how our relationships have evolved, and how our achievements have shaped us. It serves as a reminder of our journey, providing a sense of continuity amidst the ever-changing nature of life.
  4. Immortalizing Loved Ones: As time passes, we often experience the loss of dear ones. However, through the lens of a camera, we can immortalize their presence, preserving their smiles, laughter, and the love they shared. Photographs become treasured relics, enabling us to keep their memory alive and share stories about them with future generations.
  5. Cultural Heritage and Historical Events: Beyond personal memories, cameras have played a crucial role in documenting historical events and cultural heritage. Photographs have become visual accounts of significant moments in history, providing valuable insights into the past. From iconic images that define eras to intimate snapshots that offer a glimpse into everyday life, these photographs help us understand and appreciate our shared heritage.
  6. The Power of Perspective: A camera not only freezes time but also offers unique perspectives on the world around us. Through the lens, we can capture the beauty in the mundane, discover hidden details, and explore new angles. By taking photographs, we become more mindful observers, appreciating the intricacies of life that often go unnoticed.

Conclusion:

In a world fascinated with time travel, we often overlook the power of a simple camera to transport us to different periods of our own lives. By capturing fleeting moments and preserving them for posterity, a camera allows us to relive memories, celebrate milestones, and honor our cultural heritage. It serves as a tangible time machine, offering us the ability to navigate through time without leaving our present. As we continue to embrace technology, let us not forget the profound impact of a camera—a device that transcends its physical form to become a conduit between the past, present, and future.