Balance and Tension
BackgroundBalance is a sense that elements are equally weighted across the field of view. One can think of different areas of the image as having a weight and balance is achieved when there is equal weight on both sides of the image.
Balance can be achieved by following rules (e.g. the rule of 3rds) but there is no recipe for good composition. Balance can also be achieved with tone. Balance does not necessarily suggest that the balancing elements are identical. For instance, light areas can balance dark areas - think of those as equally weighted objects. An important consideration is that people in a scene carry a significant weight over other elements. ResourcesHere are additional information on this topic:
Balance Examples |
PurposeBalance tends to be pleasing and easy on the eyes. While an imbalance makes one feel uncomfortable, off balance or challenged.
Balance vs tensionPerfect balance is good for traditional work and generally designers strive for balance because it creates a pleasing effect. However, if you want to raise concerns or activate cognitive dissonance then the right dose of imbalance might be just the ticket to visually cue the reader that the message is edgy, controversial or requires a critical eye. However, use imbalance with caution and make sure it is purposeful, otherwise it might come across all wrong. Breaking the rules has high risk but also the possibility of high rewards.
Even this page that you are viewing now, is not perfectly divided down the middle. This adds just a bit of imbalance and interest to an otherwise stale layout. Further StudyExplore the following sections to understand symmetrical and asymmetrical balance:
Symmetrical Balance
ASYMMETRical Balance
|