Abstract
An image that emphasizes formal elements rather than specific, recognizable objects.
Angle
The vantage point from which the photograph was taken; generally used when discussing a photograph taken from an unusual or exaggerated vantage point.
Balance
The distribution of visual elements in a photograph. Symmetrical balance distributes visual elements evenly in an image. Asymmetrical balance is found when visual elements are not evenly distributed in an image.
Center of Interest
The objects which appears most prominently and/or most clearly focused in a photograph.
Composition
The arrangement or structure of the formal elements that make up an image.
Content
The subject, topic or information captured in a photograph.
Contrast
The difference in darkness or density between one tone and another. Strong visual differences between light and dark
Depth of Field
The range of allowable focusing error which will still produce an acceptable sharp image.
Diffused Light
A light source that comes from a scattered light source as from a cloudy sky, or light bulb under a lamp shade.
Exposure
The intensity of light multiplied by the length of time it falls on a light-sensitive material; specifically, the combination of shutter speed and aperture.
Eye Movement
How the viewer's eye moves around within the frame of the photograph.
Focus
The areas that appear clearest or sharpest in the photograph.
Framing
What the photographer has placed within the boundaries of the photograph.
Geometric shape
Simple rectilinear or curvilinear shapes found in geometry
Light Source
Direction and quality of light illuminating the photographed scene.
Organic Shape
Shape based on natural objects such as trees, mountains, leaves,
Point of View
The place from which a photographer takes a photograph.
Repetition
Lines or shapes occurring over and over that create a pattern.
Shape
Something distinguished from its surroundings by its outline.
Specular (light)
Direct light as from the sun or a bare light bulb. Specular light sources create hard lined shadows.
Subject
The main object or person(s) in a photograph.
Texture
How a surface feels visually.
Tone
Shade of color or greys.
Value
The range of tones from dark to light.
Shadow
The rough image cast by an object blocking rays of illumination.
Space
Depth/ Horizontal/ Vertical
Foreground, Middle Ground,
Background
Positive Space/ Negative Space
Juxtaposition of Size
Other Words for "Good
Resolved
Successful
Area of Strength
Element that Works Well
Intentional
Significant
Area of Interest
Draws our Attention
Comes together
Other Words for "Bad
Unresolved
Area that Struggles
Doesn't work well
Poses an Issue
Unintentional
Confusing
Needs Attention
Needs consideration
Out of place
Other Art terms
Audience,
Focal Point
Subject matter. Main Subject
In Focus/ Out of Focus/ Clear
Cropping
Evocative, Meaningful
Personal
Abstract vs Concrete
Symbolic/ Metaphorical
Formal/ Contrived/ Staged
Informal/ Spontaneous/ Natural/ Flowing