Formal elements in photography refer to the visual factors that create a photograph’s structure and aesthetic to us. Understanding these elements helps photographers compose and evaluate their work. The elements it includes are the most basic and fundamental factors in photography. However, it is one of the most important factors we should realize that affects the photo. These are some brief definitions of the six examples of formal elements that we are focusing on:

1. Line

Lines are paths that lead the viewer’s eye in a photo. They can be straight, curved, or diagonal and help create structure and movement.

2. Shape

Shapes are flat forms made by lines or objects. They can be geometric (like squares and circles) or organic (irregular) and add interest to the composition.

3. Pattern

Patterns are repeated designs in a photo. They create rhythm and can draw attention to certain parts of the image.

4. Texture

Texture refers to how a surface looks in a photo. It can feel rough, smooth, or detailed, and it is affected by light and focus.

5. Tone

Tone describes how light or dark a color is in a photo. It affects the mood and depth of the image.

6. Focus

Focus is about how clear or sharp an image is. It shows which parts are clear and which are blurred, helping to highlight important details.

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The Starry Night by Vincent van Gogh (1889)

In “The Starry Night,” Vincent van Gogh uses important elements to create an eye-catching scene. The swirling lines in the sky show movement, while the tall tree and flat hills attracts our eyes. The painting features round shapes, like the stars, and angular shapes, like the buildings. A pattern of stars and the moon adds harmony. How Van Gogh paints the art piece gives its texture, especially in the lively sky, and the mix of dark blues and bright yellows creates drama. The focus is on the sky, highlighting the swirling stars and letting the quiet village below blend in, which adds a sense of wonder.

Team, Artistro. “30 Most Famous Paintings in History: The Best Art of All Time.” Artistro, 13 May 2021, https://artistro.com/blogs/news/30-most-famous-artworks-in-history-the-greatest-art-of-all-time. Accessed 5 Feb. 2025.