1. Line: Lines guide your eye through the photo. They can be straight (like a road), curved (like a river), or diagonal (like a leaning tree).

  2. Shape: This is the 2D outline of an object. A shadow or a silhouette is a pure shape.

  3. Form: This is a 3D shape. Photographers use light and shadow to make a flat object look like it has volume and you could touch it.

  4. Pattern: The repetition of elements like lines, shapes, or colors. It creates rhythm.

  5. Texture: This is about how a surface looks like it would feel. Is it rough like sandpaper? Smooth like glass? Sharp like thorns?

  6. Tone: This refers to the range of light and dark in a photo, from pure white to pure black. It creates mood and drama.

  7. Focus: This is what parts of the image are sharp and clear vs. blurry and soft. It tells the viewer exactly where to look.