DYNAMIC SYMMETRY

Good for street photography and scenes where you want to convey action.

Dynamic Symmetry is a compositional framework that uses a grid of diagonal, reciprocal, horizontal, and vertical lines to create flow, rhythm, and balance in a photo. Derived from mathematical ratios like the Golden Ratio, this grid helps photographers arrange elements to guide the viewer’s eye dynamically through the composition. Diagonal and reciprocal lines emphasize motion and action, while horizontal and vertical lines introduce calm and balance, making the technique versatile for both dynamic and tranquil scenes. Line up the main subject and supporting elements to the diagonals or parallel lines.

What it's good for

Dynamic Symmetry is ideal for creating balanced yet dynamic compositions, particularly in complex scenes with multiple elements. It helps emphasize movement and flow by aligning subjects along the diagonal lines, while supporting elements on horizontal and vertical lines provide areas of rest. This technique is particularly well-suited to street photography, where it highlights interesting subjects and interactions while maintaining visual harmony. It’s also effective for storytelling in busy or layered scenes.

When to use it

This technique is best used in scenes where there are multiple elements to organize, such as groups of people in street photography, landscapes, or complex architectural shots. Use Dynamic Symmetry to lead the viewer’s eye across the frame with motion and rhythm, or to balance activity with areas of calm. It is particularly effective when capturing action or interaction, making it a go-to choice for storytelling and visually rich compositions.

Step to apply the artistic composition

Identify the Scene's Main Subject: Look for a group of objects or subjects that can align with the diagonal or reciprocal lines of the grid.
Align with Diagonal Lines: Position the main subject or key elements along the diagonal and reciprocal lines to convey flow and rhythm.
Find Supporting Elements: Arrange complementary objects along the horizontal and vertical lines to add balance and structure.
Use Horizontal and Vertical Lines: Incorporate elements along these lines to provide areas of calm and rest within the composition.
Layer the Grid: Start with the two corner-to-corner diagonals and gradually add the reciprocal, horizontal, and vertical lines to refine the composition.
Balance the Frame: Ensure that the motion created by the diagonals is balanced by the stability of the horizontal and vertical elements.
Refine the Flow: Adjust the alignment of elements to guide the viewer’s eye naturally through the scene, creating a harmonious rhythm and balance.

NOTE: Dynamic Symmetry and Harmonic Armature are both grid-based compositional frameworks, but they differ in structure and focus. Dynamic Symmetry emphasizes energy and movement by using diagonal and reciprocal lines derived from mathematical ratios like the Golden Ratio, making it ideal for capturing dynamic and action-driven scenes such as street photography and landscapes. In contrast, Harmonic Armature focuses on balance and proportional relationships by incorporating intersecting diagonal, horizontal, and vertical lines, which makes it better suited for creating structured and harmonious compositions in still life, portraits, and architecture. While Dynamic Symmetry prioritizes motion and flow, Harmonic Armature offers subtle rhythm and order, catering to distinct creative intents.