In photography, in order to be a stunning photo that people will just enjoy, because of it’s artistic nature, you need to have these elements in the photograph:

There is not any order to these, just that when you take a photograph, look for one of these elements to make it more outstanding:

1- Shape

Shape is so important to have. If you have a Zebra out in the distance in your photo, then it is no good. You have to be able to recognize your subject, and see it well.

2- Lines

This is one of the strongest elements and plays a big part in a lot of well composed photos. Learning how to use lines in your photos, will be the key to successful photos. Once you learn about lines, you will want to try to use them in a lot of your photos.

3- Form or Depth

Now shape is two dimensional but when we get to form we add a third dimension, depth. Form is very dependent on light. How the light hits the form creates the feeling of depth which is essential in a stunning image. Squares, circles and triangles reveal their form when strong side lighting hits them. The contrast between shadows and light turns shape into form.

Side lighting can even make portraits seem outstanding.

Side lighting will often make a portrait even more dramatic. It creates a mood, rather than just do a photo or portrait.

Side lighting can make or break even scenery photos. You would have to get up early or take them just before sundown to get these kind of amazing photos.

4- Pattern

Sometimes in photography, you can find a pattern that seems to make the photo outstanding. Sometimes the patterns are hard to find, but, it does make the photos exciting. Patterns can be used as a background or the subject. Patterns are all around, and when you find them, take the shot.

The simple things in a flower will bring a pattern that people will really like as well:

5- Color

Use color to your advantage as well. Color is the most striking of the elements when used correctly. Contrasting and complementary colors will create an amazing image but used incorrectly will wash out an otherwise great photo. Color evokes deep emotion. We think in color and feel in color and use color to describe those feelings.

6- Texture

Out of all the elements I think that texture evokes the biggest emotional response by a viewer. The challenge here is to photograph it in such a way that the light causes the texture to reveal itself in a way as to create a feeling. Side lighting is important as it lifts the texture out of the image so as to almost create the actual texture for you to feel. More than any other element, it is important to get in close so that the fibers, cracks, or rough stone are clearly visible.

Conclusion

6 things that help you create a photo that will be outstanding. It’s a good thing we only have 6 steps to remember. There’s enough now to remember in creating an amazing photo. Good luck as you incorporate these elements into your photos.