Positive space in photography is normally considered the main subject of an image. It shows most of the beauty of an image. It helps to represent all the key areas in an artwork with subjects. And automatically attracts the attention of the viewers.
What is Positive Space?
Positive space narrates the major parts of an image that play the most visual interest. It conveys the image’s message and keeps the viewer’s attention on the particular part. In nature, these can be a person, an object, or even a detail in the scene. For instance, in portrait photography, the subject’s face is considered a positive space. In landscape photography, it can be a big mountain or a tree. Photographers choose the products or any jewelry as a positive space while photographing real estate. In that case, they have to think about the best lens for real estate photography too. You may read more photography tips
Importance of Positive Space
It is only possible to capture an image with a subject. So, there is no underestimation of the importance of positive space in photography. It will help you in many factors, such as :
- Attracts Attention: Positive space will attract the viewer’s attention towards the main subject. It is important to highlight the main features or any particular part of the image.
- Creates Emphasis: It works to help focus the viewer’s attention on the important factors within the image.
- Improves Visual Appeal: Appropriate use of positive space improves the visualization of an image. For that, you need to adjust the positive space smoothly with the negative.
- Conveys Meaning Rightway: Positive space conveys the meaning of an image. It perfectly directs the attention of the viewer to the major elements that tell a story or give a message.
For example, You want to highlight multiple features of a product. So, The product is your positive space. It needs to be set in a negative space that is the background that matches the product. Now with the help of the negative space, features of the positive spaces will be highlighted. And it will convey the message, and benefits of the products to the viewers.
Positive Space vs Negative Space
While positive space refers to the main subjects, negative space refers to areas around and between them. Quite often, the negative space forms the background which frames the subject and contrasts with the positive space.
- Positive Space: Focuses on the principal subjects in a photo. Provides information without describing it in text.
- Negative Space: Gives breath, and the positive space is so much enhanced by contrast with the negative space. A right negative space is important to display the positive one.
- Relationship of two Spaces: Positive space in photography with negative space works collaboratively. And compose a balanced, visually interesting photograph. One right negative space is important to visualize the positive one.
Techniques for Using Positive Space in Photography Effectively
Artist have some techniques in applying positive space, to make their photographs outstanding. With simple tricks, you can also utilize the Positive space perfectly. Here are a few ways to apply it for creative photography:
- Framing: Framing is the critical factor to consider. Set your main subject in the scene that complements your subject. And provide clear details. That will help you to get a proper shot in a short time.
- Depth of Field: Use a shallow depth of field to blur the background. It will keep the focus on the subject. This technique is more useful for doing portrait photography.
- Leading Lines: Use lines that tend to guide the viewer’s eye toward positive space. Also, highlight them so that they are easily readable.
- Contrast between two Spaces: Ensure there is a contrast between the positive and negative spaces to present the subject better. Be careful about the edges of the subjects. Make sure it is separated from the background and still has a smooth connection with the background.
- Color Sense: While selecting the negative space to highlight the positive space carefully balance the color contrast. If you have a bold bright color subject select a light color background. And for a light subject apply a bold background. Blend and adjust them properly later for perfection.
Practical Applications of Positive Space in Photography
1. Portrait Photography
Properly using positive space to place the subject can show emotions, expressions, and details. And it will make the photo stronger. Take Close-up shots and focus on the face to capture expressions and details. For environmental portrait shots focus on incorporating elements of the surroundings. It will add context to the subject’s story without overpowering them.
2. Landscape Photography
It’s a type of photography that captures the vast scenery of nature. Whereby the positive space could contain anything from a mountain, tree, building, etc. As with portraiture, you can bring a sense of dynamism into your landscape work. For doing it manipulate the balance between positive and negative space within the composition. Here professionals utilize Image Manipulation Services to highlight the main subjects.
Use foreground objects to provide depth and interest. Natural frames like trees, arches, and similar natural elements will help frame your positive space for the viewer.
3. Still Life Photography
In still-life photography, photographers place the positive space in such a way that helps to create a pleasing image. They utilize artificial light to highlight the details of the positive space. Often they create drop shadows to emphasize the subject. And, normally do some arrangement in the negative spaces to spotlight the meaning of the positive space.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
If you want to display the positive space in the right way you have to be aware of some common mistakes. One simple mistake can ruin the overall outlook of a photo. Here are some common mistakes you should avoid while doing photography.
- Overcrowding: Avoid too many crowded areas. Select a background with fewer things to place your subject. Placing many elements in the positive space will produce a confusing image. Keep it simple to get standard results.
- Ignoring Negative Space: If you ignore the negative space, this may cause an unbalanced contrast between two spaces. Try to know what is positive and negative space art and utilize the negative space properly. Never use too much stuff to decorate your background.
- Poor Composition: Make sure to compose the positive space well. This will be attractive to viewers. Give some moments for your camera and lens to become ready before capturing. Be careful about the weather conditions too. Select the golden time or blue time for outdoor photography. It will provide you best natural glowy light for standard composition. Capture the proper details of each part of your subject. So that it will be stable even after editing it.
In the end, the good use of positive space will result in a striking and balanced picture. In your work with portraits, landscapes, or still life, thoughtful use of positive space will push your photography to a powerful level. Further to enhance the overall quality of the images apply other services. Like Image Shadow Creation Services offered by professionals. Don’t forget to experiment continuously to become skilled in using the space correctly.
