Lens-Artists Challenge – Symmetry

This week’s challenge may look at first a hard one but, in reality, symmetry is everywhere. It’s also not as static a concept as it may seem. Why is symmetry important as a composition tool in photography? It creates strong and balanced images, affecting the way we feel the subject. Our eyes find symmetry harmonious and pleasing.

I’ll start with one of my favourite photos taken in a historical property, the Ajuda National Palace, in Lisbon. The leading lines are very strong and there’s a clear split vertically, one side mirroring the other. It’s a balanced photo that gives a sense of the space.

---

Horizontal symmetries are quite easy to find in nature, especially with water reflections. The following photo shows the reflection of the edge of a river in Portugal. The stillness of the water allowed a clear symmetry shown, emphasized by the centred position of the symmetry axis.

---

Reflective symmetries aren’t dependant on bodies of water and can work in a different way from horizontal symmetries. Mirrors are obvious allies in creating interesting and sometimes mindboggling examples. The following photo makes the most of mirrored surfaces at the Gulbenkian Museum in Lisbon. Can you tell how many vases are they on the display?

---

I’m usually more attracted to vertical symmetries, where I have no fear of filling the frame completely. It feels dynamic and it works wonderfully for architecture. This photo taken at the Alcazar in Seville is powerful because of its orientation, portrait, and its strong, warm colours. The mirrored reflections on the windows add an extra interest to this image.

---

The next photo shows a dimly lit entrance at the Monserrate Palace in Sintra, Portugal. The symmetry is there by design and the shadows and light only increase that effect. A well-timed photo that I’m very happy with.

---

One more vertical symmetry with the introduction of a bit of the radial type. The escalator at the Umeda Sky Building in Osaka is a true nightmare for anyone suffering from vertigo, me included. The leading lines on the steps direct our eyes to the centre as does the ripple effect of the top of the tunnel.

---

With radial symmetry, the elements have one point of origin, radiating outwards. Umbrellas are obvious subjects for radial symmetry and offer so many possibilities. These two photos of Japanese parasols have different approaches, reminding that you can still follow the rule of thirds and have an interesting symmetry photo.

---

Nature, as a great inspirer, is a wonderful place to start looking for symmetries. Radial, vertical and horizontal are everywhere, in flowers and succulents, in leaves and in insects.

---

So, this week we’re looking at symmetry in photography as an important tool to compose strong and appealing photos. Symmetries don’t necessarily need to be perfect either, with both sides exactly the same. The perception of balance and harmony, where the image works with symmetries as a whole is what we’re looking for. For this challenge you can also look for symmetrical subjects. Which type of symmetry do you think works best? I’m excited to see what you come up with.

Last week, John’s challenge gave us a chance to share billboard and signs from around the world and I have to say I’ve never had so many smiles and laughs in the morning before going to work as I did while checking your posts. So, an enormous thank you to you all. Next week, Donna is hosting. If we were thinking about symmetries this week, next week we’ll be looking at Asymmetry. Have a look at Donna’s site and be inspired. Until then, take care.

If you want more information on the Lens-Artists Challenge, please click here.