How do you emphasize and prioritize your main subject using visual hierarchy?

2 Use color and contrast

Another way to create visual hierarchy is to use color and contrast to make your main subject stand out from the background or the surroundings. You can use a complementary color, a bright color, or a high contrast color to create a focal point that attracts attention. You can also use a low contrast or a monochromatic color scheme to make the other elements fade into the background or blend together. For example, if you want to emphasize a flower in a field, you can use a color that contrasts with the green grass, such as red, yellow, or purple.

3 Use shape and form

You can also use shape and form to create visual hierarchy and prioritize your main subject. You can use a distinctive or unusual shape or form to make your subject more noticeable and interesting. You can also use a simple or regular shape or form to make your subject more clear and recognizable. You can also use repetition or pattern to create rhythm and harmony among the elements, or use variation or disruption to create tension and contrast. For example, if you want to emphasize a building in a cityscape, you can use a shape that differs from the others, such as a circular or triangular shape.

4 Use depth and perspective

Another technique to create visual hierarchy is to use depth and perspective to create a sense of space and dimension in your image. You can use a wide-angle lens, a high angle, or a leading line to create depth and perspective that makes your image more dynamic and realistic. You can also use a shallow depth of field, a blur effect, or a framing device to isolate your main subject from the rest of the image and create a sense of intimacy and focus. For example, if you want to emphasize a bird in a tree, you can use a shallow depth of field to blur the background or use a branch to frame the bird.

5 Use lighting and exposure

The last way to create visual hierarchy is to use lighting and exposure to create a mood and a tone in your image. You can use a directional light, a spotlight, or a flash to create a highlight or a shadow that makes your main subject more visible and dramatic. You can also use a soft light, a diffuse light, or a natural light to create a smooth or a warm effect that makes your main subject more appealing and inviting. You can also use a high-key or a low-key exposure to create a bright or a dark image that conveys a different emotion and atmosphere. For example, if you want to emphasize a face in a portrait, you can use a soft light to create a flattering effect or a low-key exposure to create a mysterious effect.

Visual hierarchy is an essential tool for photographers who want to create images that have a clear message and a strong impact. By using these five techniques, you can emphasize and prioritize your main subject and make your images more engaging and memorable.