There are many ways to add elegance and interest to images through the creative use of composition but, to my mind, one of the most effective is through symmetry and repetition. There’s something that the human brain likes about seeing a reflection or pattern in things.
I took these shots at a wedding in Ezcaray, La Rioja, in July and, looking over them again in recent days, was struck by how many of my favourite photos gained poise and balance through symmetry. I like the photo above of Cristina because of the beautiful light and also how it conveys the notion of a bride standing in the doorway of the family home about to step into a new chapter of life.
But it’s her refection in the mirror as she looks back over her shoulder which finishes the picture and adds a something a bit special.
Both in that picture and the first one below, it’s a doorframe which helps separate the different parts of the image. In the second photo the symmetry comes from the fact that Cristina’s mother and sister are both bent over in a similar way as they get ready before the ceremony. You can work out for yourself the symmetry in the third image!
You don’t want to overplay the symmetry card – it would destroy the element of surprise – but a few choice images help add panache and humour to a wedding album.
