Photography is a creative art form which is used to record and interpret the world. It is a visual language that can be reproduced and shared over the Internet. There are many types of photography and the technique has developed to suit the needs of the contemporary world.

One of the basic principles of good photography is composition. Composition means the arrangement of elements in the frame. Some photographers will pose their subjects, while others will capture candid moments. This is a matter of choice and can be controlled in post-production.

Colour can have a significant effect on the tone of a photograph. Cool colours include blues, greens, violets, and yellows. Warm colours include oranges and reds. The mood and emotional impact of a photograph are also greatly affected by the colour of the image.

Lines can also be a part of a photograph’s composition. For example, a line leading the eye to the centre of an image can help to direct the viewer’s attention. A line may also express many different emotions.

Patterns are a common element in photographs. These can be used as decoration or as the basis for a series of images. They serve as a unifying feature and can explain why a photo was taken.

Texture can also add to a picture’s interest. While texture can be used to convey depth, too much texture in the image can distract from its message. Photographers wait for light to hit a subject and highlight its textures. However, too little light can cause a photo to look underexposed.