Negative space refers to an area of a photographic image which is empty. It serves to draw attention to the positive space which is the subject itself. It could be an expanse of sky, grass or water but it could equally be the contrast between an area in tack sharp focus (the positive space) and a surrounding area in a soft blur (the negative space). Whichever method is used the end result gives an extreme contrast between the negative and the positive space.
The effect of negative space is that when the eye lands there, it finds nothing to focus on and so it is drawn into the positive space giving it added emphasis. It can therefore be a very creative tool.
I include various examples below.
There are no complicated rules to be applied to the process of incorporating negative space in photography or other art forms but it is more a case of carefully considering the image before pressing the shutter. Do you want the subject to fill the image or would the subject be enhanced by adding negative space? The process can also offer a sense of movement: a man on a bicycle with negative space in front of him, suggests ‘where’ he is moving forwards to.
Here, the dry grass adds negative space and impact.
Maybe when you next go out with your camera, capture the same image both close up and then with negative space and see which you prefer. It won’t always be the ideal composition but you will become aware of when it is a powerful approach.
The principal can be applied to other art forms as well as photography: painting, architecture and music, even dance. I was speaking with a musician who had recently composed a piece of music with a pause devoid of sound. The silence itself was a positive contribution to the work.
Don’t forget that if you want to be notified of new blog posts, all you need to do is go to my contact page and write BLOG in the message section, click send, and I will add you to my circulation list. If you are already subscribed maybe recommend the blog to a friend. Thank you for your interest and let’s see what we can learn together.