Golden ratio photography

A picture is worth a thousand words, it is often said, and in the world of photography there is one technique that embodies this adage particularly well: the golden ratio in photography. For centuries, the golden ratio has been used as a design principle in various art forms, from painting to architecture. But the golden ratio also plays an important role in photography in order to create aesthetically pleasing and balanced images.

Mathematics

The golden ratio is a mathematical ratio that results from dividing a distance into two parts, whereby the ratio of the whole to the larger part corresponds to the ratio of the larger part to the smaller part. In practice, this means that an image is divided into harmonious areas that naturally guide the viewer’s eye and create a balanced feeling.

Use of the golden ratio

To apply the golden ratio in photography, we can look at different elements of the image, such as the arrangement of lines, shapes or objects. A popular approach is to place the main subject along one of the horizontal or vertical lines of the golden ratio to achieve a balanced composition. This can mean, for example, that the main motif takes up either one third or two thirds of the picture.

Another way to use the golden ratio is to position the main subject at one of the intersections of the diagonal lines. These diagonal lines run from the corners of a rectangle created by applying the golden ratio. By placing the main motif at one of these intersections, a natural attraction is created that draws the viewer’s eye to the essentials.

Effect

Using the golden ratio in photography can help to make an image more aesthetically pleasing and create a visual balance. By deliberately composing an image with the golden ratio, the photographer can maximize the potential of the subject and direct the viewer’s attention in a targeted manner.

It is important to note that the golden ratio is not a rigid set of rules that must be strictly followed. Rather, it is a guideline that can be used as a design tool. Sometimes images can benefit from a deliberate deviation from the golden ratio to achieve a certain effect or to make the composition more interesting. Creativity and personal expression play an important role in photography, and the golden ratio is just one aspect of many that can help to enhance an image.

Digital post-processing

In the world of digital image editing, programs such as Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop offer a variety of tools and functions to optimize and refine photos. One technique that is particularly useful in these programs to improve the composition of an image is the application of the golden ratio. By specifically placing elements along the golden lines and intersections, you can achieve an aesthetically pleasing and balanced image composition.

In Photoshop: Crop tool -> in the column above: select “Golden ratio”

In Lightroom: Develop module -> Crop overlay (R) -> press (O) until the golden ratio is selected

Conclusion: Golden ratio

It is important to note that the golden ratio in image editing is a tool that helps you to achieve a balanced composition. It is not a rigid rule that you must necessarily follow. Sometimes deliberate deviations from the golden ratio can lead to interesting and unique results. The application of the golden ratio should always be in line with your creative vision and desired expression.