Negative space is the space within a photograph which is left unused. Negative space is a great way to help add emphasis to your main subject. Negative space is generally just one color (or black or white) and takes up a fairly large portion of a photograph. Using a simply background such as a clear sky or a white table are two good examples of items which could produce negative space.
However, negative space doesn't need to be a solid color. Negative space can also be a textured color with various degrees of details. For example, in the picture below the negative space is the field of wheat before the farm.
Beyond that, negative space is an important concept in photography that can help you create powerful and visually interesting images. It is the empty or “negative” space within an image and can be used to focus the viewer’s attention on the subject or to create a sense of balance and harmony. Essentially, negative space helps to provide context and can be used to create a more pleasing composition.
When composing a photo, it is important to consider how the negative space will interact with the subject. Negative space should be used in a way that enhances the subject, not distracts from it. For example, if you are photographing a person, you might want to include some negative space around them to create a sense of openness and provide a sense of atmosphere. If you are photographing an object, such as a building, you might want to use negative space to emphasize the size and grandeur of the subject.
When choosing a background for a photo, think about how the negative space will interact with the subject. Consider the size, shape, and color of the background to make sure it is not distracting from the subject. If the background is too bright or too busy, it will draw attention away from the subject. If the background is too dark or too plain, it can make the subject seem flat and uninteresting.
Negative space can also be used to create a sense of balance in a photo. When composing an image, think about how you want to divide the frame. Consider elements such as the proportions of the subject and negative space, how the two elements interact, and how each element will affect the overall composition.
Lastly, negative space can be used to create a sense of depth in an image. This can be done by including a foreground element, such as a tree or a person, that is in front of the background element. This will create a sense of depth and give the viewer a sense of being there with the subject.
Negative space can be a powerful tool for photographers. It can be used to create a sense of atmosphere, balance, and depth in an image. When composing a photo, consider how the negative space will interact with the subject and the overall composition of the image. Take the time to experiment with different backgrounds, compositions, and elements to find the best way to use negative space to enhance your photos.
Other photography pages of interest:
High and low key photography.
Using rhythm and pattern in photography.
Golden ratio.
Other photography resources:
More photography resources
Photography Glossary.