← Encyclopedia Skill

Negative Space

What: Leaving generous empty space around the subject to give it power and suggest a state.

Why: Space isolates the subject and suggests solitude or stillness; clutter dissipates attention.

How: Let the subject occupy less than a third of the frame, leaving the rest as simple, intentional space.

Common mistake: Filling every corner of the frame for fear of 'emptiness'.

Exercise: Photograph a small subject in a frame dominated by space, and notice its emotional effect.