perspective they do not always see (fig. 12-7). All of the qualities mentioned are a must for a news photographer striving for good photographic composition. Essentially, photographic composition is a harmonious   combination   of   a   main   subject   and   its supporting  elements.  This  means  you  must  be  able  to recognize these elements and then arrange them into the photograph that will tell your story. Learning the art  of  good  composition  is  similar to mastering any other skill. First you must understand the rudiments.  Then,  through  much  practice  and  attention, you   develop   your   talent   to   the   highest   degree   of perfection possible. In  the  early  stages  of  learning,  we  depend  almost exclusively on what we can see and hear, imitating what has   been   done   before.   Much   can   be   learned   about composition   by   studying   various   works   of   art   and collections  of  good  photographs.  Each  one  offers  an example of how to present a subject in an effective and interesting manner. By attempting to duplicate some of these photographs, you can acquire an understanding of the basic elements of composition. The  proper  placement  of  the  subject   within   the space  of  the  photograph  is  one  of  the  most  important elements of good composition. Whenever possible, you should select and arrange the subject elements, choosing the  viewpoint  and  lighting  conditions  that  present  the subject best. You also should arrange the subject in the photograph   in   such   a   way   as   to   clearly   and   pre- dominantly be the main point of interest. The main idea of the photograph should be recognizable immediately to anyone viewing your photograph. In  aiming  for  good  composition,  you  should  learn and use the following principles as guides: l Simplicity Point of interest Compositional lines Balance Forms Rhythm or pattern Tone Depth perception Action Security and safety considerations Your  awareness,  application  and  practice  of  these principles   when   composing   a   scene   will   assist   you greatly  in  making  an  interesting  presentation  of  your subject. SIMPLICITY Frequently,    the    simplest    arrangement    of    your subject  matter  makes  the  most  interesting  presentation. Although  each  photograph  consists  of  numerous  small parts  and  contributing  elements,  none  of  these  should appear  conspicuous  or  portray  more  interest  than  the main  object.  The  main  object  is  the  reason  for  making the  photograph  in  the  first  place;  all  other  elements should   merely   support   and   emphasize   it.   The   scene should  not  be  cluttered  with  a  confusing  number  of objects  and  lines  that  detract  from  the  subject.   You should  select  a  viewpoint  that  eliminates  surrounding distractions     so     the     principal     subject     is     readily recognized.  If  numerous  lines  or  shapes  are  competing for   interest   with   the   subject,   it   may   be   difficult   to recognize    the    main    object    or    determine    why    the photograph was made. Study the scene from all angles and decide exactly what  you  want  to  show;  then  strive  to  maintain  this single    idea    as    clearly    as    possible    by    eliminating unimportant or distracting elements from the photograph. Keeping the arrangement simple makes the job   of   composition   easier   and   the   photograph   more interesting. POINT OF INTEREST With   few   exceptions,   most   photographs   should have a single point of interest that tells the viewer this is the  reason  for  taking  the  photograph.  All  other  details support the point of interest. The point of interest is the point to which the eyes are drawn (fig. 12-8). If there is Figure 12-8.—The eyes of the viewer are drawn to the point of interest. 12-11