The leading line composition method adds unique charm to photographing people. When we use this technique to photograph people, it’s crucial to choose the right leading lines.

Natural elements are often excellent choices for leading lines. For example, in a golden wheat field, the lines formed by the undulating wheat waves as the wind blows can start from the bottom edge of the picture and extend gently upward until they reach the person in the center of the picture. The person stands at the intersection of these wheat waves or strolls among them. The viewer’s eyes will follow the rhythm of the wheat waves and focus on the person, while also feeling the leisurely and comfortable pastoral life. At this time, the wheat waves, as leading lines, not only enhance the layering of the picture but also set off the beautiful artistic conception of the person integrating into nature.

The lines in man-made environments should not be underestimated either. The gaps between the bricks and stones of an ancient city wall, if starting from one side of the picture and extending regularly into the distance, and the person happens to be sitting at the corner of the wall, looking into the distance. Such a composition will make the lines of the gaps in the city wall become powerful guides, leading the viewer deep into the picture to explore the inner world of the person, and also highlighting the historical charm and the sense of story of the person under the precipitation of years.

Light and shadow can also create leading lines. In the early morning or at dusk, the rays of light formed by the slanting sunlight shine through the woods, casting beams of light. Let the person stand where the light beams converge. The light is like bright threads, shuttling from all corners of the picture and converging on the main subject of the person. These light and shadow lines not only have a strong visual attraction but also endow the picture with a dreamy and sacred atmosphere. The person in it is like being crowned by the light of nature and becomes the brightest focus in the picture.

When using leading lines to photograph people, it’s necessary to fully consider the relationship between the direction, shape of the lines and the person, ensuring that the leading lines can naturally and smoothly lead the viewer’s eyes to the person, so that each photo becomes a visual masterpiece with the perfect integration of the person and the environment, telling unique stories and showing endless charm and emotional tension.