Have you ever noticed that some of the most impactful images feature a contrast of some kind? Maybe it’s the use of contrasting colors or two elements that seem to oppose yet complement each other simultaneously. These images use an element of composition called juxtaposition; if you’re looking to create strong and compelling images, you’ll want to master this practice.
Juxtaposition is placing two or more objects or concepts close together to contrast them or create an interesting effect. For example, a photo showing a sunny, green field backed with a black, stormy sky juxtaposes both color and weather. Juxtaposition often occurs naturally in shots but can also be created by strategically staging the scene.
Knowing how to identify juxtaposition naturally will help you compose your images and take stronger photos. Using juxtaposition isn’t just about having contrasting elements in a photo; it’s also about the story those elements tell.
Let’s look at some examples of photos that use juxtaposition effectively.
The best way to learn about using juxtaposition is to see some examples of how it can be used. Here are photos where contrast is created in a variety of ways. Sometimes contrasting colors are used, while other times the subjects tell contradictory stories.
1. Modern versus old architecture. This photo uses the contrasting architectural styles of the buildings to create juxtaposition.
2. Contrasting concepts. This photo shows a contrast between the ancient stonework and the ultra-modern smartphone.
3. Death versus life. This photo not only has contrasting colors but contrasting subjects as well. The bright, vibrant flower is juxtaposed with the dead bloom.
4. Large versus small. The comparison between the looming, out-of-focus buildings in the background and the sharp, tiny bird in the center of the frame make a perfect juxtaposition of size.
5. Old versus young. This is a contrast that evokes emotion showing both the early stages of life and its later days.
6. Natural versus man-made. This composite image juxtaposes natural and man-made objects, combining them into one image.
7. Wealth versus poverty. A powerful juxtaposition often used for social commentary. It makes the viewer stop and think, evoking an emotional response.
Juxtaposition is all around. Learning how to see it and use it will help you to create images that are not only beautiful but powerful as well. Using contrasting elements can create images that tell stories and give more meaning to your photos.
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