Bad Video Composition…. But Is It Really?

When it comes to video composition, there is certainly such a thing as bad headroom, bad framing, bad lighting etc. But sometimes this is done on purpose. When I first watched “The King’s Speech,” the deliberate use of ‘bad headroom’ in a scene’s composition stood out. This framing raised intriguing questions about using framing as a narrative tool. How does ‘bad framing’ contribute to storytelling, and what is its purpose?

It inspired this blog to take a deep exploration into visual composition and its critical role in storytelling across various art forms.

Video Composition and Storytelling

Since ancient times, illustrations have told stories through single, silent images. Photography, similar to illustration, relies on principles of composition but adds the manipulation of light and lens. In video and film, composition works alongside sound to enhance the narrative. Initially, silent films used subtitles and live music to convey mood, showing the power of visual storytelling. Understanding composition is vital for videographers aiming to tell compelling stories. It involves arranging visual elements within the frame to guide the viewer’s eye and support the narrative. Effective composition can evoke emotions, highlight important aspects of the story, and create a visual rhythm that enhances the viewer’s experience.

Composition in visual media controls the information the audience receives.  This blog explores various compositional elements, their narrative support, and creation methods. By focusing solely on visual elements, it demonstrates the importance of camera composition in storytelling.

The Golden Ratio

The Golden Ratio, denoted by phi (1.6180339887:1), is a mathematical formula for beauty observed in nature’s proportions, such as pinecones and starfish. It evokes aesthetic feelings and is commonly used in art as the Golden Rectangle. The Golden Spiral, derived from the Golden Rectangle, and the Fibonacci Series, a sequence of numbers, both appear frequently in nature and art, illustrating their universal appeal and application.

The Rule of Thirds

The Rule of Thirds, a guideline for placing the main focus within intersecting lines of a grid, creates balanced compositions. It’s easier to apply than the Golden Ratio, especially in photography. In addition to its use in static images, the Rule of Thirds can guide movement in video. For instance, if a subject is moving right, placing them along the left vertical line allows space for movement, creating a sense of direction and flow. This technique not only adds balance but also enhances the narrative tension and visual interest by preventing a static feel.

Symmetry

Symmetry is inherently attractive, found in both nature and human perception of beauty. Studies show that symmetry is universally favoured, with the Golden Ratio often present in human faces. The Marquardt Beauty Mask, based on the Golden Ratio, demonstrates this principle. Symmetry in video composition not only appeals to aesthetic preferences but also conveys balance and stability in the visual narrative. It can be used strategically to highlight harmony or deliberately disrupted to create a sense of unease, enhancing the emotional impact of the story.

Depth of Field

Depth of field controls the sharpness range in an image. A shallow depth of field isolates the subject, while a deep depth of field brings all elements into focus, providing more information to the viewer. Adjusting the F-Stop, focal length, and camera distance can manipulate depth of field to direct audience attention. Manipulating depth of field allows videographers to guide the audience’s focus and control the narrative emphasis. A shallow depth of field can create intimacy by isolating the subject, while a deep depth of field can provide context by keeping the entire scene in focus, enriching the viewer’s understanding of the story’s environment.

Breaking the Rules of Video Composition

While established rules of composition like the Rule of Thirds and symmetry provide a solid foundation, breaking these rules can yield powerful narrative and emotional effects. For instance, placing the subject off-center or in unconventional positions can create tension or draw attention to specific story elements. Similarly, using an asymmetrical composition can highlight chaos or disorientation. Understanding when and how to break these rules thoughtfully can enhance storytelling by creating a unique visual language that resonates with the audience on a deeper level.

Video Composition Aspect Ratio

Aspect ratio, the ratio of frame width to height, influences compositional decisions. Different aspect ratios, such as Academy Flat (1.85:1) and Anamorphic Scope (2.35:1), affect the dynamic impact and natural perception of the video. Knowing the shooting and final format is crucial for preserving compositional choices.

The 9:16 Aspect Ratio

The 9:16 aspect ratio, commonly used for vertical video, has become increasingly popular with the rise of mobile content consumption. This format is particularly effective for platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat, which are designed for vertical viewing on smartphones.

Historical Context and Popularity

Traditionally, video content was produced in landscape formats such as 16:9, but the proliferation of smartphones and social media has shifted viewing habits. The vertical format is more natural for mobile users, who hold their devices upright. This change has led content creators and videographers to adapt their techniques to suit this new aspect ratio.

Challenges and Opportunities

Shooting in 9:16 presents unique challenges and opportunities. The limited width requires creative framing to ensure important elements are within the narrow field of view. Close-ups and single subjects work well in this format, making it ideal for personal vlogs, interviews, and focused storytelling.

On the other hand, wide shots and group scenes require innovative approaches to composition. Videographers must rethink traditional methods to make the most of the vertical space, often using height and depth creatively.

Video Composition Conclusion

In conclusion, mastering visual composition is essential for videographers aiming to create impactful and engaging narratives. By understanding and applying principles such as the Golden Ratio, symmetry, the Rule of Thirds, and depth of field, videographers can craft visually compelling stories that resonate with audiences. Video composition should always be integrated within the broader context of the narrative. It’s not just a standalone element; the entire story hinges on how well the visuals complement the plot. Video composition is a tool for videographers to enhance the story visually, ensuring the narrative is coherent and engaging. Without thoughtful composition, a film can lose its impact, becoming more like a stage play—strong in acting, perhaps, but lacking the immersive power that camera work provides when used effectively. The synergy between acting, set design, sound, and composition is crucial for a truly compelling narrative.