Breaking the rule of space As discussed in Chapter 4, the rule of space calls for position- ing the main subject opposite the largest portion of the frame. The idea behind the rule is to pro- vide more space in front of your subject and less space behind it. This arrangement influences a composition's directional flow, leaving the subject room for its implied motion toward the larger portion of the frame. And it seeks to create harmoni- ous spatial relationships among compositional elements and the edges of the frame. Ignoring the rule reverses those spatial allowances in front and behind the subject. The arrange- ment of elements leaves less "active" space in the leading direction, emphasizing where the subject has been rather than where it's going. Diminished "nose room" builds spatial tension between the subject and the edge of the frame, an intrigu- ing effect if there's something interesting for the eye to explore behind the subject. Opening up more room behind the subject also allows you to bring additional context to the subject, so be sure the elements filling this area of your composi- tion are compatible with the theme of your photograph. Discordant or conflicting objects occupying this space may inject more intrigue and drama into the story of your photograph, but they also may have the potential to muddle the message if the juxtaposition con- fuses the viewer. Beware of each object's influence on the overall story you're attempting to tell. Ignoring the rule of space creates spatial allowances behind the subject. Placement of elements allowing a small amount of "active" space in the subject's leading direction emphasizes where the subject has been rather than where it's going. 110 Focus On Composing Photos