It refers to feeling of visual weight or equality of the composition.

Balance can be achieved in three different ways - through symmetry, asymmetry and radial.

• Symmetry - When both sides of the composition have the same elements balanced around an axis - It evokes the feeling of stiffness or formality in the composition. It is good to give a formal emotion to a composition but it is mostly static and boring.


Symmetrical balance is achieved when both the elements balance along an imaginary axis.


Symmetrical balance achieved in the real world.
Image credits - Pixabay.

• Asymmetrical Balance - Here the visual balance is achieved by unequal visual weights in the composition - it can be created by contrasting elements, by manipulating the scale and proportion of the elements. they are similar in visual weights but are not mirrored.


Asymmetrical balance, is achieved when we balance the elements along an imaginary axis utilizing the features of the object. In the example above, the black box of smaller size on the right side is balanced by a bigger box with a slight value difference on the left side. Both of them together achieve balance in the picture.

Asymmetrical balance is more interesting and dynamic than symmetrical balance. It offers more visual variety and keeps the interest in the scene alive.


Asymmetrical balance achieved in the real world.
Image credits - Pixabay.

• Radial Balance - It is achieved when elements in the composition radiate outwards or towards from a common centre. Eg. ripples in a pond etc.


A perfect example of radial balance - Ripples.
Image credits - Pixabay


Radial balance exists almost everywhere in nature. This is an example of a palm leaf radiating outwards.
Image credits - Pixabay.