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Introduction

Character illustration is an art that goes beyond simple visual representation. Each illustration tells a story, transmits emotions and establishes connections with the viewer. In the world of illustration, composition plays a fundamental role in creating an effective visual narrative through different methods which can be (Color, Lighting, Messages to action, Brain-mathematical messages (Space-proportion) or Direct direction of the Character among many others).

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Composition refers to the organization of elements, such as characters, backgrounds, and small objects, for the purpose of constructing an image.

They evoke sensations and emotions in the viewer, and this is achieved when the arrangement of elements harmoniously fits the theme of the image.

Most common composition methods

In the composition of an image, there are various ways to incorporate Added Value. Among which are the following:

Contrast

Diagonal and Movement

Empty spaces

Visual Hierarchy

Undetermined limits

Lines and Shapes

Depth and Perspective

Golden Ratios

Rule of Thirds

Symmetry

Triangular

Each of the methods can be recreated with ease.

 

 

Below I will provide a brief example for each method.

Contrast

Contrasts of color, value (lights and shadows) and texture are used to direct attention and highlight key elements, for example; (Characters, objects, animals, etc.).

In what situation would it be appropriate to use it?

Contrast is used to highlight key points and make information easier to digest, highlight areas of interest, and establish differences in tone, color, and texture. As seen in the reference image, even when it is larger (the image on the right side), the point of interest does not change.

Diagonal and Movement

Elements are placed diagonally or curved to create a feeling of movement and dynamism in the composition. (It is an easy way to give a feeling of movement)

In what situation would it be appropriate to use it?

 

 

It is used when seeking to convey a feeling of dynamism, action or instability in an image. By placing elements diagonally, a visual effect is achieved that suggests movement, energy or tension in the scene. Therefore;

As can be seen in the images above, when the figure is arranged frontally in relation to the viewer, the illustration projects a feeling of stability and serenity. In contrast, by positioning the figure diagonally, an effect of instability is created that translates into a perception of movement.

Empty spaces

Empty spaces are used to generate interest in the visible character or object.

In what situation would it be appropriate to use it?

When we create an empty or open space in a composition, we instinctively direct the viewer's gaze from the character to that space, producing an impression of spaciousness. Depending on our intentions, we can choose to leave the space blank or incorporate a landscape or a specific design in said space. It is normal to see blank spaces in manga or webcomics, for example.

Visual Hierarchy

A main element or focal point is used in the illustration, usually using contrast in size, color or detail. (As you can see in the image, the color defines the hierarchy of the composition in this case).

In what situations would it be appropriate to use it?

It is used to guide the viewer's attention to specific elements so that some stand out more than others.

This is achieved through the use of contrast in terms of size, color, position or visual emphasis. (As can be seen in the second image, the body becomes the main focal point, while the hand takes on a secondary focal point role.)

(It is also possible to achieve this by directing the character's gaze toward a particular object. This way, the viewer will first focus on the character and then naturally move toward the object of interest. When executed properly, This technique is usually highly effective in visual composition. (this is the example I had on hand)

Indeterminate limits

An indeterminate limit is used to generate a feeling of emptiness and interest in the viewer. (An image is cut)

In what situation would it be appropriate to use it?

When we extend the drawing beyond the limits of the canvas, we achieve a visual effect that gives the impression that the image is larger compared to when it was completely contained within the limits.

Additionally, by extending the drawing beyond the edges, we encourage curiosity in the viewer, as they will be intrigued by what could be found beyond the visible part of the image.

Think about it this way, you are calmly sitting on your couch while watching a series and suddenly the episode ends in the most shocking scene, it is the famous cliffhanger ("suspense ending").

Lines and Shapes

Lines, shapes and patterns are used in the composition to guide the viewer's gaze or emphasize certain elements.

In what situation would it be appropriate to use it?

To direct the viewer's attention or highlight specific elements, there are two effective and simple approaches. One of them is the use of arrows that indicate the direction of interest. The other option is to establish a pattern, whether visible or implicit, that serves the same purpose of guiding the viewer's gaze.

Depth and Perspective

Perspective is used to give a sense of depth to the image, which can make characters stand out and relate to their surroundings.

This technique is achieved by adjusting the scale, position and focus of visual elements to create a sense of depth, which can make the image more realistic and immersive.

In what situations would it be appropriate to use it?

It is used when you want to give the sensation that the objects in the image have depth and are located at different distances from the viewer.

(For example, in the image above, the perspective was changed and the images were resized. Additionally, a table and a perspective ruler were incorporated in order to create a sense of depth in the composition.)

 

 

In the second image, an illustration was created from scratch, with the purpose of facilitating a better understanding for the viewer.

Golden Ratios

The golden ratio or golden number (can be found on the internet) is applied in the arrangement of elements to achieve a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing composition (basically it is drawing following the golden guide). where the focus of attention is located at the end of the spiral.

In what situations would it be appropriate to use it?

It is applied when you want to create balanced and attractive proportions in the arrangement of objects, shapes or spaces in a composition. In this case I apply it to the image.

Rule of Thirds

You divide the image into a 3x3 grid, and then place key elements along the dividing lines or at the intersection points. This creates visual balance and often draws the viewer's attention to the focal point. (It is often used in animation for example)

In what situation would it be appropriate to use it?

This technique is used when you want to create a balanced and visually interesting composition by placing key elements along the dividing lines or at the intersection points of the grid, for example (I will hide the ruler and add another character and you will notice that some of They stand out more than others)

Symmetry

Elements are placed symmetrically in the image, which can lead to a feeling of balance and harmony.

In what situation would it be appropriate to use it?

It is used when seeking to create a feeling of balance and harmony in the image. so that the left and right sides of the composition are virtually equal, often resulting in a visually attractive and serene composition.

Triangular

involves the arrangement of triangle-shaped elements within an image to create points of interest and visual fluidity. (Not to be confused with drawing a triangle on the image) First, the triangle is drawn, which will serve as a guide for the composition.

In what situation would it be appropriate to use it?

This technique is used when looking for a dynamic and attractive design, as triangles often generate a visual effect that suggests movement, energy and balance in the image. It is often seen in close-ups (in anime), perspective shots, and full-body shots, among others.

END

This concludes the tutorial. Although a single method has not been explicitly provided (which would basically be displaying as a drawing using the variables), the information necessary to achieve an effective layout in the composition you are creating has been shared. I encourage you to experiment by combining several of the variables presented in this tutorial to obtain creative and personalized results.