Balance Definition
A balanced piece feels stable and aesthetically pleasing. No area of the composition draws your attention so much that you can’t see the other areas.
Balance feels comfortable, unbalance feels uncomfortable. Generally, a balanced piece will always be preferable and more pleasing, unless you are specifically looking to generate discomfort or tension.
Visual Weight
Visual Weight is a measure of how much anything on the page attracts the eye of the viewer.
Visual Direction
Visual Direction is the perceived direction of a visual force. It’s the direction in which we think an element should be moving if it were given a chance to move according to the forces acting on it.
Symmetrical Balance
Equal weight on equal sides of the composition, balancing around an axis in the center. Symmetrical balance creates a feeling of formality (sometimes called formal balance) and elegance. It can also be static and dull if not carefully constructed.
Asymmetrical Balance
Unequal visual weight on each side of the composition. One major element or focal point is balanced by combinations of lesser elements. Asymmetrical balance is more modern, dynamic, energetic, and creates more visual variety.
Radial Balance
Everything operates around a center point, and draws attention to the center.
Mosaic Balance
Or Crystallographic balance, results from balanced chaos. No distinct focal points, or hierarchy.
Reflection Symmetry
Or bilateral symmetry, is reflection about a single axis. If the reflection is perfect, the symmetry is said to be pure. Otherwise, it is near symmetry.
Rotational Symmetry
Or radial symmetry, is when everything rotates around a common center.
Translational Symmetry
Symmetry achieved through repeating elements across space, like a line of Pokémon.
Asymmetry
Asymmetry is interesting because it creates complex relationships and hierarchies between objects. It feels more active and less predictable. Both symmetry and asymmetry can work well together.
Contour Bias
Contour bias is a tendency of humans to favor contours over sharp angles or points. When presented with sharp angles or points, the amygdala is activated, which governs fear. This is supposed to be a subconscious mechanism for detecting potential threats. The degree of amygdala activation is directly proportional to the angularity of the emotionally neutral objects in FMRI scans.
