Is symmetry something to be desired in an image? Opinion appears to be divided.
If measure and symmetry are absent from any composition in any degree, ruin awaits both the ingredients and the composition… Measure and symmetry are beauty and virtue the world over.
Socrates
Consistency is the enemy of enterprise, just as symmetry is the enemy of art.
George Bernard Shaw
I think I am more drawn to Shaw’s opinion than to that of Socrates. While I sometimes enjoy the harmony of a perfectly symmetrical shot, on the whole I find the asymmetrical more interesting. An image that is off-centre is more dynamic and encourages the eye to explore rather than settling in one spot. The most obvious exemplification of this is in the classic rule of thirds. Although it may seem counter-intuitive, placing the main subject at the intersection of imaginary lines dividing the image into thirds draws attention to it more effectively than placing it in the centre.
My feature image of a traditional Malagasy fishing boat was taken from Baobab Beach on Madagascar’s north west coast just a few days ago. It is an example of ‘rule of thirds’ composition at its simplest. The balance or harmony of the shot comes not from symmetry but from the fact that the boat is travelling into the frame. In contrast, if a moving subject is seen to be exiting the frame it creates a tension as the viewer doesn’t know or see where it is heading.
And it is to Madagascar that I’ve turned for all of these examples of asymmetry, in response to Donna’s Lens Artists challenge. This is partly to make my life easier! As I’m just back from that trip and busy sorting all my photos, it made sense to draw on them rather than hunt through the archives. But it also ensures that none of these shots will have been seen before in this blog, although I can’t promise that you won’t see them again in the future!
Shell on Baobab Beach on Madagascar’s north west coast
This is another classic ‘rule of thirds’ composition. Also, unlike many shells, this one is itself asymmetric in shape and in the patterns created by colour and lines.
Also on Baobab Beach
This little crab with its single enlarged red claw is certainly asymmetrical. But unlike the shell shot above which makes use of negative space to provide a sense of calm, this shot was taken near a small river that spills on to the beach at one end. It is consequently is busy with leaves, small stones and a twig. The latter provides balance, its diagonal line echoing the angle of the crab.
Still on Baobab Beach
Two small trees side by side could produce a very symmetrical shot. But this pair are so different from each other that I reckon this qualifies as asymmetrical.
Fishing boat off the coast at Diego Suarez / Antsiranana
I couldn’t resist including a second shot of a traditional Malagasy fishing boat. This one was off the coast at Diego Suarez (official name Antsiranana). In addition to the rule of thirds composition, the triangular sail introduces another touch of asymmetry.
Frangipani flowers in the gardens of our hotel in Diego Suarez
The flowers’ five petals make each one an example of asymmetry. Meanwhile, placing them diagonally in the frame ensures a balanced but far from symmetrical composition.
In Montagne d’Ambre National Park
Among all the more dramatic sites such as lemurs and chameleons, the understated colours of this lichen ‘heart’ caught my eye. With one side rather larger than the other, and drawn by nature rather than man, it lacks the symmetry of a stylised heart shape 🤍
Tsingy formations, Tsingy Est, Ankarana
The jagged limestone formations known as tsingy are far from symmetrical. But seeing them in the harsh late morning light meant that I needed the splash of colour from this tree to draw attention to the layers of rock that create this landscape.
Baobab tree, French Mountain, Diego Suarez / Antsiranana
But there’s no mistaking the lack of symmetry in this tree. I liked the way the large branch on the left echoes the diagonal of the hillside scrub, providing balance to the shot.
River scene, Andilobe
The Malagasy people use their rivers for all their water needs. This shot, taken from a bridge over this partly dried-up river, has several elements that can be seen as asymmetrical. The woman is placed at one of the four ‘rule of thirds’ positions, while the girl is close to the diagonally opposed one. There is also contrast in their activities. The woman is washing clothes and the girl herself. Finally, they are facing in opposing directions, away from each other, creating tension in the shot. Yet overall the scene appears balanced, unified by the flow of the river.
In a small town in Madagascar
I grabbed this shot from the car as we passed, my attention caught by the slogan on the man’s t-shirt. I was going to crop out the lad on the right but later realised he provides an interesting counter-balance to the man. While both are dressed in red, he is seated rather than standing. And he has a more open expression, curious about this passing tourist with camera!
I visited Madagascar in October/November 2023
55 Comments
bluebrightly
You put a lot of thought into your posts, which I admire. I’m with you on the quotes but of course, there are always exceptions to the rule. But most of the time, asymmetry seems to keep things moving and alive. There are the lovely Frangipani flowers again! Who could resist them? I like then in color AND black and white. It’s good to see photos of people, too.
Sarah Wilkie
Thank you again. I enjoy these lens artists challenges because they make me think about what works well in my photos and where I could improve 😀 I agree about the frangipani flowers, they’re very stylish in both colour and B & W
SoyBend
The fishing boat photo looked so serene. I liked the impressive structure of the baobab tree. Gorgeous!
Sarah Wilkie
Thank you Siobhan – for this and for all your recent visits and comments. Much appreciated 😀
rkrontheroad
They are all excellent shots! from a place I don’t expect to ever see, so even more interesting to me.
Sarah Wilkie
Thanks Ruth, I’m glad you found them so interesting 🙂 You will see much more of Madagascar here on my blog, I promise you 😆
pattimoed
What an intriguing collection, Sarah, in a less-traveled place. Fascinating. I especially love your “people” shots…stunning candids.
Sarah Wilkie
Thank you Patti 🙂 Like most visitors to Madagascar we went primarily for the wildlife but we wanted to see something of local culture and lifestyle too, so I’m glad you liked the people shots.
photobyjohnbo
Great collection, Sarah! My favorite is the fishing boat image!
Sarah Wilkie
Thank you John, glad you liked them 🙂
Sofia Alves
Fantastic photos, as always Sarah, but nothing beats that first photo. Magical.
Sarah Wilkie
Thanks so much Sofia 😊
Tina Schell
Terrific to have a chance to use your most recent images so perfectly Sarah. I loved the closing capture especially and am so happy you left the young man/boy in the image! Also loved the baobab tree – I have yet to see one of those in person.
Sarah Wilkie
Yes, I enjoyed the opportunity to share a few images from the trip so soon after my return! I’m glad you (and others) agree that the young man helps balance the shot 🙂 Baobab trees are amazing, I hope you get to see some one day!
grandmisadventures
I’m torn between a love of symmetry and and interest in asymmetry. I always feel that asymmetry provides more focus and thought. And your pictures definitely give that in lovely ways 🙂
Sarah Wilkie
Thank you – it’s interesting that you love symmetry but see the impact asymmetry can have. I am sometimes drawn to symmetry, I like the simplicity it often brings to an image. But in the end I think I prefer the dynamism of asymmetry 😀
Amy
Wonderful photo selections, Sarah! Love the Tsingy formations. The Baobab Beach is my favorite. 🙂
Sarah Wilkie
Thank you Amy, so glad you liked these!
thehungrytravellers.blog
Great shots, as always, Sarah. But this time I’ll concentrate on the quotes. In a similar vein of lack of consistency, an old boss of mine had a plaque on his office wall which read….”Genius is unpredictable. Only the mediocre are good all the time”…
Sarah Wilkie
Haha 😀
JohnRH
Love the two different trees and the Tsingy rocks in particular. Excellent as always.
Sarah Wilkie
Thank you John 🙂
Wetravelhappy
The feature photo blew me away – blue on blue on blue. You’re such a gifted photographer and storyteller and I’m sure I’ve mentioned that to you several times now Sarah, hahah. But really, so many beautiful photos here. And yeah symmetry can be very beautiful like Socrates pointed out but so are asymmetric ones, especially when coupled with a story. 🙂
Sarah Wilkie
Aw, thank you so much 😊 The colours of the sea there were amazing, but I confess that one is edited to bring out the colours even more!
Rose
So many gorgeous asymmetrical shots! Loved the ‘heart’, the baobab tree, and the flowers. Curious, did the flowers smell as gorgeous as they looked?
Sarah Wilkie
Thank you Rose 😊 Yes, those frangipani flowers smelled gorgeous!
Christie
Symmetrical or not, I love all your photos🙂 But I’m with you, asymmetrical photos look much better!
Have a lovely day!
Sarah Wilkie
Thank you Christie, so glad you like them 🙂
restlessjo
I really like the tree against the tsingys, and the boats, of course.
Sarah Wilkie
Thank you Jo 😊 That tsingy shot, and others like it, will no doubt feature in a Monday Walk one day soon. It was quite an effort to get to that spot with my poorly leg!
restlessjo
🤔🩷
JohnRH.
Excellent. I like the two different trees cohabitating the same area, a lesson to us all. Tsingy rock and plant are a fave too. I also like how casually dressed are the polizei in Madagascar. Superb.
Sarah Wilkie
Thank you John – that’s a great point about the two trees 🙂 And the ‘policeman’ too 😁
Egídio
Seek and you shall find! These are amazing photos, from the opening photo to the last one. I really liked your gallery, Sarah.
Sarah Wilkie
Thank you so much, I really appreciate that feedback 😊
Wind Kisses
Always a treat to see not just your photos but where you have traveled, Sarah. I agree with you regarding asymmetry. Encouraging the eye to wander. Your photos do that every week. Lol. Always a fun wander. I love the fishing boat and the trees were a unique grab. I love the greenery set so naturally in the rock, and like you. I love the last photos. There is definitely lots to study in that one. The expressions, the shirt. the color, and the hat says “police” another funny element. Enjoy your travels with you…so much.
Sarah Wilkie
Aw, thank you Donna 😊 I’m glad you liked the photos and this glimpse of Madagascar. Funnily enough I’d not noticed the guy’s hat, I was so focussed on the t-shirt and the contrast with his face which certainly doesn’t seem to be cheering!
Wind Kisses
It was a great photo, definitely better with the guy on the right in it.
Sarah Wilkie
Thank you for confirming my instincts on that 😀
Monkey's Tale
Great examples a of asymmetry, but even more a lovely tour of Madagascar. A country high on my list. Maggie
Sarah Wilkie
Thank you Maggie – I’m sure you would love Madagascar!
Mike and Kellye Hefner
Fantastic shots, Sarah, with the bonus of your expertise! This is the perfect symmetry post, and I can’t wait to see more of your trip to Madagascar.
Sarah Wilkie
Thanks so much Kellye 😊 As I’ve said to others below, you will for sure see more of Madagascar!
Anne Sandler
Amazing post Sarah. Loved your photography and narratives. You do have asymmetry down pat!
Sarah Wilkie
Thanks so much Anne, I appreciate that feedback 🙂
Smitha V
A wonderfully informative post, Sarah. Thank you for explaining each picture. It helped me understand how to take better photographs and why these pictures appeal to the eye.
Sarah Wilkie
Thank you Smitha, I’m really pleased you found this so informative 🙂 I’m no expert but I’ve taken a lot of photos over the years and challenges like this prompt me to consider why some work better than others!
Smitha V
This was a learning post for me,Sarah. I came out a little wiser after reading it🙂. I paint, and the ‘rule of thirds’ is important while deciding on where to place the subject. Your photographs helped me see why.
Anita
Interesting to read about how you think about symmetry and asymmetry. The images you chose for the theme are, as usual, excellent. The picture I like the most is the two trees which shows asymmetry so clearly and it’s beautiful in its simplicity. Although I also really like your photo of the woman and child by the river as well how you describe the asymmetry in that particular image. A great post for this weeks theme and I would love to see more from Madagascar.
Sarah Wilkie
Thank you for this thoughtful response Anita. I’m always interested to hear which photos particularly appeal to people. And don’t worry, you will certainly see more from Madagascar!
satyam rastogi
Nice post 🖊️
Sarah Wilkie
Thank you
margaret21
If these photos are a foretaste of what you’re going to show us from your holiday, I can’t wait. Your beach shots – as well as the others – are certainly enticing.
Sarah Wilkie
You may be sick of Madagascar by the time I’ve finished! We spent the last few days on that beach, at a lovely low-key glamping style lodge 🙂
margaret21
Try us … we’ll see … Sick with jealousy maybe.