“Leading lines are a compositional technique where human-made or natural lines lead the viewer’s eyes through a photograph to the subject or the heart of the image,” explains photographer Lukas Kosslow. “They can be very noticeable, or they can be quite subtle.” This compositional tool helps photographers direct the focus of the photo, create balance, and tell a story with the image.
Like the rule of thirds, leading lines are a compositional element that can be used across all kinds of photography, from portraits to landscape shots. Photographer Felipe Silva provides another useful leading lines definition. “Leading lines can be anything. They can be a road or a line of trees leading you somewhere. They can be people and repetitive objects, like railroad tracks.”
And while many photos may unintentionally contain lines that highlight a specific point of interest, intentional lines and compositions make for the strongest images. Whether you use bold straight lines or graceful curving ones, leading lines can elevate your composition and add a unique aesthetic to your photos.