When most people think of balance in photography, they imagine symmetry - mirrored reflections, matching sides, and centered subjects. But there’s another kind of balance that’s more flexible, more creative, and often more visually interesting: asymmetrical balance.

Asymmetrical balance happens when different elements in the frame hold equal visual weight, even if they’re not the same size or shape. It’s a composition technique that feels natural, dynamic, and human - and it’s especially powerful for smartphone photographers looking to move beyond rigid or predictable framing.

What is asymmetrical balance?

Asymmetrical balance is a type of visual equilibrium where two or more unequal elements balance each other out based on size, brightness, color, placement... and even space! It’s not about matching, but about offsetting - using a smaller object to balance a larger one, or a dark shadow to counter a bright subject.

Think of it like a see-saw. A big person on one end can be balanced by two smaller people on the other. In a photo, one subject might be visually “heavier,” but placing a contrasting or complementary element on the other side of the frame can restore harmony.

Why it works

Feels more natural: The real world isn’t always symmetrical — asymmetry reflects what we see every day.
Encourages exploration: Viewers’ eyes travel across the frame, creating a visual flow between elements.
Adds tension and movement: Unlike symmetry, which is calming and still, asymmetrical balance is more dynamic and adds energy.

How to create asymmetrical balance on your smartphone

Place your main subject off-centre
Use the rule of thirds to position your subject toward one side. Then, balance it with an element on the other side — smaller, darker, lighter, or more detailed.
Balance visual weight
A bright object can balance a large shadow. A person in the distance can balance a larger object nearby. Think in terms of “what catches the eye,” not just size.
Use negative space
Empty space can balance a subject by giving it room to breathe. A single tree in a vast field can feel perfectly balanced.
Think in diagonals
Placing one element in the lower left and another in the upper right can create a diagonal balance that feels dynamic.
Play with color and texture
A bold color or detailed texture can carry as much weight as a large shape. Use visual contrast to your advantage.

Examples of asymmetrical balance in action

A person standing on the right side of the frame, balanced by a bright sky or architectural detail on the left.
A small red flower on one side, counterbalanced by a blurred background with complementary tones.
A bird on a branch on one side, with empty space or clouds on the other to create breathing room.

When to use it

In street or travel photography with naturally uneven scenes
When you want to tell a story with multiple elements
When symmetry feels too formal or rigid

When to avoid it

In high-formality or architectural shots where symmetry is expected
When you don’t have enough control over subject placement to balance visually
If your scene already feels chaotic - asymmetry could add confusion

Did you know?

The principle of asymmetrical balance is deeply rooted in Japanese aesthetics, particularly the concept of wabi-sabi - the appreciation of imperfect, incomplete beauty. It’s also a central idea in modern design and art photography, used by pioneers like Henri Cartier-Bresson and Ernst Haas to compose scenes that feel spontaneous yet balanced.

Tips to improve your asymmetrical shots

Flip your phone: Horizontally flip the frame after shooting to check if the balance still feels right.
Simplify: Too many elements make asymmetry confusing - stick to two or three.
Use shadows and reflections: These are great tools for balancing without cluttering.
Train your eye: After taking a shot, pause and ask yourself where your eye lands first, second, and third - adjust as needed.

Common mistakes

Misjudging visual weight - a small but bright element can outshine a larger one.
Including too many competing subjects.
Leaving one side too empty without a balancing element.
Placing all your weight on one side - the frame feels like it tips over.

With practice, you’ll develop a natural feel for when a photo feels balanced - even when it looks uneven.

Related techniques

Use the search bar above to search for any composition technique, including the below:

Off-centre composition
Negative space
Juxtaposition

Conclusion

Asymmetrical balance is a powerful way to create dynamic, thoughtful compositions without relying on perfect symmetry. It challenges you to think beyond “centered and even” - and helps you craft photos that feel more real, more creative, and more visually engaging.

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Asymmetrical balance — how to create harmony without symmetry