Juxtaposition - using contrast to tell visual stories
Some photos make you stop and think—not because of what’s shown, but because of how things relate. That’s the power of juxtaposition: placing two contrasting elements side by side to highlight their differences and create meaning.
Juxtaposition is a visual storytelling tool. It invites your viewer to interpret, compare, or connect seemingly unrelated subjects. For smartphone photographers, it’s one of the most thought-provoking ways to add depth and emotion to an image.
What is juxtaposition?
Juxtaposition is the deliberate placement of opposing elements within a photo. It could be visual (light vs. dark), thematic (youth vs. age), spatial (small next to large), or even emotional (joy vs. sorrow).
Here are a few common types:
Old vs new: A modern skyscraper beside an old brick wall.
Natural vs artificial: A bird perched on a power line.
Large vs small: A towering tree next to a tiny human figure.
Emotion vs context: A smiling child in a war-torn street.
These combinations spark interest and invite viewers to look more deeply.
How to find and shoot juxtaposition
Train your eye
Look for visual contrast in your everyday environment. Street photography is full of surprising pairings.Use a strong frame
Juxtaposition works best when both subjects are clearly visible and intentionally placed.Consider framing and distance
You might need to step back or wait for a subject (like a person) to move into place next to your contrasting element.Use light to your advantage
Highlight one element while casting the other in shadow to emphasize contrast.
When juxtaposition works best
Juxtaposition is most effective when:
the contrast is meaningful or emotional, not just visual.
it adds to the story or creates irony.
it makes the viewer think or feel something unexpected.
You don’t need words - just smart placement of opposites in the same frame.
Examples for smartphone photographers
A fancy car parked next to a rusty bike.
A child holding hands with an elderly person.
A sleek digital ad above a homeless person on the street.
A flower blooming through a crack in concrete.
These moments don’t always last—be ready to capture them when they appear.
Did you know?
Juxtaposition has roots in surrealist art. Artists like René Magritte placed unrelated objects together to challenge viewers’ perception. In photojournalism, juxtaposition became a powerful way to make political or social statements - telling complex stories in a single frame.
Tips to improve juxtaposition
Use minimalism to isolate the contrasting subjects.
Shoot from lower or higher angles to control their size relationship.
Apply black and white to emphasize tone and texture contrasts.
Include leading lines to connect both elements visually.
Common mistakes
Including contrast that’s too subtle to be understood.
Overloading the frame so the meaning gets lost.
Relying only on coincidence instead of composing intentionally.
Juxtaposition works best when it’s purposeful and clear.
Related techniques
Isolation
Minimalism
Off-centre composition
Conclusion
Juxtaposition turns ordinary scenes into powerful statements. It teaches you to look beyond what things are - and see how they relate. With just your smartphone and a sharp eye, you can create thoughtful, layered images that spark curiosity and emotion.
📘 This technique and over 100 other techniques and tips are covered in the book Stronger Photo Composition 4-Step System, where you’ll learn how to spot, frame, and compose with intention.
