Unorthodox Portrait Compositions

AVEDON X KIM

Inspired by the unconventional, unorthodox, compositions of Richard Avedon. Photos include nudity (NSFW).

I’m interested how Avedon makes these portraits which break all these compositional “rules”.

Some techniques he uses which I like:

Extreme negative space on the far right of the frame… when you have the subject placed on the far left, with a hand gesture.
Chin cut off, super close up square format photo.
Shot from low angle, with lots of fabric and materials in fashion clothes of model, makes her look like she’s floating.
Blur: Used to make subjects look in motion, alive, dynamic, and epic.
“unflattering” decisive moments in the faces of his subjects, which reveal their deeper soul.
Nudity: to make the subjects look sensual, without being “pornographic.” A look of strength and confidence in his subjects, who are posing as if they’re not naked.